Quentin Tarantino Sparks Controversy Claiming One Actor Spoiled There Will Be Blood

Quentin Tarantino has ignited controversy with his remarks about Paul Dano’s performance in the acclaimed film There Will Be Blood. Released in 2007 and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the film centers on the ambitious oil tycoon Daniel Plainview, portrayed by Daniel Day-Lewis, and his complicated relationship with preacher Eli Sunday, played by Dano.

Tarantino’s Strong Critique of Dano

During an appearance on The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, Tarantino, 62, described Dano’s role as a “giant flaw” in a film he otherwise considers one of the best of the 21st century. He expressed that the film would rank among his top choices were it not for Dano’s performance, stating, “The flaw is Paul Dano.” He elaborated that the film is intended to be a two-hander, but Dano’s acting fails to meet that expectation.

Comparisons with Austin Butler

Tarantino suggested that Austin Butler, who was only 16 when There Will Be Blood was filmed, would have been a better choice for the role of Eli Sunday. He criticized Dano’s performance as lacking substance, labeling him the “weakest f*ing actor in SAG” (Screen Actors Guild).

Reactions from Fans and Critics

Fans of Dano have come to his defense, with many defending his portrayal in There Will Be Blood. Dano not only played Eli Sunday but also his twin brother, Paul, demonstrating his range as an actor. Reactions on social media have been largely supportive of Dano. Some fans argue that he delivered a standout performance opposite Day-Lewis, labeled a cinematic legend.

• “Tarantino’s statement on Paul Dano is wrong on so many levels,” one user remarked on X (formerly Twitter).
• Another fan noted that “Paul was literally 22 YEARS OLD playing identical twins and he somehow manages to act on the same playing field as Daniel Day-Lewis.”

While opinions on Dano’s acting vary, There Will Be Blood remains an influential film, continuing to attract attention and debate. The movie is currently available for streaming on Paramount+ in the UK.