Jackie Brown

It's a bit horrifying that it took me this long to share my thoughts on this almost quarter-century-old movie (a classic, actually). So, I treated myself to a rewatch today, and I'm even more convinced that I genuinely admire Quentin Tarantino, even if this film doesn't fit the typical Tarantino mold for me. The story's pace was notably slow; I didn't notice any final acceleration, and there was a lack of those sudden bursts of unrestrained violence. All that remained were your classic plotting, counter-plotting, intrigue, and manipulation. Now, that might sound like criticism, but it's not. On the contrary, I've got to give props to this film. The slow pace didn't dampen my overall impression at all. The occasional killing in this calm atmosphere had a real impact, and even though it ran for more than two hours, I didn't find a dull moment. / Lesson learned: Don't mess with a sweaty Italian. (08/11/2022)

It's my least favorite Tarantino film, but probably only because I absolutely adore the others. Jackie Brown is definitely not a weak film, it's just not as gritty. Tarantino once again shows that he can do incredible things with a camera. This time, it absolutely adores Pam Grier, completely understandably. A great showcase of excellent actors who work with a weaker Tarantino screenplay. (01/06/2014)

The film adaptations of Elmore Leonard's novels, such as Soderbergh's Out of Sight or Jackie Brown, have something in common: a plot that flows slowly. But I don't feel bored, because in both cases a skilful director is behind the camera and the result is a cool spectacle. Of course, anyone expecting another Pulp Fiction must will have been disappointed. Tarantino intended no such thing, he even declared: “To make another Pulp Fiction? That would be boring.” He tried something else and I’m happy with it. I would highlight in particular the sensitively portrayed relationship of the two main characters (Forster-Grier) and the idea of the cyclical repetition of the plot in the supermarket scene. Tarantino just knows what he's doing, no matter what he's doing. (21/07/2002)

You look at Tarantino's filmography, you click on Jackie Brown... And you finds out it's not rated. Five stars are now a certainty, although I wasn't as enthusiastic at first. Jackie Brown is a beautiful tribute (not just, but very much) to Brian De Palma, with the great Pam Grier in the lead and the irresistibly rogue Robert De Niro in the supporting role. The more times I see this movie, the more I like it. (03/02/2013)

An impressive un-Tarantino-like Tarantino movie. Exceptional acting performances (Samuel L. Jackson was even cooler than he is normally ;) and a talent for storytelling make Jackie an excellent watch. Perhaps not achieving the same quality as Reservoir Dogs or Pulp Fiction, but still extremely high standard. (24/11/2007)