It’s uncommon to be disappointed by a film directed by Quentin Tarantino; arguably, the only exception being Jackie Brown. His latest, The Hateful Eight, largely upholds this reputation. Despite earlier controversies involving leaked manuscripts and a temporary production halt, the film was eventually released to considerable audiences, even prompting some cinemas to revive 70mm film projection.
While The Hateful Eight is categorized as a Western, much of the film unfolds as a chamber thriller, confining a group of distinct characters to a single location. While this premise may seem limiting, Tarantino’s mastery of narrative and dialogue ensures an engaging experience throughout the film’s 168-minute runtime (video version). For a detailed synopsis of the plot, refer to Christian Moberg’s film review.
Kurt Russell and Samuel L. Jackson deliver compelling performances.Now available for home viewing, Scanbox presents a double-disc edition featuring the 35mm version (slightly shorter than the theatrical 70mm cut). The second disc includes Samuel L. Jackson’s 70mm introduction, a brief (5-minute) behind-the-scenes featurette, and a selection of trailers for other releases. The supplemental material is somewhat sparse for a dedicated disc, possibly reflecting the limited availability of content. However, the picture and sound quality on the main disc are noteworthy. The surround sound is precise, effectively utilizing wind and footsteps to build tension. A slight enhancement in the lower bass frequencies would have been welcome. The image quality is consistent with a high-quality Blu-ray transfer from film. Viewers should expect a degree of film grain, rather than the ultra-sharpness, high contrast, and vivid colors typical of modern digital productions, a characteristic that aligns with the source material. Robert Richardson’s Oscar-nominated cinematography presents as a vibrant, painterly experience on the home cinema screen. Optimal viewing may be enhanced with a glass of red wine.
70mm film projection is becoming increasingly rare. Quentin Tarantino’s efforts to preserve it are appreciated.The Hateful Eight stands as a modern classic and another significant work from Tarantino, marking his second consecutive Western. It delivers a blend of entertainment, suspense, humor, violence, and occasional provocation, complemented by exceptional performances. This film is a highly recommended addition to any collection.
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