experimental editing in pulp fiction

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Pulp fiction, specialist study area 2: auteur and pulp fiction.

• the use of vibrant colours
• a hyperreal approach to set design (Jack Rabbit Slims)
• retro clothing
• violence (often treated in a humorous way)
• the theme of redemption
• long takes, creating tension and developing character
• subverting conventional uses of film form/film language
• action set pieces, such as the 'Mexican stand-off'
• anti-heroes or the blurring of boundaries between protagonists and antagonists
• an eclectic mix of musical genres and eras, with songs frequently played in their entirety
• paying homage to old films/cult films/obscure movies/genre films
• intertextual, pop-culture references
• foregrounding dialogue (which is more realistic than plot-driving dialogue in many mainstream movies)
• drawing attention to the fact that the audience is watching a 'constructed' film and breaking the fourth wall
• casting older actors as a tribute to the roles they played as younger men and women
• manipulation of narrative structure and a playfulness with audience narrative expectations

• Reservoir Dogs - the plot begins by presenting events from the middle of the story, showing the crew of thieves in a diner on their way to the robbery (which the audience never actually witness). The rest of the plot skips between the aftermath and the events leading up to the job, with some of the earliest recruiting scenes (of Mr Orange, in particular) shown towards the end of the plot (just before the end of the film)
• True Romance - Tarantino's first script delivers story events in the plot out of chronological order. When the script was made into a movie by director Tony Scott (after the success of Tarantino's Reservoir Dogs ), Scott chose to present the narrative chronologically
• Natural Born Killers - the narrative structure of director Oliver Stone's movie (based on a script written by Tarantino) is really loose, with many of the film's scenes a series of obscure, seemingly unconnected experiments in style rather than causally linked, coherent events
• Jackie Brown - a film which is arguably the most linear of all of Tarantino's movies, shows moments from the film's final act from three different perspectives
• Kill Bill Volume 1 and 2 - both films employ a non-linear narrative structure with multiple story events presented out of chronological order in the plot (partly to mimic the structure and recall of human memory and partly to gradually reveal information about the Bride's past)
• Death Proof - shot and edited like an old exploitation movie from the 1970s, the narrative structure appears fractured partly as a result of 'missing reels' in the film (homage to real exploitation films that often suffered from narrative coherence as a result of missing scenes in some of the prints that were delivered to cinemas)
• Inglourious Basterds - structured in chapters, with characters (rather than story events) overlapping, though unlike many of Tarantino's films the story is presented largely in chronological order
• Django Unchained - relatively linear narrative structure apart from occasional flashbacks and flashforwards
• The Hateful Eight - the first half of the movie (the journey to the cabin) is presented chronologically but the second half of the film features multiple flashbacks and events presented from different perspectives as the characters gathered in the cabin lie and try to outwit each other
• Once Upon a Time in Hollywood - sticks to a largely conventional narrative structure though, as with Inglourious Basterds , the film's narrative resolution dramatically re-writes historical events

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Cinematic Techniques in Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction” Essay (Movie Review)

Introduction, cinematic techniques.

Artists have a unique way of expressing their ideas to the public through various genres of entertainment. Today, modern technology has reduced the work of movie producers, musicians, actors, and other artists. Art involves creativity and hard work to produce work that resonates with audiences and achieves the objectives set by producers and screenplay writers. This essay presents a critique of the cinematic techniques and how they have helped establish the theme of ethical choices in Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction .

Pulp Fiction is a fictional film featuring criminals who have different interests in criminal activities. Jules and Vincent are hitmen for hire and their mission to eliminate Marcellus Wallace is cut short by an unknown shooter (Trushell, 2004). They kill the intruder, but Jules decided to quit this game since he believes that his escape from the jaws of death is a miracle and thus one needs to reflect and change his lifestyle. Vincent thinks they made the right choices, and that is why the six bullets fired by the intruder missed them by a whisker. Vincent does not realize it is time to change his behavior and continues to commit more crimes (McCann, 2000). Life offered him numerous opportunities to change his ways, but he never realized that criminal activities do not pay. Other characters and Vincent succumbed to bullet wounds or drugs because of their carefree lifestyles.

Quentin Tarantino is known for his unique cinematic techniques that enable him to pass his messages to audiences through images. Pulp Fiction was produced in a unique way that is a trademark of this gallant producer. The cinematic techniques are evident in his film and make it interesting and appropriate in the modern age.

