Tarantino Calls Paul Dano the Weakest SAG-AFTRA Member; Batman 2 Writer Responds

Quentin Tarantino ignited a heated online discussion by criticizing Paul Dano's performance in the film There Will Be Blood. While praising the movie overall, the director described Dano as the weakest link among members of the U.S. actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA, a remark that drew swift responses from fans and peers.

What Tarantino said about the performance

Tarantino argued that the anticipated clash between two strong actors did not materialize. He described Dano’s portrayal as underpowered when compared to Daniel Day‑Lewis, suggesting the dynamic between the leads fell short of the mark and calling Dano’s performance less compelling than expected.

Tarantino stated that the duel between two star actors should have stood out, but in his view it did not. He described Dano as a weak element in the scene.

The comments quickly spread across social networks, prompting a flurry of reactions from Dano’s fans and colleagues alike.

Support from fellow filmmakers and actors

Mattson Tomlin, co‑writer of Batman 2, publicly defended Dano, calling him an extraordinary actor and a talented director. He urged audiences to watch Dano’s film Wildlife to appreciate his range.

Many people are showing support for Paul Dano this week. He is not only a superb actor but also a remarkable director with deep empathy. If you haven’t seen his film Wildlife, give it a watch.

Also weighing in was Dillon Friese, who acted in Oil. He dismissed the idea that another actor would have fit better, noting that Austin Butler would have been only 16 years old at the film’s release year, making a different casting choice unlikely.

Simu Liu, known for Barbie and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, joined the conversation with his own praise for Dano, saying he believes Dano is an outstanding actor.

Paul Dano is simply a phenomenal actor in my view.

Industry critique and what it means for casting

The Sunday Times critic Jamie Graham offered a different perspective, suggesting that Tarantino’s remarks were rooted in the idea that Dano’s measured performance amplified the film’s emotional impact. The piece argued that Dano’s vulnerability and restraint played a key role in shaping the character dynamics.

In a separate note, Tarantino had also weighed in on a separate controversy earlier in November, criticizing The Hunger Games for alleged similarities to Battle Royale.

Expert perspective

Film scholar Dr. Elena Park says Tarantino’s critique highlights how a restrained performance can intensify a scene when contrasted with a more electric lead. Dano’s strength lies in conveying inner tension with minimal display, which can heighten audience perception.

Short summary

The debate centers on Paul Dano’s portrayal in There Will Be Blood and whether Tarantino’s harsh words were a comment on acting style or a personal verdict. Dano’s supporters, including Mattson Tomlin and Simu Liu, emphasize his talent and directorial skill, while critics view the discussion as a reminder of how casting choices shape a film’s reception. The conversation also underscores how online discourse can amplify perceptions of strength and vulnerability in acting.

Key takeaway: A restrained, vulnerable moment can magnify contrasts in a film and spark ongoing debate among viewers and critics alike.