Matthew Lillard expresses frustration over being involved in Paul Dano acting criticism by Quentin Tarantino: "It's terrible"

Paul Dano has not addressed Quentin Tarantinos recent podcast remarks in which the director labeled him the weakest male actor in SAG. However, another performer mentioned in the same episode has spoken up. Matthew Lillard whom Tarantino claimed he didnt care for during an appearance on The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast responded to the filmmakers comments while attending GalaxyCon Columbus.

In a TikTok video from the event, Lillard told fans, Quentin Tarantino said this week that he didnt like me as an actor, prompting loud boos from the crowd. He shrugged the reaction off, adding, Eh, whatever. Who cares.

The actor, known for Five Nights at Freddys, went on to say, The truth is, it stings. It fucking sucks. And he wouldnt say something like that about Tom Cruise. He wouldnt say that about someone at the very top of Hollywood.

Tarantinos comments about Dano came earlier in the week as he discussed his list of the best films of the 21st century. He placed Paul Thomas Andersons There Will Be Blood at No. 5, but argued it might have ranked higher if it didnt have a massive flaw.

And that flaw is Paul Dano, Tarantino said. Its supposed to be a two-hander, but its painfully clear that it isnt. Hes weak sauce. Hes a weak sister.

The director also added Lillard and Owen Wilson to the list of actors whose work he doesnt enjoy: Im not saying he gives a terrible performance. Im saying he gives a non-entity performance. I dont care for him. I dont care for Owen Wilson, I dont care for Matthew Lillard.

At GalaxyCon, Lillard addressed the comments once more: Im loved in this room. Im not loved in Hollywood. Two completely different worlds. And, honestly, it keeps you grounded but it does hurt.

Dano has yet to respond publicly, though director Matt Reeves expressed support for him on X, calling the actor an incredible talent and an incredible person.

Author: Maya Henderson