preview

Neo Noir Elements In Pulp Fiction

Decent Essays

The classical Hollywood narrative is one of simplicity, linear continuity, and comprehensive storytelling, something typical American audiences were used to for most of films history. Quentin Tarantino, however, is not one to abide by the rules of cinema. The arguably auteur director reconfigures this narrative style with his 1994 classic Pulp Fiction. This film not only presented itself as a completely new and innovative take on what a film could be, but also created a foundation for which many films since have built their narratives from. These aspects will be analyzed through reference to specific scenes and elements within the film, and expanded upon in order to demonstrate their effectiveness. With its nonlinear narrative, Pulp Fiction …show more content…

The neo-noir aspects of the film include those of antiheros, dramatic murders and deaths, and untraditional cinematography. For these reasons, the film has been associated with the neo-noir genre by some, but the film could also be seen at times as a crime movie, a comedy (a dark one at that), a gangster film, or even a drama. By containing all of these potential genres, it’s pretty much impossible to categorize the film. Pulp Fiction itself seems to be aware of the genre categorization process, and aims to stand alone, away from the classification of films. The films break from genre was another trailblazing aspect of it, and was something that set it apart from any other film. Most classical Hollywood narration films are easily categorized, but Pulp Fiction proves to be one-of-a-kind and even goes on to inspire other genre-breaking films in the …show more content…

Whether it be Jules’ recitation of Ezekiel 25:17 and his expansion on it in the diner, Vincent’s conversations with Mia, or Butch’s interactions with Fabienne, every line they say adds to their character and forms who they are and how the audience perceives them. Of course, like any character, their actions are extremely important, but Tarantino utilizes the characters’ dialogue to add what action can’t. This technique makes the characters so much more realistic and believable. As a result of this added depth, Pulp Fiction and its characters stand out from those of traditional Hollywood

Get Access