Channing Tatum criticizes Hollywood for rewarding 'bad' films over quality storytelling

Channing Tatum says Hollywood rewards bad movies over quality as industry faces streaming-driven confusion

Channing Tatum is voicing his frustration with the current state of the film industry, saying that actors are increasingly “incentivized” to take roles in lower-quality projects for financial gain rather than prioritize creatively fulfilling or high-quality films.

During a recent appearance on Hot Ones, the Roofman actor opened up about how the business of moviemaking has shifted in recent years. “It really feels like, at times, that you’re incentivized to make bad things to get paid, rather than make something really, really good,” Tatum said. He added that he misses the kind of meaningful stories that inspired him when he was younger, saying, “I want to give my money to the good movies.”

Tatum described the current system as a “very confused pipeline of possibilities,” acknowledging the growing complexity of getting a movie greenlit. He expressed hope that the ongoing disruption—largely driven by the rise of streaming platforms—could ultimately bring about positive change. “The streamers came in for a reason, and it had to change. It had to morph,” he said, suggesting that despite the chaos, a transformation is underway.

Tatum also poked fun at his own filmography. When asked about his 2010 romantic drama Dear John, he admitted, “It’s such a generic movie.” Reflecting on his small appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), he said he didn’t feel like he was truly part of the film, since his screen time was so limited.

This isn’t the first time Tatum has shared his concerns about the industry's direction. In a previous Variety interview, he criticized the effect of streaming platforms on the traditional Hollywood system. “The studios are confused; the streamers are confused,” he said. “You’re incentivizing me to go make a subpar movie — a B script, a programmer that isn’t special.”

Tatum’s remarks reflect broader concerns within the entertainment industry about balancing profitability with creative integrity.