50 Facts About the Film ‘The Hateful Eight’ by Quentin Tarantino

Written & Compiled by: Harold A. Martin

1. "The Hateful Eight" is a western film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino.             

2. It was released in 2015.

3. The film stars Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Walton Goggins, among others.

4. Tarantino initially conceived the film as a sequel to his previous film, "Django Unchained."

5. The story takes place in Wyoming during the winter of 1877.

6. The film's title refers to the eight main characters, who are all morally ambiguous and deceitful.

7. "The Hateful Eight" was shot using Ultra Panavision 70, a rare and wide aspect ratio format.

8. Tarantino used the same film format as classics like "Ben-Hur" and "Mutiny on the Bounty" to achieve a vintage look.

9. The film's runtime is approximately 3 hours and 7 minutes.

10. Ennio Morricone composed the film's score, which won him an Academy Award.
11. "The Hateful Eight" was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Jennifer Jason Leigh.

12. The film's opening credits were designed by the late graphic designer Pablo Ferro.

13. It was the first time Tarantino worked with cinematographer Robert Richardson since "Kill Bill: Volume 1."

14. Tarantino built a replica of Minnie's Haberdashery, the main setting of the film, on a ranch in Colorado.

15. The film's script was leaked online in early 2014, prompting Tarantino to consider canceling the project.

16. Tarantino eventually decided to proceed with the film, making some revisions to the leaked script.

17. "The Hateful Eight" pays homage to classic westerns, particularly those directed by Sergio Leone.

18. The film's dialogue is known for its sharpness and wit, a trademark of Tarantino's writing.

19. Tarantino had initially planned to shoot the film in 2014, but postponed production due to the script leak.

20. The film's release was accompanied by a limited roadshow engagement in 70mm format, complete with an overture and intermission.

21. Tarantino has stated that the film was inspired by Agatha Christie's mystery novels.

22. "The Hateful Eight" features a diverse cast, with actors from different backgrounds and ethnicities.

23. The film explores themes of racism, violence, and justice in a post-Civil War setting.

24. Tarantino's regular collaborator, Tim Roth, was originally considered for a role, but scheduling conflicts prevented his involvement.

25. The film was praised for its ensemble cast's performances, particularly Jennifer Jason Leigh's portrayal of the character Daisy Domergue.

26. "The Hateful Eight" was filmed in the winter, which added to the authenticity of the snowy landscapes.

27. The film's production designer, Yohei Taneda, meticulously recreated the interior of Minnie's Haberdashery.

28. "The Hateful Eight" marks Tarantino's eighth feature film, hence the title.

29. The film's violence is graphic and intense, as is typical of Tarantino's work.

30. Tarantino has described "The Hateful Eight" as a "whodunit" set in the Old West.

31. The film's release was accompanied by a controversy surrounding Tarantino's comments on police brutality, which led to calls for a boycott.

32. Tarantino has said that "The Hateful Eight" is his most political film to date.
33. The film's narrative is non-linear, with multiple flashbacks and revelations.

34. "The Hateful Eight" was influenced by classic westerns like "The Great Silence" and "The Wild Bunch."

35. The film's dialogue was praised for its sharpness and memorable lines.

36. "The Hateful Eight" was Tarantino's second film to be released in 70mm format, following "Django Unchained."

37. The film's soundtrack features songs by artists such as Roy Orbison and The White Stripes.

38. Tarantino has stated that "The Hateful Eight" is his most dialogue-driven film.
39. The film's script was over 160 pages long, indicating its dense and intricate storytelling.

40. "The Hateful Eight" was nominated for three Golden Globe Awards, including Best Screenplay and Best Original Score.

41. Tarantino's longtime editor, Sally Menke, passed away before the production of "The Hateful Eight." The film is dedicated to her memory.

42. The film's release was accompanied by a 12-minute prologue titled "The Hateful Eight: 70mm Roadshow."

43. "The Hateful Eight" was praised for its detailed production design and attention to period authenticity.

44. The film's premiere was held at the Cinerama Dome in Los Angeles, where the 70mm format was showcased.

45. Tarantino has expressed interest in adapting "The Hateful Eight" into a stage play.

46. The film's marketing campaign emphasized the ensemble cast and the mystery surrounding the characters' true motives.

47. "The Hateful Eight" was a box office success, grossing over $155 million worldwide.
48. The film received generally positive reviews from critics, with praise for its performances and Tarantino's direction.

