Many DVDs and Blu-rays have commentaries attached — with writers, directors, actors, make-up artists, etc. — that give you insider information on the work. They provide funny anecdotes, tell you how that crazy pan that turns into a track-and-follow shot was conceived, and why Actor A is wearing that weird hat in your favorite scene. Jokes aside, they are often fascinating insights into a production, letting you go behind the curtain of a set and experiencing the film in a new light. Generally, however, no one on a film’s own commentary delves into their film’s structure, writing, and methods of building written tension, as most filmmakers just don’t pat themselves on the back like that. That is what’s so intriguing about Darren from Must See Films‘ full-length commentary for Quentin Tarantino‘s seminal, ’90s-defining classic Pulp Fiction: he is staring critically (albeit lovingly) at the work while he watches.
He discusses, among many things, the importance of building a familiarity with characters so that when they are thrown into a crazy situation later, it is impactful and has meaning. He also discusses — in partial conjunction with the previous note — Tarantino’s affinity for a slow buildup before action. First, you get to know characters, the spatial rendering, and the stakes before all hell breaks loose, causing the bloodshed to be more meaningful.
Listen to the full commentary below — which Darren recommends you watch along with him (timestamp included).