Paul Dano Responds to Quentin Tarantino’s Criticism: “Incredibly Grateful”

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Actor Paul Dano is now responding to comments made by Quentin Tarantino, calling him out with a strongly worded insult. According to Variety, Dano was asked about Tarantino’s remarks before a screening of Little Miss Sunshine, the film that helped launch his career. Before Dano could answer, his co-star Toni Collette interjected, angrily defending him and suggesting Tarantino must have been under the influence when he made the comments, calling the situation bizarre and unacceptable.

Dano shared with Variety that the support he received was wonderful and he appreciated the public rallying behind him, saving him from having to speak out himself.

In late 2025, Quentin Tarantino praised There Will Be Blood as one of his favorite movies, with one exception: Paul Dano’s performance. Tarantino stated, “The weak point is Paul Dano.” He explained that while the film was intended to focus equally on two lead actors, Dano’s performance made that balance uneven.

The director strongly criticized Dano’s performance, claiming he was no match for Daniel Day-Lewis, who he felt was carrying the film. He argued that the movie, intended as a showcase for two strong leads, was failing because Dano lacked the necessary strength as an actor. The director expressed extreme disappointment, suggesting Dano was significantly weaker than Day-Lewis and unfit to be his counterpart.

During a recent podcast, Quentin Tarantino sharply criticized actors Owen Wilson and Matthew Lillard, which sparked considerable backlash and immediate reactions. He later explained that making those comments was hurtful and regrettable, stating, “It really stings, it’s awful, and you definitely wouldn’t say something like that to a major star like Tom Cruise.”

While accepting an award, the speaker expressed their dislike of negativity towards actors. They specifically mentioned being eager to collaborate with Paul Dano, Owen Wilson, and Matthew Lillard, adding that it’s a cruel time and we shouldn’t contribute to it.

What’s Next for The Batman and Little Miss Sunshine Star Paul Dano?

Paul Dano is set to star in two movies next year. The first is a new crime comedy-drama from A24 called The Chaperones. Directed by India Donaldson and written by Sebastian Black, the film also features David Jonsson, Cooper Hoffman, Billy Barratt, Danielle Deadwyler, Gabby Beans, Dolly de Leon, Alfred Molina, and Saturday Night Live’s Tim Meadows.

Paul Dano is joining the cast of Florian Zeller’s new psychological thriller, Bunker. The movie centers on an architect whose life unravels while designing a large, mysterious bunker for a wealthy and unsettling client. He’ll be acting alongside Penélope Cruz, Javier Bardem, Stephen Graham, and Patrick Schwarzenegger in the film.

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2026-01-29 03:39