Quentin Tarantino calls 'Yellowstone' a soap opera with no payoff
- During a recent podcast appearance, Quentin Tarantino discussed his views on 'Yellowstone' and its narrative style.
- While he enjoyed the show, he ultimately concluded that it resembles a soap opera with no lasting payoff.
- Tarantino's commentary raises questions about the current state of television storytelling versus traditional cinema.
Recently, filmmaker Quentin Tarantino appeared on Joe Rogan's podcast to discuss the popular Western series 'Yellowstone.' During the conversation, he expressed his admiration for the show, acknowledging its compelling storytelling and quality writing. However, despite enjoying the first season and getting drawn into the narratives, he ultimately categorized 'Yellowstone' as a soap opera. Tarantino highlighted that, while viewers might feel engaged in the moment, the story lacks a lasting impact compared to classic Western films. He noted that viewers may not remember key details or character developments over time, contrasting it with the memorable elements of a well-crafted movie. Tarantino specifically mentioned that after consuming three seasons of 'Yellowstone' and even the spin-off series '1883,' he found that while the shows could captivate an audience, they did not linger in memory like traditional films. He pointed out that the intricate plots and character arcs are ultimately overshadowed by what he described as the 'minutiae' of a soap opera, leaving little enduring impression. Tarantino reminisced about the films he considers truly iconic, such as 'Red River,' emphasizing that their stories stay with viewers for years after watching. Moreover, Tarantino highlighted the changes in television storytelling, noting that current shows often utilize cinematic techniques similar to films, providing what he views as an illusion of depth. He argued that while advancing production quality, many television shows still do not offer the same emotional payoff or impactful storytelling that audience members remember and cherish from classic cinema. In his analysis, Tarantino also contrasted 'Yellowstone' with another series, 'Homeland,' which he believes transcends the soap opera formula. His remarks open up discussions on the evolving landscape of television narratives and how they affect viewer perception compared to traditional films. While offering appreciation for the artistry behind shows like 'Yellowstone,' Tarantino feels that a shared, deep connection typical of enduring films is often missing, inviting commentary on the nature of storytelling in modern media.