Director Taika Waititi has publicly dismissed the negative critical reception surrounding his recent film adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel, Klara and the Sun. During a recent press engagement, the filmmaker characterized those who penned unfavorable reviews as “irrelevant” and described them as “sad lost souls.” The director’s comments reflect a long-standing personal policy regarding media coverage of his creative projects.
Waititi stated that he has not “read a review” in approximately 15 years, suggesting that he prefers to maintain a distance from professional critiques of his work. This detachment allows him to focus on his artistic vision without the influence of industry journalists or external analysts. By ignoring traditional media assessments, he aims to insulate his creative process from the potential pressures of public opinion.
Despite his disregard for professional critics, the director emphasized that he remains interested in the perspectives of his actual audience members. He noted that while he ignores the written press, “I do listen to the people” who watch his films in theaters. This distinction highlights his preference for direct engagement with viewers over the institutionalized feedback provided by film reviewers.
The film, which stars Jenna Ortega, faced a mixed response from critics following its debut. While some praised the visual direction and adaptation choices, others expressed reservations about the narrative execution. Waititi’s remarks appear to be a response to the broader culture of film criticism, which he views as disconnected from the genuine experiences of the general public. His stance remains consistent with his previous public comments regarding the role of media in his career. As the film continues its distribution, the discourse surrounding Waititi’s approach to criticism reflects the ongoing tension between filmmakers and the professional review ecosystem. The director shows no signs of altering his approach to media consumption, maintaining that his focus remains entirely on the audience’s reception rather than the opinions of professional writers.
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