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Hollywood’s elite have come together in support of “The Batman” actor Paul Dano after Quentin Tarantino criticized his acting skills in a recent podcast tirade.
During a new installment of “The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast,” Tarantino shared his thoughts on the finest films of the 21st century, placing “There Will Be Blood” at the fifth spot on his list.
Taking the top four positions were “Dunkirk,” “Lost in Translation,” “Toy Story 3,” and “Black Hawk Down.”
While Tarantino acknowledged the acclaim of the Paul Thomas Anderson-directed film, featuring Daniel Day-Lewis, he delved into a detailed critique of why it didn’t rank higher, specifically targeting Dano’s portrayal as the film’s “major flaw.”
“[Dano] doesn’t stand out, man. He’s the weak link. [Daniel Day-Lewis] overshadows him completely. Austin Butler would have been excellent in that role. Dano just doesn’t have any strength or appeal. Day-Lewis demonstrates he doesn’t need a strong counterpart, but the movie does. You pair him with the weakest actor in SAG? The most ineffective performer imaginable?” Tarantino remarked.
Tarantino’s comments shocked cinephiles, given that Dano is a critically acclaimed actor who’s been nominated for two Emmys, a Golden Globe and a BAFTA. His most prominent work includes roles in “Little Miss Sunshine,” “12 Years a Slave,” Steven Spielberg’s “The Fablemans” and his memorable turn as the Riddler in the Robert Pattinson-led “The Batman.”
Following Tarantino’s tirade, Hollywood stars have defended Dano.
Ben Stiller posted on X, “Paul Dano is f-ing brilliant.”
“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” star Simu Liu wrote on X, “idk man i think paul dano is an incredible actor.”
“The Batman” director Matt Reeves also chimed in via X, “Paul Dano is an incredible actor, and an incredible person.”
Elsewhere in the DC universe, “The Batman Part II” screenwriter Mattson Tomlin wrote, “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.”
Dano also remains booked and busy: He’s next set to appear in the political thriller “The Wizard of the Kremlin” (which got raves at the Venice Film Festival), and A24’s “The Chaperones.”
Representatives for Tarantino and Dano did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.