49. Tarantino has stated that he may release an extended version of "The Hateful Eight" in the future.

50. "The Hateful Eight" has become a favorite among Tarantino fans, known for its homages to classic westerns, award-winning score, and its gritty dialogue.

Hope you enjoyed this spotlight on a winter-themed western!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM WELLDONEMOVIES.COM

5 Unconventional Christmas Movies to Watch During the Holidays

Written & Edited by: Lee Fenton

1. Scrooged

Scrooged is a modern day retelling of the beloved holiday classic: Charles Dickens - A Christmas Carol. It stars Bill Murray as a television producer that has a lot in common with the iconic Ebenezer Scrooge. Although critics and fans agree this isn’t Bill Murray’s best work, it still manages some laugh-out-loud funny moments with that hint of sarcastic wit that’s a trademark of Murray’s style. 7/10

2. Bad Santa

Billy Bob Thornton is not your average mall Santa. For one - he’s crass. Secondly, he’s piss-ass drunk and not to mention the guy is just downright rude. Also, he’s constantly ‘casing the place’ because see, that's his real job - to rob the shopping-center blind the night of Christmas Eve. This film is loosely inspired by the Dr. Seuss classic ‘The Grinch That Stole Christmas’. 

Once you look past the shock-comedy and pessimistic overtones…

the similarities are glaringly obvious. 9/10

3. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Chevy Chase is just one of those comic actors that makes me laugh every time he’s on-screen. There’s no two ways about it, the man is a comedic genius.

This one is considered a classic nowadays - but when it was originally released it was seen as a rather rebellious take on the traditional holiday movie. Released by the same people that brought the world ‘Animal House’ and ‘Caddyshack’ the film stars the hugely funny Chevy Chase a man that most consider a comic genius. He pretty much re-popularized the prat-fall and physical comedy for a new generation, in the tradition of early comedy legends like the Three Stooge’s and Charlie Chaplin.

 Needless to say, this movie is one I love to death. It was already the third in a series of four films, so the fact that the writers still had jokes to tell with these characters - was quite impressive.

If you haven’t seen it yet… watch it this holiday and

spend some quality time with the ‘Griswold’ family.

Just avoid Cousin 'Eddy’ at all cost.

8.5/10

4. Go

Go is a fast paced, high-octane movie detailing an ecstasy deal gone wrong. It takes place during the holidays and features a rave with a 30ft tall green Frankenstein-Santa - hell, what’s more alt-christmas then that? This wacky and weird holiday movie features a still undiscovered Timothy Olyphant as the antagonist, as well as Katie Holmes in a smaller role. The narrative is told in a non linear fashion similar to the films 'Resevoir Dogs' or 'Pulp Fiction'. In a similar vein to Tarantino’s filmmaking, it showcases natural sounding dialogue in between intense scenes of action and drama.

This movie has long been a favorite of mine. 8/10

5. Reindeer Games

I considered putting Die Hard on this list, but then I realized how obvious that was. And yes, it’s a very good film, and it’s a Christmas movie (I’ve always been on the right side of that eternal debate).

But instead, I’ve decided to bring some much needed attention to a more obscure title: Reindeer Games.

This film wasn’t well received upon release and its reception has not improved much over the years.

I’m going to try to change that! 

To me, it’s a wonderfully low-budget crime drama; starring Ben Affleck in the lead and Gary Sinese as the villain. Sinese doesn’t turn in quite the performance he did in ‘Ransom’ (acting opposite Mel Gibson) but all-in-all Reindeer Games is a competently directed film with lots of twists and turns plot wise to make up for it’s un-impressing mise-en-scene and lack of set-pieces.

In other words, yes - a large part of this movie is just heated dialogue and guns being waved around. If the acting was top notch, it might have won some awards, instead I’m here stuck defending it. It’s a mid-tier thriller with a Christmas vibe to it.

What the hell is so wrong with that, people? 

Hell if you're not in a ‘grinchy’ mood - it’s a pretty good watch.

6 / 10 for rating.

