Quentin Tarantino recently found himself in hot water; this time for his usage of the N-word in his filmography. In a new interview, an actor from his film, “Pulp Fiction,” Rosanna Arquette, derided it, labeling it “racist.” The veteran filmmaker has now responded, clapping back at her comments.
Quentin Tarantino slams Rosanna Arquette and criticism
In a recent interview, Rosanna Arquette acknowledged the enduring legacy of “Pulp Fiction”. She told The Times that it is “iconic” and “a great film on a lot of levels.” However, the actor expressed her distaste for the N-word’s usage. She added, “I cannot stand that he [Tarantino] has been given a hall pass. It’s not art, it’s just racist and creepy.”
In response, Quentin Tarantino issued a statement reminding her of her initial excitement about being part of the film.
The statement read, “Dear Rosanna, I hope the publicity you’re getting from 132 different media outlets writing your name and printing your picture was worth disrespecting me and a film I remember quite clearly you were thrilled to be a part of?” He continued, “Do you feel this way now? Very possibly” (via Entertainment Weekly).
Tarantino noted her criticism, attributing it to “cynical reasons,” despite his hiring and paying her, shows “a decided lack of class, no less honor.”
“There is supposed to be an esprit de corps between artistic colleagues,” his statement continues. “But it would appear the objective was accomplished. Congratulations, Q.”
Arquette isn’t the first person to criticize Tarantino’s use of the N-word. Renowned filmmaker Spike Lee told Variety years ago that the director was “infatuated with that word.” He also pointed out that not all black people found the word “trendy or slick.” Lee added, “I don’t expect them to change (the prints now out), but I want him (Tarantino) to know about it for future reference.”
Notably, the “BlacKkKlansman” filmmaker also took issue with Tarantino’s “Django Unchained” and its depiction of slavery. He told Vibe Magazine he wouldn’t see it as it was “disrespectful to [his] ancestors.” However, he clarified that he was speaking for himself and no one else (via The Hollywood Reporter).
