The NYPD, FOP and other law enforcement organizations are boycotting Quentin Tarantino’s upcoming film “The Hateful Eight” following his participation in a protest against police brutality.
Tarantino, arguably one of the most recognized film directors today, participated in a march against police brutality in New York on October 24th. “Rise Up October” was organized to raise awareness of more than 50 people allegedly killed from various incidents involving police officers including that of Eric Garner, who made international news when he was placed into a chokehold by an officer on video.
At the rally, Tarantino made several remarks that were strongly criticized by police unions which have also called for a boycott of his film however the director believes that his statements were misinterpreted.
The director’s own father, Tony Tarantino was also critical of his son’s comments and suggested he should apologize.
Responding to the criticism of his stance in the march, he defended his decision to condemn police brutality and said he would not be intimidated by the boycotts nor did he suggest all cops were murderers.
“The Hateful Eight” tells the story of a group of bounty hunters seeking shelter during a blizzard in post-Civil War Wyoming. The film stars Channing Tatum, Kurt Russell, Tim Roth, Samuel L. Jackson and Michael Madson. An earlier version of the script was leaked online which subsequently led to Tarantino considering to abandon the movie, however he later decided to go into production after re-writes. “The Hateful Eight” was shot on 70mm, and went into production earlier this year and will be released in theaters on January 8th.
The upcoming boycott for Tarantino’s latest film does not have anything to do with the subject matter of the film, unlike other public boycotts which disagree with storyline or certain characters.
It is unclear how big the impact the boycott will be on the film’s box office takings but the subsequent media debate may encourage others to watch it as it gets more interest and social media discussion online.
