Good but Not Outstanding

Rating: 7/10 (10 January 2016)

Right, I understand: a filmmaker cannot be expected to make a masterpiece every time he or she makes another movie. Though some have come close, it's basically impossible. It's unfair to hold those expectations for writers and directors.
However, I can't help but feel that Tarantino has allowed himself to stay close to home. He doesn't roam free, trying new things, attempting a new style or genre. Sure, there is a new set of characters, a new setting, a new plot. But there numerous instances in the film that could be predicted because, well, it's Tarantino's style. He even uses most of the same actors he has used before. That can be fine, but now that this is his 8th film, I wished he deviated more from the style of his other films.
That isn't to say it isn't good. It definitely is good. Many viewers remain interested in the story, and that is impressive considering the three-hour run-time. The acting is great, the cinematography is beautiful, there is suspense and mystery, and there are a lot of laughs. I was actually impressed with the number of laughs I had.
Here's the plot: a bounty hunter is transporting a criminal to a small town. He meets another bounty hunter along the way, along with the sheriff of the town he's traveling to. They get caught in a storm and have to stay at a haberdashery. They planned to make a quick stop, but now they have to wait for the storm to pass. They meet a number of other travelers there, but soon everyone realizes they have a connection with each other. And their interests get in the way of each other's survival.
It's been described as a violent Western version of Clue. I would say that is accurate. There a a bunch of "a-ha" moments for the characters, along with long sequences of explanations and discussions. This works sometimes, and other times it drags on.
I read an article that stated Tarantino wants to make a horror film. A real horror film, one that intends to scare you. I would love to see this.
Bottom line is that this film closely parallels the other films that Tarantino has made. If you like that, you'll love this film. If you are looking for something fresh, this won't deliver. I like Tarantino and enjoyed the film, but the issue I mentioned is the reason this movie is 7/10 instead of 10/10.