If RM was as Brian Cox portrayed him in 'Adaptation' I think he'd get more good press. The only decent guru was Jimmy Mistry …
I can't see the issue with VO. Maybe it was the cliche hangover from Hollywood's glory days and RM – amongst others – decided it was lazy. Maybe some writers came to rely on it because of not being able, or good enough, to convey emotions or thought process through images?
Unfortunately, as long as the execs follow RM et al to the letter, it'll be a long road before VO is accepted again.