Superb Performances

Rating: 8/10 (20 January 2019)

23 August 2009. Curiously, this movie is repulsive, depressing, and despicable. Regardless of personal taste, this movie also contains some of the most amazing acting performances and brilliant scenes of psychological intensity this year (2009). Director Quenting Tarantino continues his propensity for violence and in this movie even more raw, graphic almost indulgent use. There are echos of KILL BILL editing and storyline presentation that is a bit derivative while there are captivating musical verses reminiscent from HANGING AND PICNIC ROCK (1979) and the energizing musical score from MANHUNTER (1976). Unfortunately, unlike Steven Spielberg's SCHINDLER'S LIST (1993), the German characters while presented with some authenticity, none of them have any redeeming value as human beings, perpetuating the stereotypical monster inherent in the Nazi race, perhaps allowing for the pervasive slaughter on screen. Instead of a more well-rounded, conflicted performances, Tarantino sticks with the more straight-forward action-thriller without moral conflicts which would have made for a more serious drama. The ultimate disposition of most of the characters are more easily disposed off though the final scene has its more redemptive outcome. 8/10.