Looking over the recent Oscar nominations for Best Picture, one thing becomes clear: we want our films to make statements. Audiences yearn for suggestions of deeper meaning and symbolism in their movies. We like that "Brooklyn" examines the harsh choices immigrants are forced to make and that "The Martian" reminds us how connected we all are. We appreciate the reminder of corruption and immorality shown in "Spotlight" and the relatable loss in "The Revenant."
While stars have a right to speak out about important real life issues, they should remain informed and civilized when they do. They should encourage a dialogue rather than seek shock value with reckless and inflammatory comments.
As you're undoubtedly aware, director Quentin Tarantino had some harsh words for cops at a NYC rally protesting police brutality late last year, essentially calling all police officers "murderers." While the recent rise in police shootings is very concerning, Tarantino's sweeping generalization and uninformed arrogance rightfully angered law enforcement and film fans across the country. Now, his latest movie, "The Hateful Eight" is paying the price.
According to Variety, "The Hateful Eight" earned just $16.2 million in its wide release opening. While Tarantino has never been much of a mainstream filmmaker, that number marks his lowest output since 1997. Box Office Mojo projects the film to peter out somewhere around $50 million domestic. Considering the film's $50 million price tag (not including $25 - $35 million in marketing costs), it will go down as one of Tarantino's biggest busts. It just goes to show you that not even a two-time Academy Award winner is immune to justified public backlash.
"The Hateful Eight" is nowhere near as entertaining as "Inglorious Basterds" or as complete of a film as "Django Unchained," Tarantino's two most recent films. That simple fact has played into the movie's bombing. But Tarantino's misguided position on police officers certainly hasn't helped. Law enforcement agencies across the country have been boycotting "The Hateful Eight" throughout its release. Though they only represent a minority of filmgoers, their message has reached general audiences.
Further complicating matters, Tarantino played the victim card when asked to clarify his comments a week later.
"And their message is very clear," he said. "It's to shut me down."
No one is trying to shut you down, Quentin. We welcome insightful comments from our celebrities. But what we don't want are bias oversimplified sound bytes.
