Actor Armie Hammer is facing backlash after reports surfaced that he privately criticized his own film, Citizen Vigilante, calling it “hateful” and “disgusting,” according to a source who spoke to Puck.
The source claimed Hammer reacted strongly after seeing the finished version of the film for the first time. “The first time he saw it, he was in tears,” the source said. “He called me and said, ‘This is hateful, disgusting.’”
The same source suggested Hammer did not expect the film’s tone. “He knew it leaned toward the right, but Uwe works in a very frantic way,” the source said. “When he saw the final product, he said that was not the movie he thought they made.”
The comments come as director Uwe Boll continues to promote Citizen Vigilante, a low-budget film reportedly made for about $5 million. Boll cast Hammer during a period when the actor’s career had stalled following public controversy and industry backlash.
Hammer himself has previously acknowledged financial struggles during that time, stating he would have accepted almost any paying role. Boll ultimately hired him for a reported $250,000, giving the actor a lead role after years of limited opportunities.
Critics of Hammer’s reported remarks argue the actor participated fully in the project and now appears to be distancing himself after the fact. Hammer’s performance, voice, and likeness all appear in the film, which has drawn attention for its violent themes and political undertones.
Supporters of the film point out that Citizen Vigilante does not portray its main character as a hero, but instead as a dangerous figure meant to provoke discussion. The film has also been described as an exploitation-style project that leans into controversial subject matter without attempting to soften its message.
Despite the controversy, early reports suggest the film may have performed well financially. Some outlets claim Citizen Vigilante has generated more than $60 million through theatrical and video-on-demand sales, though Boll has disputed those figures and said revenue is closer to $600,000.
Questions now surround a possible sequel. According to the same source who spoke to Puck, Hammer has not ruled out returning. “It would have to be life-changing money,” the source said. “Everyone has a breaking point.”
The situation highlights ongoing tensions in Hollywood as actors and filmmakers navigate political messaging, public perception, and financial realities in an industry still divided over culture and accountability.
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English (US) · 