Matt Reeves Defends Paul Dano After Quentin Tarantino Criticizes Actor’s Performance

Key Points

• Quentin Tarantino called Paul Dano the “weakest actor in SAG” during a podcast appearance.
• Matt Reeves publicly defended Dano, praising him as “an incredible actor and an incredible person.”
• Industry figures including Ben Stiller, Alec Baldwin, and Mattson Tomlin voiced strong support for Dano.
• Tarantino’s remarks centered on Dano’s performance in There Will Be Blood.
• The backlash highlights Dano’s respected standing among filmmakers and actors.

Reeves Responds After Tarantino’s Harsh Remarks

The Batman director Matt Reeves has stepped forward to defend actor Paul Dano after Quentin Tarantino criticized him during an episode of The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast. Tarantino, while discussing his picks for the best films of the 21st century, singled out Dano’s performance in There Will Be Blood, calling him the “weakest actor” in the Screen Actors Guild.

The comments quickly sparked debate across social media and prompted an outpouring of support for Dano from colleagues throughout the industry.

Tarantino’s Critique

Tarantino argued that Dano’s portrayal in the 2007 film failed to match the intensity of Daniel Day‑Lewis’s performance, describing the casting as a misstep in an otherwise “exceptional” movie.

Among his most pointed remarks:

• “He is weak sauce, man. He is the weak sister.”
• “You put him with the weakest fucking actor in SAG?”

The statements drew immediate backlash from fans and fellow creatives who praised Dano’s body of work.

Reeves and Industry Peers Rally Behind Dano

Reeves, who directed Dano as the Riddler in The Batman, publicly defended the actor, calling him “an incredible actor and an incredible person.” Reeves’ endorsement was echoed by several other prominent voices.

Screenwriter Mattson Tomlin, involved in The Batman sequel, highlighted Dano’s versatility, noting that he is not only a gifted performer but also a talented filmmaker. Tomlin encouraged audiences to revisit Dano’s acclaimed directorial debut, Wildlife.

Additional support included:

• Ben Stiller, who called Dano “f‑ing brilliant.”
• Alec Baldwin, who shared a video praising Dano and expressing admiration for his work.

A Respected Career Speaks for Itself

Dano, known for acclaimed performances in films such as Little Miss Sunshine, Prisoners, and Love & Mercy, has long been regarded as one of Hollywood’s most nuanced and committed actors. The wave of support following Tarantino’s comments underscores the respect he commands among peers.

The debate also reignites broader conversations about artistic interpretation, performance style, and the subjectivity of criticism in filmmaking.

What Happens Next?

While Tarantino’s remarks continue to circulate online, industry support for Dano shows no signs of slowing. With The Batman sequel in development and Dano’s directing career gaining momentum, the actor’s trajectory remains strong. The conversation may continue, but Dano’s work—and the admiration it inspires—appears firmly intact.