Matt Reeves Stands By Paul Dano After Tarantino’s Critique
Matt Reeves has spoken out in support of Paul Dano following Quentin Tarantino’s sharp remarks about Dano’s role in There Will Be Blood, as other Hollywood names rally behind the actor.
Matt Reeves, the director behind The Batman, has publicly backed Paul Dano after Quentin Tarantino delivered a scathing assessment of Dano’s performance in There Will Be Blood. Tarantino, appearing on The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, recently shared his top twenty films of the 21st century. When discussing his fifth pick, he offered both praise and pointed criticism.
While Tarantino lauded Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2007 drama, which features Daniel Day-Lewis as a relentless oilman, he did not hold back regarding Dano’s contribution.
“There Will Be Blood would stand a good chance at being one or two if it didn’t have a big, giant flaw in it … and the flaw is Paul Dano.”
Tarantino went on,
“He is weak sauce, man. He’s a weak sister. Austin Butler would have been wonderful in that role. [Dano is] just such a weak, weak, uninteresting guy. The weakest fucking actor in SAG [Screen Actors Guild].”
Hollywood Responds to Tarantino’s Remarks
The comments quickly sparked a wave of responses from within the industry. Reeves, who directed Dano as the Riddler in The Batman, was among the first to voice his support. On 4 December, he posted on social media,
“Paul Dano is an incredible actor, and an incredible person.”
Reeves and Dano previously collaborated on the much-talked-about superhero film, where Dano’s portrayal of the villain stood out alongside Robert Pattinson’s brooding lead.
Reeves was not alone in his defence. The screenwriter for The Batman sequel also weighed in, expressing appreciation for the groundswell of support Dano received.
“I am really pleased to see so many people cheer on Paul Dano this week. Not only is he a terrific actor, but he’s an astonishing director who exudes control and tremendous empathy. Check out ‘Wildlife’ if you haven’t seen it.”
Support from Industry Peers
Ben Stiller, another prominent figure in the industry, also responded to the controversy. He kept his message brief but emphatic, writing online,
“Paul Dano is fucking brilliant.”
The actor himself has yet to address the situation publicly.
As the discussion continues, Dano’s colleagues and supporters have made it clear that they value his talent and contributions, both in front of and behind the camera. The original trailer for There Will Be Blood remains available for those wishing to revisit the performance at the centre of the debate.