Released on Blu-ray this autumn, Pulp Fiction (1994) — arguably Tarantino’s most successful and critically acclaimed film — gets the high-definition upgrade fans have been waiting for… and what a beauty it is to watch.
The non-linear and multiple narrative brainchild of Quentin Tarantino, Pulp Fiction follows the fast-paced and violent lives of a group of people including two hitmen and a boxer, all of whom are connected in some way. The film boasts an impressive cast list — John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman and Bruce Willis to name but a few — and the film encapsulates Tarantino’s sublime writing abilities to create an action film with intelligence behind it.
The film is inspired by the pulp genre, particularly magazines from the 1970s, which gives the film its iconic cinematography and atmosphere that adds a vintage feel that is charming yet also thrilling. What is most successful about the film is the characters. They are completely absorbing and likable, which is something most directors and writers seem to forget (Limitless starring Bradley Cooper is a recent example).
Looking at the Blu-ray release, the picture quality is fantastic; but more noticeable is the sound enhancement, which makes the original soundtrack seem even more engaging, pulling you into the world of Pulp Fiction. The extras included are the same as the DVD edition, plus interesting interviews with cast members in which they look back on the film and its influence — an interesting watch for anyone wanting to know more about the film’s origins.
This definitely deserves a place in any collection as one of the greatest movies of all-time. Thrown into the HD revolution, it is outstanding.
Pulp Fiction (1994), directed by Quentin Tarantino, is available on DVD and Blu-ray from Lionsgate Home Entertainment, certificate 18.
