Tech is like any other human endeavor. People talk. People change jobs and still like the people in the place they left.

Yes exactly. Which is why I wouldn't touch anyone who has no criticism for the systems OR culture of a place they've been before.

Nowhere is perfect. If people can't be honest about the flaws then they're useless.

Of course you can hire whomever you want. I would hire someone who has criticism about what he had done in the past and what they have learned. Nobody is perfect. But people with no self reflection blaming others and their employer? No thank you.