Review of Pulp Fiction (1994) by Luke K — 08 Feb 2016

What can I say about this movie that hasn't been said a thousand times? It's amazing. It's a postmodern, highly influential masterpiece that continues to be channeled and referenced in modern popular culture, and I believe it's a mesmerising and inspiring example of an auteur filmmaker's unique vision coming to perfect fruition.

This film is a demonstration of Tarantino's individualism and creative innovation at its very best. The nonlinear storytelling is thrilling, the cast is stellar and all at the top of their game (while it's hard to pick a standout, it's even harder to not mention how incredible Samuel L. Jackson is in this movie), the soundtrack is fantastic, and the Tarantino dialogue is at its most energetic and powerful, with some of Tarantino's very best scenes in his entire filmography coming from two hitmen having a casual conversation about foot rubs and cheeseburgers, next to them having philosophical debates about the nature of divine power and fate.

There isn't a weak aspect of this film. The gritty 90s aesthetic is infectious and iconic, with the grimy backdrop of LA making a perfect setting. While all stories are enthralling, a personal favourite of mine will always be Jules and Vincent. I love the dynamic they have as well as all their conversations - specifically their encounter with The Wolf (Harvey Kietel) is the highlight for me, who was also an amazing part of the movie.

Pulp Fiction's inventiveness and stylistic ambition defies labels. It's a neo-noir crime drama, but it's also a hilariously dark comedy, but then it's a fascinating meditation on American society and 90s pop culture. Believed by many to be Tarantino's best, the film is undeniably his most influential and groundbreaking work. I could go on, but there's no point. The film is flawless, and it's a cultural and cinematic landmark for a reason.