Jackie Brown

In 1997, Quentin Tarantino brought to the screen a film misunderstood by critics and audiences alike.  The movie was considered a failure and did not exceed expectations of Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction.  With Jackie Brown, you really have to look past those films, while watching it.  Jackie Brown is its own entity in the Tarantino universe.  

Unlike Pulp, Jackie Brown focuses more on story telling and character development.  It deals with the theme of getting old and an interesting plot that draws you into the film.  It also helps that Samuel L. Jackson delivers an outstanding performance as the gangster/arms dealer Ordell Robbie.  Pam Grier is also exceptional as Jackie Brown. Robert Forster was stunning and his performance earned him an Oscar nomination for his role as Max Cherry, the bail bondsman.  

Speaking of cast mates,  Michael Keaton, Robert DeNiro, Bridget Fonda and Chris Tucker round out the rest of this all-star ensemble.  I was a little disappointed that DeNiro wasn't used much in the film.  But, maybe that's the way DeNiro wanted it.  He has led and carried movies for years.  Maybe this is his time to take a back seat in the film.

Either way you look at it, Jackie Brown is a great movie.  Viewers just need to keep an open mind.

 ☆☆☆☆