Classic Tarantino

Rating: 7/10 (17 December 2013)

Everybody has an issue with dysfunction. Dysfunction with family, in the workplace, in social circles or elsewhere in their lives, but everybody in today's society suffers from some type of dysfunction. This film illustrates the very meaning of dysfunction. In looking at any one of the characters from the John Travolta and Samuel Jackson roles as professional hit men (Vincent and Jules respectively) to the head mobster and his wife, Marcellus and Mia played by Ving Rhames and Uma Thurman, all were drowned in dysfunctional issues. The highpoint of the film is that in comparison to your own situation at home where you looked at the familial relationships as being the pinnacle of microcosmic sociopaths, this film makes them appear as angels. I believe one factor that helped make this film come together was the dialog. The wit of Jules was expounded brilliantly.
In essence this film appears to have three separate and distinct story lines - which helps those of us with ADD. There is the component of mystery. For example it was never revealed what was in the briefcase Vincent and Jules were sent to retrieve.
While I have actually viewed this movie on more than one occasion, I am not certain I can narrow one single plot or story line as the primary. The theme of the movie was the social implications in a dysfunctional world. While this is a very loose association, I would think that the horror movie (series) Saw is the closest thing I can offer in suggesting thematic comparison.
His (Tarantino's) use of props and shock value are two of the most important components to tie into the movie's theme. If I had to pick a third, it would be the creative dialog between the characters.
The film did not follow a strict chronological sequence which, in keeping with the dysfunctional theme managed to work in the film's favor.
Tarantino uses his now well-known knack for the dramatic to create and develop roles that are violent, mysterious, humorous and charismatic all at the same time. Somehow this movie fits together. The direction, cinematography, and editing work to make a film with apparent random scenes somehow mesh.
This particular film is indicative of the mind of Tarantino. Anyone who has developed a liking of his style and inner goings-on will appreciate this work. It is destined to be a classic in the minds of movie buffs everywhere.