Director David O. Russell has faced renewed scrutiny over his reputation for unruly conduct on film sets. Actor George Clooney recently criticized Russell during an interview, calling the director a “miserable f***” and saying it was not worthwhile to work with him.
Clooney’s remarks stem from his experience filming “Three Kings” in 1999. He claims Russell verbally attacked crew members and engaged in a physical confrontation with Clooney himself. Clooney described the production as “the worst experience of my life.” However, Clooney is just one of many who have alleged improper behavior by Russell.
Numerous other actors and crew have told of Russell’s erratic conduct over two decades. According to a leaked video, Lily Tomlin was loudly berated by Russell while filming “I Heart Huckabees” in 2004. Christian Bale reportedly had to intervene on behalf of Amy Adams during “American Hustle,” as she struggled with Russell. Other incidents involved Russell allegedly reducing a Fox executive and actress Sally Field to tears at separate times.
Beyond movie sets, Russell has been accused of placing director Christopher Nolan in a headlock. Most seriously, in 2012, Russell’s transgender niece filed a police report accusing him of inappropriate touching, though no charges resulted. Russell’s reported response downplayed his niece’s account.
Despite controversies, Russell continues securing funding and casting top actors, like in 2022’s “Amsterdam.” Some say his Oscar-worthy films earn more leeway. Media studies professor Kate Fortmueller told The Washington Post that commercially successful directors can receive passes they may not deserve.
Russell has at times addressed issues, denying physical violence but diminishing verbal clashes as creative differences. Actors like Christian Bale praise Russell’s talent yet acknowledge his intensity. As Hollywood faces its own #MeToo reckoning, Russell’s enduring career poses questions about prioritizing art over accountability. With new issues regularly surfacing, separating the man from his work grows increasingly perplexing.
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