In 1994, Pulp Fiction ushered in a whole new type of film that mixed realism, fantasy, smart dialogue and graphic violence. Widely praised by the critics as “shocking” “Funny” and “Blazingly Original”, it received a mix reception from the general public. I saw it in 1994 at a local matinee and enjoyed it. But half the audience walked out before an hour was up. One old man walked by me and spit out “this is garbage”. Today, of course, we’re so used to deviancy and violence, it seems almost normal.
On re-watch, I liked it less and was struck at how silly & tiresome some of it is. Did we really need the restaurant hold up scenes - and those two bogus characters? What was the point? Or have a discussion of Burger King Hamburgers in France? In fact, only two of the characters held my interest. First, Bruce Willis as the boxer in danger, and Harvey Keitel’s “clean up” Pro. They’re about 40% of the movie. Other notes: Travolta looks apish and stupid, while Uma Thurman looks quite odd - like a female impersonator.
Summary: This is the movie that started QT into his own special world of comic book characters, over-the-top violence, and riffing off old movies. Later he became even more fantastical, and extravagant in things like Django and Inglorious Bastards. Like those movies, I only enjoyed parts of Pulp Fiction. I admire the technique and the sometimes brilliant smart-ass dialogue - but I need more than that. There’s nothing wrong with a good hot dog, but no matter how well you cook it, it’s still a Hot dog. Even when it comes with expensive Mustard. Rating ** 1/2
On re-watch, I liked it less and was struck at how silly & tiresome some of it is. Did we really need the restaurant hold up scenes - and those two bogus characters? What was the point? Or have a discussion of Burger King Hamburgers in France? In fact, only two of the characters held my interest. First, Bruce Willis as the boxer in danger, and Harvey Keitel’s “clean up” Pro. They’re about 40% of the movie. Other notes: Travolta looks apish and stupid, while Uma Thurman looks quite odd - like a female impersonator.
Summary: This is the movie that started QT into his own special world of comic book characters, over-the-top violence, and riffing off old movies. Later he became even more fantastical, and extravagant in things like Django and Inglorious Bastards. Like those movies, I only enjoyed parts of Pulp Fiction. I admire the technique and the sometimes brilliant smart-ass dialogue - but I need more than that. There’s nothing wrong with a good hot dog, but no matter how well you cook it, it’s still a Hot dog. Even when it comes with expensive Mustard. Rating ** 1/2
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