Where did it all go wrong?.........

Rating: 2/10 (26 August 2009)

Let's cut to the quick: Inglorious Basterds is an appallingly bad movie.
Given my level of expectation going in and Tarantino's proved track record, I am of the opinion that this could be the worst film of all time.
It's worst crime is it's just so BORING. Nothing happens until the screamingly predictable ending. Scene after scene is dragged out with woeful wasteful dialogue. There is nothing at all to recommend about this film. Where is Tarantino's verve? His wit? Charm, style, playfulness? It's like a film school student trying to ape Tarantino without any of his actual ability.
Tarantino has used a mash-up of styles previously to good effect, but here they just jar. It veers from slapstick humour to serious art film - it doesn't work. It has no identity. The plot is insane, it's stupid, it is illogical beyond belief - that would be fine if Tarantino played it for laughs and pushed the comedic element, but he doesn't, he keeps tracking back to a serious war film.
What's the POINT of the film? There's no great story here, there's no message. It's been described as a "Jewish revenge fantasy", yet it portrays the Jewish characters are at best amoral monsters and the Nazi's are jovial, funny, likable and sometimes even sympathetic characters.
Brad Pitt must have watched the final cut with hands over his face, sinking deeper into his seat through sheer embarrassment. It's certainly a career worst performance from him.
I don't know what you've got cooked up next Quentin, but you need to get back to the drawing board and re-discover that excitement and energy that crackles over your other films, and throw this one in the bin where it belongs.