Owen Wilson Reveals His Dream Directors—and Tarantino’s Surprising Snub

Owen Wilson has enjoyed a long and varied career, but it looks like he won’t be appearing in Quentin Tarantino’s highly anticipated final film. Tarantino hasn’t been shy about his feelings, making it clear he can’t stand the sight of Wilson. Instead of simply praising Wilson’s performance in ‘Midnight in Paris’—a film Tarantino has called one of his favorites of the century—he went all in, saying he “really can’t stand” the actor, despite Wilson’s Golden Globe-nominated turn in the movie. Tarantino’s bluntness isn’t new, and he’s taken aim at other actors before, but it doesn’t seem to bother Wilson much.

Over the past three decades, Wilson has worked with some of the most respected and controversial filmmakers in the business, including Woody Allen, Wes Anderson, James L. Brooks, Michael Bay, and Paul Thomas Anderson. He’s shared the screen with stars like Eddie Murphy, Jackie Chan, Gene Hackman, and Jon Voight. With such a diverse resume, it’s hard to imagine Wilson losing sleep over Tarantino’s comments.

Wilson’s Cinematic Range

Though he’s closely associated with Wes Anderson, dating back to their early days with ‘Bottle Rocket,’ Wilson’s filmography covers nearly every genre. He’s played recurring roles in major superhero franchises, shown off his comedic timing, and even taken on intense action scenes—like the unforgettable moment in ‘No Escape’ where he throws a baby off a rooftop. Wilson’s versatility has made him a familiar face in Hollywood, and he’s proven he can adapt to just about any role.

When asked by Screen Crush if there’s a director he’s especially eager to work with, Wilson didn’t hesitate.

“I love the Coen brothers, ” Wilson said. “I guess that would be the one. They’re great.”

It’s easy to picture Wilson fitting right into the offbeat, distinctive world the Coens have created in their films.

The Coen Brothers Connection

Joel and Ethan Coen are known for their unique style and a regular roster of actors, but Wilson’s admiration for them is clear. The brothers are currently on a break from working together, and their reunion has yet to be confirmed. If they do decide to team up again, Wilson would love to be part of their next project. Whether or not he’s at the top of their list, he’s made it known that collaborating with the Coens is a dream he’s still chasing.

While the Coens have their go-to actors, there’s always room for new faces. If they ever decide to shake things up and bring in someone fresh, Wilson could be a perfect fit for their next chapter.