One of the central criticisms of “The Hateful Eight” was its excessive violence and graphic content. Tarantino is known for his use of violence in his films, and “The Hateful Eight” is no exception. The film features multiple scenes of brutal violence, including a scene where a character’s brains are blown out and another where a group of men are shot in the head. While some argue that Tarantino’s use of violence is necessary for the story, others believe it is gratuitous and unnecessary.
Another criticism of the film was its slow pacing. Clocking in at just over three hours, “The Hateful Eight” can be a slow burn for some viewers. The majority of the film takes place inside the cramped cabin, where tensions rise as the characters’ true motives are revealed. However, some argue that the film’s slow pacing is necessary to build tension and suspense.
Despite these criticisms, some argue that “The Hateful Eight” is one of Tarantino’s strongest films. The film’s ensemble cast delivers outstanding performances, particularly Samuel L. Jackson as Major Marquis Warren and Jennifer Jason Leigh as Daisy Domergue. The film’s cinematography captures the desolate Wyoming landscape beautifully, and the score, composed by Ennio Morricone, is haunting and perfectly sets the tone for the film.
One of the most interesting aspects of ” The Hateful Eight” is its exploration of race and power dynamics. The film is set shortly after the Civil War, and tensions between white and black characters are palpable. Major Marquis Warren, a black Union soldier, takes on a powerful role in the film, proving to be just as cunning and dangerous as the white characters who underestimate him. The film also explores the idea of white male power and the abuse of that power, as seen in the character of John Ruth (played by Kurt Russell), a bounty hunter who physically abuses the female character Daisy Domergue throughout the film.
Overall, “The Hateful Eight” is a polarizing film that elicits strong reactions from audiences. Some believe it’s one of Tarantino’s best works, while others criticize the excessive violence and slow pacing. However, what cannot be denied is the film’s exceptional performances, beautiful cinematography, and exploration of race and power dynamics. It’s a film that leaves an impression, whether positive or negative, and will undoubtedly continue to be analyzed and debated for years to come.