Tarantinos best work since Pulp Fiction, without question

Rating: 9/10 (3 March 2015)

I was compelled to finally create an account on IMDb after seeing the multitude of negative reviews that this title has for some reason managed to generate. I couldn't help but notice they often mention this "talking at tables" phrase, as if it was some kind of negative, often spouting that the only positive or redeeming feature of this film is Christopher Waltz's performance as 'Colonel Hans Landa', which is without a doubt one of the best we've seen for a long, long time. To say that his awe inspiring and completely Oscar worthy performance is the only quality to find here is without a doubt, in my mind a complete and utter fabrication.
This reference to the "Talking at tables" insult only serves to further baffle me when the best scene in this film is not only one that doesn't feature Christopher Waltz, but takes place behind a table for the largest majority of it. As you would expect from a Tarantino film, it is not driven by the stylised, often over the top violence (Kill Bill aside) but by the dialogue and direction. I am not one for spoilers so I'll refrain from leaking any, but needless to say from the very beginning of this scene you are quite quickly assaulted by an atmosphere of highly strung, brilliantly constructed tension, leaving you to wonder what on earth is going to happen next, driven entirely by pop-culture references and subtleties, what happens within this french bar is almost magic.
This is something that Tarantino has always been talented at; his ability to bring characters to life and create tone. Throughout this movie I couldn't help but fondly remember the apartment scene in Pulp Fiction between Jules and Brad, or the opening sequence to Reservoir Dogs(in which coincidently they are sat around a table). I was constantly reminded of just how brilliant Quinen can be when he gets something right. I cannot think of a scene in this film that I wasn't completely absorbed by, its' content is fresh, funny and at the same time remains coherent and believable.
The performances on the whole are across the board above par. Christopher Waltz is the stand out performer here, his portrayal of he arrogant and manipulative 'Colonel Hans Landa' has catapulted his career into a deserved upwards spiral and this role has collected almost a cult like following. Brad Pitt delivers what we have become accustomed to receiving from him; Humorous, charismatic and charming, a likable character delivered by a perfectly cast actor who eats up the dialogue as if spouting it naturally. The rest of the backing cast is similarly talented, each of them producing genuine performances that are brimming with character.
There are further elements about this film that are completely typical to Tarantino, the score from Ennio Morricone is expertly applied and adds to this atmospheric, magnetic piece. The shooting of the film is superb, camera work befitting the tone and clearly well directed by a master of his trade.
I could continue to praise this film but I fear that I would grow tired of my own words, my best piece of advice is simply; WATCH THIS FILM. As long as you are not a transformers fan,in which instance you might find the relative lack of action tedious. But to anyone with the briefest appreciation for great writing, marvellous direction and expertly delivered dialogue this is a must watch. Tarantina back to his best after his slightly less impressive showings since Pulp Fiction.