Quentin Tarantino has responded to Rosanna Arquette's criticism of his use of the N-word in films such as Pulp Fiction, accusing her of showing 'a decided lack of class'. In a statement, the director suggested Arquette's motives were cynical, saying: '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.'
Arquette, who starred in Pulp Fiction, told the Sunday Times she 'cannot stand that [Tarantino] has been given a hall pass', describing his use of the racial slur as 'not art, it’s just racist and creepy'. Tarantino countered that there should be 'esprit de corps between artistic colleagues' and that 'the objective was accomplished' in terms of publicity.
The director has faced longstanding criticism over his frequent use of the N-word, notably from Spike Lee, who in 1997 said Tarantino was 'infatuated with that word'. However, Pulp Fiction and Jackie Brown star Samuel L. Jackson has defended Tarantino, stating the language is not offensive in the context of the films.
Tarantino's latest comments follow his own criticism of actor Paul Dano earlier this year, which drew backlash from Hollywood peers including Toni Collette.