Camera angles and shots

The producer has used the trunk and hood point of vision shots that make the film appear real. This technique is unique and very few producers know how to use it. The audience can see the full image of the characters in the movies and this brings out the elegant nature of their prowess in different scenes and casts (Trushell, 2004). Reverse trunk shot techniques are also evident in the movie, and the producer used them to ensure the movie had a different angle. It is boring to watch a movie that has a landscape portrait from the beginning to the end. Audiences can remember various scenes because of the camera angles used to capture events like the shooting of Vincent and Jules by the intruder. The producer has used the corpse point of vision angle to create the tension and anxiety that fills cinema halls when the unexpected happens in movies (McCann, 2000). This angle prepares audiences for the gory scenes of blood, injuries, and death. For instance, the audience expected Marcellus to be dead because of the camera angle used to capture his movement as he woke up after Butch’s car knocked him down. The same technique is used when Butch hits Maynard and everybody expects him to be dead.

Color variations

A color is an important form of non-verbal communication that artists use to pass their messages to audiences. Tarantino did not disappoint in using black and white to express various messages intended to be digested by his audiences. Cinema critics argue that this producer uses these two colors to emphasize the significance of tradition in modern societies. It is correct to argue that he believes in conservatism ideologies because of his love for black and white sequences. The French New Wave era had a profound effect on his creativity and use of colors to denote ancient scenes and ideological concepts like cultural values and traditions (Trushell, 2004). In addition, Tarantino has admitted several times that he has an undying love for the movies produced in the early days of cinema. He believes that technology should not change people’s ways of life, and that is why the use of black and white in this movie pre-dominated scenes that were influenced by historical events (McCann, 2000). For instance, the black and white suits worn by Vincent Vega, Jules Winnfield, and Mia Wallace have been used to portray the lifestyles of the wealthy and influential members of society.

Tarantino used unique props to communicate to his audiences and ensured each of them fitted with eh scenes and characters used. He believes that some colors give people honor and prestige, and that is why all his main characters were dressed in black and white suits in most scenes. The Vintage cars (white Honda Civic and 1964 Chevrolet Malibu are used by Butch and Vincent Vega respectively) add value and credibility to the movie while enabling audiences to understand Tarantino’s real-life (Trushell, 2004). The producer used Samurai Swords to help audiences understand that criminal activities are not devoid of conduct and order. However, these virtues are misplaced because they are used to propagate illegal businesses.

Quentin Tarantino’s cinematic techniques enhance credibility and make his movie interesting. He used different camera angles to create variation and jiggle the memory of his audiences. Different camera positions were used to make the movie exciting and produce scenes that matched with their events. The color variations resonated with the theme of ethical and legal behaviors that are pillars of a successful life. This technique appreciates the contributions of cultural practices that shape the behavior of individuals. The props used to make the movie credible and highlight the magnitude of the impacts of virtues and vices on social lives.

McCann, S. (2000). Gumshoe America: Hard-Boiled Crime Fiction and the Rise and Fall of New Deal Liberalism . Durham: Duke University Press.

Trushell, J. M. (2004). American Dreams of Mutants: The X‐Men—“Pulp” Fiction, Science Fiction, and Superheroes. The Journal of Popular Culture , 38 (1), 149-168.

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IvyPanda. (2022, January 25). Cinematic Techniques in Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction". https://ivypanda.com/essays/cinematic-techniques-in-tarantinos-pulp-fiction/

"Cinematic Techniques in Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction"." IvyPanda , 25 Jan. 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/cinematic-techniques-in-tarantinos-pulp-fiction/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'Cinematic Techniques in Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction"'. 25 January.

IvyPanda . 2022. "Cinematic Techniques in Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction"." January 25, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/cinematic-techniques-in-tarantinos-pulp-fiction/.

1. IvyPanda . "Cinematic Techniques in Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction"." January 25, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/cinematic-techniques-in-tarantinos-pulp-fiction/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Cinematic Techniques in Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction"." January 25, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/cinematic-techniques-in-tarantinos-pulp-fiction/.

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Mastering Pulp Fiction Cinematography: A Path to Success in the Film Industry

• Published: July 21, 2023
• By: Yellowbrick

Pulp Fiction, the iconic film directed by Quentin Tarantino, is known for its non-linear storyline, compelling characters, and unique cinematography. The film’s cinematographer, Andrzej Sekula, used a variety of techniques to create an immersive experience for the viewer. In this article, we will explore the different elements of Pulp Fiction’s cinematography and how they can be applied to your own filmmaking career.

