QT8: THE FIRST EIGHT / CERT: 15 / DIRECTOR: TARA WOOD / STARRING: JENNIFER JASON LEIGH, SAMUEL L. JACKSON, KURT RUSSELL / RELEASE DATE: 16TH DECEMBER
“We are going to do one more take. Why? Because we love making movies!”
Quentin Tarantino is one of the most ground-breaking directors / writers of the last 30 years. Each film is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before and, as that addiction for giving intricate scope to every scene has been pushed even further over time, the more legendary his game-changing resume has rightfully become. By showcasing a slow-burner feeling that organically lures you into novel-like operas, he has a rulebreaking ethic that has supplied shock factor moments, fulfilling revenge conclusions and controversial ideas that others wouldn’t dare try to take on, all while enhancing the careers of many well-respected actors.
The attention to detail in this output is very high. For example, when any working associate arrives on screen to reflect on this voyage, we get neat Tarantino-themed graphics telling you exactly which instalment they’ve been a part of. Equally covering every film, you are bombarded with a varied and high calibre list of special guests that fondly reminisce on the current film in discussion. This is a refreshing asset, because documentaries can become stagnant when there are just a couple of guests throughout. Director Tara Wood seamlessly links all of this together by suitably cutting its length into chapters (a Tarantino trademark), with quirky animated scenes that explore overlooked memories of a rollercoaster past.
Putting a microscope on how this once video store employee now works with his close-knit actors and team to construct the absolute best result, you hear many delightful stories that give you a grand look at his general character and personality. Constantly brimming with trivia (did you know that Michael Madsen nearly played Vincent Vega in Pulp Fiction?), QT8 unveils how he uses real life environments, self-designed products (Red Apple Tobacco) and colourful practical effects to paint that otherworldly imagination. Tarantino’s complete obsession for cinema really does comes across.
When you collaborate with The Weinstein Company for a heavy amount of time, then unfortunately this release wasn’t going to get away without at least a little look at this part of his life. With a section narrated by the awesome Michael Madsen, we get a brief and careful evaluation of this diverse relationship.
With the huge respect that is felt from long-time colleagues (who would probably be described as family by the man in question) throughout, supported by emotional moments, this is a stacked presentation that by leaving you with a new-found insight will have you putting on your favourite Tarantino masterpiece as soon as the credits end. Stunningly describing his creative blueprints and infectious personality, QT8 hits the mark when it comes to showing off Tarantino’s special and highly influential career.
