MovieChat Forums > There Will Be Blood (2008) Discussion > Who should've played Eli instead of Paul...

Who should've played Eli instead of Paul Dano?


Paul Dano is the weak link in this movie, I hate his acting. He doesn't even seem like he belongs in that time period, totally unconvincing.

I think someone like Ed Norton would've nailed that role. You can buy him as a leader as seen in American History X, Dano just look and sounds like a loser. The baptism scene would've been incredible pitting Norton's acting chops against Day-Lewis. Oscar's all round.

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I liked him as the first brother that sells the info, he fit that role.

The charismatic priest after money for his church? Total miscast.
Anybody that looked mature or commanding would be better, possibly some big name to be able to contrast DDL, maybe Norton or Bale or anybody with balls.

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J.B. Smoove would be my first choice.

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😂 Nice choice...

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I think Dano did a great job and wouldn't want anyone else in the role.

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Agreed.
TWBB is one of my favorite films.

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Exactly.

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I have a feeling that people might just be echoing Tarantino's critique of Dano in this movie (I might be wrong). I thought he was great personally. Then again I'm not an expert on acting. People wanted someone more commanding... I thought a weaselly type of character was perfect. I really liked the ghost scene too albeit was a tad awkward.

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I don't get people's problem with him in this movie. I found him pretty funny.

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He is a tool.

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Jim Carrey.

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