Tarantino Rebukes Arquette on Pulp Fiction N-Word Use

Quentin Tarantino has sharply rebuked actress Rosanna Arquette for criticizing his use of the N-word in the 1994 film Pulp Fiction, accusing her of cynicism and a lack of respect toward a project she once embraced. The exchange, which unfolded publicly this week, revives long-standing debates over the director's provocative dialogue choices.

Arquette, who appeared in a small role as Jody, the wife of a drug dealer played by Eric Stoltz, shared her views during an interview with The Sunday Times while reflecting on her career. She described Pulp Fiction as "iconic, a great film on a lot of levels," but expressed strong personal discomfort with the racial slur's repeated appearances in the script. "Personally, I am over the use of the N-word. I hate it," she said. "I cannot stand that Tarantino has been given a hall pass. It's not art, it's just racist and creepy." Arquette also noted that she did not receive a share of the film's backend profits, attributing the decision to producer Harvey Weinstein.

Tarantino addressed Arquette directly in a letter shared with multiple publications, including Variety and Deadline. He recalled her enthusiasm for the role at the time and...