One of the most striking aspects of Pulp Fiction’s cinematography is its use of lighting. The film features a mix of natural and artificial lighting, which creates a sense of realism and depth. For example, in the scene where Vincent and Mia dance at Jack Rabbit Slim’s, the lighting is soft and warm, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. In contrast, the scene where Vincent and Jules confront Brett is lit with harsh, bright lights, which creates a sense of tension and danger.

To apply this technique to your own filmmaking, experiment with different types of lighting. Don’t be afraid to mix natural and artificial lighting, and use lighting to create a specific mood or atmosphere.

Camera Movement

Pulp Fiction’s cinematography also makes use of dynamic camera movement. The film features a variety of camera angles and movements, including tracking shots, close-ups, and wide shots. This creates a sense of movement and energy, and helps to keep the viewer engaged.

To apply this technique to your own filmmaking, experiment with different types of camera movement. Try using a handheld camera for a more documentary-style feel, or use a dolly or crane for smoother, more controlled movements.

Composition

Another key element of Pulp Fiction’s cinematography is its composition. The film uses a variety of framing techniques, including close-ups, medium shots, and wide shots. This creates a sense of depth and perspective, and helps to draw the viewer into the scene.

To apply this technique to your own filmmaking, experiment with different types of framing. Try using close-ups to emphasize emotion or detail, or use wide shots to establish a sense of location or setting.

Finally, Pulp Fiction’s cinematography makes use of color to create a specific mood or atmosphere. The film features a mix of muted and vibrant colors, which creates a sense of contrast and depth. For example, the scene where Vincent and Mia dance is lit with warm, golden light, which creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

To apply this technique to your own filmmaking, experiment with different color palettes. Use color to create a specific mood or atmosphere, and don’t be afraid to mix and match different colors for a more dynamic look.

Key Takeaways

• Pulp Fiction’s cinematography makes use of lighting, camera movement, composition, and color to create a unique and immersive experience for the viewer.
• To apply these techniques to your own filmmaking, experiment with different types of lighting, camera movement, framing, and color.
• Consider taking the NYU Film and TV Industry Essentials online course and certificate program to further develop your skills and knowledge in the film industry.

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PULP FICTION - Experimental CINEMATOGRAPHY [full lesson and assessment]

Subject: Media studies

Age range: 16+

Resource type: Lesson (complete)

Last updated

8 June 2023

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**This pack contains one 23-slide PowerPoint that teaches how to answer this question using Pulp Fiction as the chosen film.

One 12-page booklet - note taking, fill in the gaps, analysis, detailed slides and essay planning document. **

Explore how far cinematography contributes to the experimental nature of your chosen film or films. [20]

every analysis task comes with multiple slides breaking down the scenes and provide guidane for essay writing

Lesson covers:

• Starter - Re-cap of conventional/mainstream American cinema approach to camera
• Short Martin Scorsese/ history of the Hollywood style - documentary extract and tasks
• Explanation of the ‘formal’ approach to cinematography - with examples
• Discussion of Tarantino’s most common ‘experimental’ uses of camera - with examples from the film
• How to write an introduction to the question - writing task
• Part 1 - 'using the camera to restrict information and create active spectators.
• The ‘Trunk shot’
• Part 2 - Subversion of conventional approach / experimenting with scene construction
• Analysis of scene from Fast and Furious 7 -
• Comparative analysis of the ‘Marcellus meets Butch’ scene from the film
• Part 3 - French New Wave: camera in service of the characters, not narrative
• Analysis - scene from Breathless
• Analysis - comparison to final scene from the film
• Detailed visual breakdown of the final sequence

Plenary/assessment:

• Read exemplar essay
• Review and re-write activity
• optional research task
• Essay planning activity [with booklet]
• Mark scheme

Tes paid licence How can I reuse this?

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A bundle is a package of resources grouped together to teach a particular topic, or a series of lessons, in one place.

Pulp Fiction Experimental Cinema bundle. Camera, Narrative & Auteur

This contains the lessons, each designed for the Eduqas A Level Film Studies specification. Lesson 1 - Quentin Tarantino Experimental Auteur https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-12745600 Lesson 2 - Experimental Narrative https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-12743717 Lesson 3 - Experimental Cinematography https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-12746945 Save 21% by buying this

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EXPERIMENTAL FILM ( Pulp Fiction)

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