Quentin Tarantino, the legendary filmmaker known for his unique style and provocative opinions, has once again sparked debate with his latest comments on the state of modern cinema. In a recent op-ed, Tarantino laments the current state of filmmaking, claiming that the movies of the last six years make the '80s seem like the '30s. However, amidst this general dissatisfaction, he singles out one film as a standout: Joe Carnahan's 'The Rip'.
What makes 'The Rip' so special to Tarantino? The film, starring Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, is a serviceable crime thriller that debuted on Netflix in January 2026. While it may not have made a significant impact on the cultural landscape, Tarantino sees it as a modern classic. He praises the movie for holding his attention throughout, and for its ability to captivate him in a way that few recent films have.
But what is it about 'The Rip' that has Tarantino so enthralled? One could argue that the film exhibits tendencies that Tarantino himself has criticized in modern cinema. It's ephemeral, content-driven, and perhaps even a little too reliant on its stars' names. Yet, for Tarantino, it's these very qualities that make 'The Rip' a standout. The film's ability to sweep him away to the magical land of enjoyment, despite its flaws, is what makes it so fascinating to him.
In my opinion, Tarantino's fascination with 'The Rip' is a reflection of his own creative process. As a filmmaker, he knows the power of a well-crafted story, and the ability to hold an audience's attention is crucial. While he may be critical of the state of modern cinema, he also recognizes the value of a good film, even if it's not quite up to his own standards. Perhaps, in his own way, Tarantino is trying to remind us of the importance of storytelling, and the need to keep pushing the boundaries of cinema.
Of course, Tarantino's opinions are not without controversy. Some may see his praise for 'The Rip' as a sign of his own creative stagnation, or a desperate attempt to stay relevant. But, from my perspective, his comments are a reminder of the power of cinema, and the need to keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Whether or not 'The Rip' is a modern classic, it's clear that Tarantino sees something special in it, and that's worth celebrating.
