After director Quentin Tarantino criticized Paul Dano as “the weak sister” in his recent podcast speech, calling him “weak sauce” and “the lamest idiot in the world,” a wave of support came this week from Hollywood defending the actor’s talent and character.
Tarantino, when ranking his favorite films of the 21st century, placed there will be blood at number 5.
Despite praising the film overall, he did not hesitate to criticize Dano’s performance, saying that, in his opinion, the film “needs” a stronger foil than Dano.
But many strongly disagree. In X, comedian and filmmaker Ben Stiller wrote simply: “Paul Dano is fucking brilliant.”
Simu Liu, known for starring in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, added: “I don’t know, I think Paul Dano is an amazing actor.”
Support also came from behind the camera: Matt Reeves, director of the batman, praised Dano in X as “an incredible actor and an incredible person.”
Meanwhile, screenwriter Mattson Tomlin encouraged anyone who is skeptical to check out Dano’s work in Faunacalling him “a fantastic actor” and “an amazing director who exudes control and tremendous empathy.”
Dano’s work includes notable performances in films such as little miss sunshine, 12 years of slavery, The Fabelmansand his recent turn as the Riddler in the batman.
Despite Tarantino’s harsh criticism, the variety of voices coming to Dano’s defense this week suggests that many believe his reputation and reach speak louder than any negative comments.
