#1675 - Quentin Tarantino
NaN minutesEpisode #1675
Quentin Tarantino
Quentin Tarantino is a writer, producer, and director. Tarantino's novelization of his Oscar-winning film "Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood" is available now.
Episode Timestamps
The Journey from True Romance to Reservoir Dogs
- Discussion about using money from True Romance to fund Reservoir Dogs
- Anecdote about the partnership with Lawrence Bender and securing funds for the movie
- Reflection on the surreal journey from working at a video store to making a successful movie
Evolution of Filmmaking and Character Dynamics in Films
- Exploration of the evolution of character likability and transformations in movies
- Comparison between character development in Bill Murray and Chevy Chase movies
- Analysis of societal influences on filmmaking and character portrayals in the 80s
Chevy Chase's Early Work and Impact
- Discussion about Chevy Chase's early work and impact on comedy
- Reflection on Chevy's discomfort in the limelight over time
- Anecdote about Chevy Chase's potential dominance in the comedy scene
Quentin Tarantino's Filmmaking and Defiance
- Tarantino challenging censorship and societal norms in filmmaking
- Anecdote on Tarantino standing firm against toning down violent scenes
- Significance of Tarantino's work in shifting the tone of 90s cinema
Transition to the World of Film Festivals and Impact of Pulp Fiction
- Quentin Tarantino discusses his transition from working in a video store to the film festival circuit worldwide, experiencing a significant change in lifestyle.
- Recollection of the impact of Pulp Fiction on both personal life and the film industry, with its unique storytelling elements and influence on subsequent films.
- Exploration of creating a sub-genre in gangster films and the ripple effect of Tarantino's work on the genre.
Early Comedy Influences and Discovery of Sam Kenneson
- Tarantino's admiration for the comedy scene at the Comedy Store, encountering legendary comedians like Andrew Dice Clay and Sam Kenneson, which fueled his initial aspirations of becoming a stand-up comedian.
- Influential encounter with Sam Kenneson's material through a colleague, leading to a profound impact on Tarantino's perspective and humor.
- Anecdote of discovering Kenneson's darkly comedic HBO special and the memorable impression it left, emphasizing the influence of these experiences on his comedic style.
Impact of Brain Injuries on Personality and Creativity
- Discussion on individuals like Sam Kinison and Roseanne Barr who experienced brain injuries and underwent significant personality changes
- Exploration of the impulsive and wild behavior that can result from brain injuries
- Consideration of how brain injuries can spark creativity and revolutionize a person's approach to their craft
Evolution and Transformation in Comedy Performance
- Reflection on the comedy scene and transition from impressions to stand-up comedy
- Anecdotes about comedians like Jim Carrey and Sam Kinison evolving their acts
- Insight into the challenges faced by comedians in redefining their performance style and material
John Travolta's Resurgence in Pulp Fiction
- Discussion of casting John Travolta in the pivotal role in Pulp Fiction despite industry skepticism
- Impact of Travolta's performance leading to a career resurgence and critical acclaim
- Reflections on the novelty and success of Travolta's comeback in the film industry
Editing Process and Fresh Perspective
- Insights into the post-production phase of filmmaking and editing duration
- Exploration of the creative process in editing and maintaining a fresh perspective
- Addressing the speculation about an extended cut of 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' and considerations for its potential release
Writing process and Character Development
- Discussion on Tarantino's writing process starting from the first scene and evolving through the development of the story
- Explanation of how Tarantino's characters become real to him by the middle of the story
- Description of Tarantino's shift to a more professional writing routine during the daytime
Development of Kill Bill and Casting
- Insight into the inspiration behind Kill Bill and the development of the Deadly Vipers characters
- Explanation of the decision to split Kill Bill into two parts
- Anecdotes about Uma Thurman's dedication to the role and the casting of Zoe Bell as her stunt double turned actress
Filming Death Proof: Challenges and Precautions
- Scenes involving high-speed car actions discussed
- Details of the safety measures taken to protect the actress during risky scenes
- Anecdotes about challenges faced during the car chase filming, including repeated accidents
Concept of 'Death-Proof' Car and Filming Realistic Collisions
- Origin of the 'Death-Proof' car concept and its relation to slasher films
- Description of filming the head-on collision scene with real people instead of CGI
- Details on the creation of the realistic collision scenes using practical effects and dummies
Creating 'Death Proof' and Collaborating with Kurt Russell
- Quentin Tarantino's experience of making 'Death Proof' in Austin and how it was influenced by his connections in the city
- Originally wanted Mickey Rourke for a role, but eventually cast Kurt Russell after issues with Rourke's agents
- Discussion on the film industry, agents' interference, and the importance of good relationships like the one Tarantino has with Kurt Russell
On Retirement and Future Plans
- Tarantino's commitment to making 10 films and the reasons behind setting this limit
- Exploration of why Tarantino plans to retire after his next film and his concept of leaving the audience wanting more
