The film, which starred Stiller himself along with other big names like Robert Downey Jr., has been the target of much criticism in recent years for its controversial elements, including the use of blackface.
In response to a tweet alleging that he had apologized to the "woke" cancel culture mob for his role in the film, Stiller tweeted, "I make no apologies for Tropic Thunder. Don’t know who told you that. It’s always been a controversial movie since when we opened. Proud of it and the work everyone did on it."
February 23, 2023
Stiller's tweet was in response to a conservative user named Benny S., who had posted a screenshot of another tweet from his account, discussing how "liberals are trying to ‘cancel culture’" the film and circulating another claim that Stiller had apologized for it.
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"When the Wayans Brothers made ‘White Chicks…. nobody said a dang thing!!!! STOP APOLOGIZING FOR THIS STUFF!!!!" one quote from the image read.
Despite the criticism, Stiller has continued to defend the film, which he co-wrote, directed, and starred in. "Tropic Thunder" is a satirical comedy that pokes fun at Hollywood and the entertainment industry, and Stiller has always maintained that the controversial elements of the film were intended to be satirical.
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The controversy surrounding "Tropic Thunder" has only increased in recent years, with some critics calling for it to be canceled due to its use of blackface. However, others argue that the film is a classic that should be judged on its own merits.
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Downey, who played the character of Kirk Lazarus in the film, has also defended his role, saying that it allowed him to "hold up to nature the insane self-hypocrisy of artists and what they think they’re allowed to do on occasion." During a 2020 interview on "The Joe Rogan Experience," Downey added, "It was impossible to not have it be an offensive nightmare of a movie."
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In the wake of the controversy, Stiller has also spoken out in support of the Special Olympics, an organization that provides year-round sports training and competition to people with intellectual disabilities. Stiller has been a longtime supporter of the organization and has frequently used his platform to raise awareness about their work.
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In a 2018 tweet, Stiller responded to another Twitter user who jokingly said the film should be boycotted after former Olympic athlete Shaun White's controversial Halloween costume emulated the intellectually disabled Simple Jack character from the film. "Actually, Tropic Thunder was boycotted 10 years ago when it came out, and I apologized then," Stiller wrote at the time. "It was always meant to make fun of actors trying to do anything to win awards. I stand by my apology, the movie, Shaun White, And the great people and work of the @SpecialOlympics."
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Despite the controversy, "Tropic Thunder" remains a beloved and iconic film that has stood the test of time. It is a testament to Stiller's talent and creativity as a filmmaker that he was able to create a film that was both hilarious and thought-provoking and that continues to resonate with audiences today.