Quentin Tarantino has weighed in on Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone, and the result isn’t what fans expected. The iconic director claims the show is nothing more than a soap opera, falling short in comparison to Justified. What’s behind Tarantino’s criticism? Keep reading to find out more!

“Tarantino’s harsh critique leaves fans divided over Yellowstone’s legacy.”

In a bold move, Quentin Tarantino has stirred the pot by criticizing Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone, one of the most successful Western series in recent years. While Yellowstone has captivated audiences with its high-stakes drama, powerful performances, and stunning visuals, Tarantino doesn’t see it the same way. The famed director recently appeared on Joe Rogan’s podcast, where he voiced his disappointment, calling the show “just a soap opera.”

Despite his admiration for the Western genre, Tarantino didn’t mince words when it came to Yellowstone. While many viewers continue to be enamored with the show’s complex characters and family dynamics, Tarantino believes the broader narrative ultimately lacks substance. He argued that, although the show has compelling backstories and character arcs, the core of the series boils down to melodramatic family drama. “They introduce you to a bunch of characters. You kind of know their backstories, their connections with everyone else. They spend time building that up, but ultimately, it’s just the compelling soap opera drama of what’s happening,” Tarantino explained.

This criticism is especially significant when compared to Tarantino’s personal favorite, Justified. The show, based on Elmore Leonard’s novels, has long been a favorite of Tarantino’s, and he even played a key role in the creation of the Justified: City Primeval spin-off. The show’s smart, quick-witted dialogue and tightly paced arcs are aspects Tarantino clearly values. In contrast, Yellowstone, according to the director, falters in pacing and dialogue. He felt the show dragged at times, with mid-season episodes that seemed repetitive, while Justified always kept viewers on edge with its sharp writing and gripping storylines.

Justified, which sits at a stellar 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, has long been praised for its character-driven plots and consistent quality. In comparison, Yellowstone, though beloved by fans, has a more polarizing reception, reflected in its 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Tarantino’s sharp-eyed critique puts the two Western series in a stark contrast, with Justified being the clear winner in his book.

Tarantino’s critiques have some wondering whether Yellowstone has lost some of its steam, especially after the exit of Kevin Costner, one of its lead stars. Tarantino’s comments suggest that even the biggest stars may not be immune to the show’s repetitive narrative, which may have contributed to Costner’s decision to leave.

As Yellowstone continues its run, it will be interesting to see if fans embrace the soap opera elements Tarantino criticizes or if they’ll heed his words and demand more from the show. Can Sheridan’s Yellowstone live up to the high bar set by its predecessor shows, or will it remain a flashy but flawed soap opera in the eyes of some?

Do you agree with Tarantino’s harsh take on Yellowstone? Is Yellowstone a soap opera or a masterpiece? Share your thoughts below!