- Emotional reflection on Tarantino's new role as a father and the impact of parenthood on his life
Writing Books and Screenplays: From Novelizations to Original Works
- Discussion about writing novels and cinema books alongside screenplay writing
- Process of coming up with movie ideas, developing characters, and using music inspiration
- Evolution of script from book form to play and then screenplay
Research and Crafting 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'
- Extensive research on the Manson family and discussions with Tom O'Neill
- Engagement with historical events and the progression of writing from book to screenplay
- Theories and doubts surrounding Manson's motivations and actions
Analysis of Manson Family Murders and Cliff's Character in 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'
- Discussion on the inconsistencies in the Manson family murder plan and speculations on the motives behind the killings
- Interpretation of Cliff's character as a formidable and calculated individual in the movie 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'
- Insights into Quentin Tarantino's approach to altering historical timelines for storytelling purposes
Bruce Lee's Portrayal and Fight Scene Interpretation in the Movie
- Exploration of the controversial Bruce Lee scenes in 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' and the debate around his portrayal
- Analysis of the fight sequence between Cliff and Bruce Lee, emphasizing Cliff's tactical approach
- Details on the historical conflicts between Bruce Lee and American stuntmen, shedding light on the professional dynamics in the film industry
Bruce Lee's Impact on Martial Arts and Jikun Do
- Exploration of Bruce Lee's size and skills in comparison to traditional martial artists
- Introduction of Jikun Do as a combination of various martial arts by Bruce Lee
- Discussion on Bruce Lee's influence on martial arts industry despite criticisms
Unique Filmmaking Vision of Quentin Tarantino
- Analysis of Quentin Tarantino's attitude towards controversy in filmmaking
- Discussion on handling controversial scenes and themes in Tarantino's films
- Reflections on the challenges and freedoms of maintaining a unique filmmaking vision in a collaborative industry
Controversy in Films and Academic Criticism
- Discussion on the necessity of controversy in films according to Joe Rogan
- Exploration of academic criticism and its impact on filmmakers
- Joe Rogan's views on the politicalization of film critiques
Reflections on Film Criticism and Future Projects
- Joe Rogan's approach towards handling film criticism and personal viewpoints
- Discourse on the reception of 'The Hateful Eight' and its tone
- Teasing potential future projects like 'Kill Bill 3' and stage versions of 'Reservoir Dogs'
The Controversy Surrounding the Creation of the TV Show Kung Fu
- Discussion on the biography 'Endless Highway' and its resemblance to Mark Twain and Charles Dickens' writing styles
- Debunking the claim that Bruce Lee came up with the idea for the TV show 'Kung Fu' and the alleged plagiarism by Warner Brothers
- Exploration of the conflicts surrounding the creation of 'Kung Fu' and the involvement of different individuals like Ed Abramson, David Carradine, and Bruce Lee
Analysis of Cultural Impact and Legal Battles around 'Kung Fu'
- Review of Bruce Lee's involvement in 'Kung Fu' casting process and the eventual role going to David Carradine
- Discussions on the accusations of plagiarism between the TV show 'Kung Fu' and Bruce Lee's own concepts
- Mentions of the ongoing legal battles and conflicts surrounding the origins of 'Kung Fu' and potential lawsuits
Creation and Impact of the TV show 'Kung Fu'
- Discussion on the creation of 'Kung Fu' and the approach to writing scenes by only allowing the show's writers to do so
- Examples of profound and impactful moments from the show, highlighting deep philosophical dialogues and character development
- Impact of 'Kung Fu' on martial arts genre and its contribution to the rise of martial arts movies
Reflections on Career and Filmmaking Experience
- Reflection on a successful and satisfying career in the film industry starting from independent filmmaking to big-budget productions
- Discussion on the evolution of filmmaking techniques such as practical effects versus CGI
- Positive remarks on the advancement of CGI technology in modern filmmaking
Filmmaking and Acting Realism
- Discussion on the importance of real stunts, sets, and practical effects in filmmaking
- Example of the movie 'Cutthroat Island' as an impressive display of real action scenes
- Conversation about playing intense and realistic characters in movies like 'From Dusk Till Dawn'
Balancing Personal Life and Career Choices
- Impact of personal relationships on career choices in the film industry
- Reflecting on the influence of relationships on decision-making, including turning down acting roles
- Expressing gratitude for the freedom to choose career paths and staying true to personal values
Exploring Films of the 80s and Video Store Experience
- Discussion on the lack of impactful cinema in the 80s and the search for unique films
- Highlighting specific movies like 'Year of the Dragon' and 'Flesh Plus Blood' that resonated with the speaker
- Reflection on a unique Conan movie adaptation and desire for a true representation in film
Conan Movies and Comic Book Influences
- Conversation about the portrayal of Conan in movies and the desire for an authentic adaptation
- Mention of Jason Momoa's portrayal as a closer fit to the character's essence
- Comparison of different Conan movie adaptations and their alignment with the original comic book series