Not really a controversial movie opinion, but I don't think it deserves its own thread, so I'll put it here since it is close enough: Samuel L. Jackson is not that great an actor. I mean, he can be at times, and he has had some great performances. But it is now getting to the point where I feel like I have seen him do far more bland performances than great or even good ones. I think the problem is that he basically just plays himself, i.e. a loud/angry/opinionated yet somewhat funny guy with no filter, UNLESS he has a strong script AND a very strong personality in the director's chair who can stand up to him and say, "No, Sam. Try it this way." The problem is, he has attained such a status that I don't think there are many directors out there who are willing and able to do that. So rather than being the character, he is content being Sam Jackson with the character's name attached. That's my take, for what it's worth. And, to me, it's a shame too because it feels like wasted potential. He is clearly capable of delivering solid, emotional performances given the right circumstances.