"RRR": An Epic Telugu Rollercoaster of Action,Humor, and Over-the-Top Goodness

Written by: Laraib Rajpoot Click here to hire this writer

"RRR" the movie; it's a Telugu language spectacle directed by the one and only S.S. Rajamouli, standing for "Rise Roar Revolt." Released in 2022, this action-packed epic has taken both critics and audiences by storm, boasting a jaw-dropping 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes1. But let's dive into this rollercoaster of cinematic delight, shall we?

Picture this: an anti-colonial fable and a buddy drama that stars the fictionalized combo of two real-life freedom fighters, Komaram Bheem (N.T. Rama Rao Jr.) and Alluri Sitarama Raju (Ram Charan). You've got a recipe for history-meets-hilarity right there. And if that weren't enough, Rajamouli, the directorial magician, serves up a grand showcase of his signature style – think maximalist action choreography, jaw-dropping stunts, pyrotechnics that could light up the night sky, and computer graphics that will have your eyes popping.

Now, let's talk reviews. Critics and audiences aren't just clapping; they're roaring with approval. A whopping 95% on Rotten Tomatoes isn't just impressive; it's like finding an extra French fry in your takeout bag. And trust me, this cinematic dish is full of delicious details that will leave you craving more.

In the heart of Delhi in the 1920s, "RRR" takes center stage. But wait, don't reach for your history books just yet. Rajamouli, the cinematic sorcerer, has a different plan. He tosses historical context aside like a mic drop, transforming a simple rescue mission into a rallying cry for unity and some good ol' cathartic violence. We're talking avenging shepherds, kidnappers, cartoonishly evil British governors, and a side of peerless Colonial police officers. It's like a buffet of excitement and intrigue.

But hold on, there's more.

Rajamouli's love for drama shines brighter than a spotlight on a Hollywood stage. Our heroes, Bheem and Raju, form an unexpected bond while saving a child from a runaway train. It's like a Cecil B. DeMille-style melodrama with a dash of Rajamouli's unique flair. And if that weren't enough, you've got influences like "Ben Hur" and the action-packed period dramas of fellow visionary Mel Gibson. It's cinematic synergy at its finest.

Now, let's talk Rajamouli's breakthrough masterpiece. "RRR" isn't just about heroes; it's about inspiring symbols of patriotism and boundary-breaking. Rajamouli, the master of mixing the unexpected, sprinkles his love for violence and brash slogans into his signature mix of action and dance.

The result?

Fight scenes and dance numbers that will leave you cheering and wanting more. And let's not forget the cast. Rama Rao Jr. takes on the role of Bheem with a naively sweet touch that's hard to resist. His messianic qualities shine through in scenes that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

In a nutshell, "RRR" is like a three-hour feast of action, humor, and cinematic magic. It's a reminder that cinema isn't just about sitting back; it's about strapping in and enjoying the ride. From history lessons to heart-pounding action, this film has it all. So, if you're in the mood for an exhilarating journey that's as easy to understand, as it is over-the-top, "RRR" is your ticket to Telugu cinema paradise. Get ready to rise, roar, and revel in the epic madness!

Rating 10/10

Authentic Tika-Masala made with lime & yogurt marinated chicken,

skewered and char-broiled well done.

“Yum, Unbelievable flavor!”

"The Matrix Resurrections" - A Glorious, Guffaw-Inducing Revival (A Totally Satirical Review)

Written by: Laraib Rajpoot click here to hire this writer

Revised and edited by: Lee Fenton

Additional Writing by: Lee Fenton

This article was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the hard work and dedication of the writers and actors, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist. In fact, no films or television would.

We stand in solidarity.

Hold onto your virtual seats, folks, because Keanu Reeves is back in black leather and ready to dodge bullets like he's swatting away pesky paparazzi. "The Matrix Resurrections" has arrived (alright, a few years ago now), and it's more confusingly fun than explaining memes to your grandma.

Neo, or should we say Mr. Middle-Aged Matrix Man, is living the suburban dream – complete with office meetings that drone on longer than a sloth on Ambien. Forget bending spoons, he's now trying to bend corporate rules, and his superpower is resisting the urge to doze off in Zoom meetings. The Matrix may have resurrected him, but Keanu's enthusiasm got lost in his inbox.

Enter Trinity (Carrie Anne-Moss), who's not only resurrected but also rocking an immaculate hairstyle that defies both gravity and the laws of physics. Her first meeting with Neo is as an awkward meet-cute, reminding us that even epic love stories have their "Oops, I did it again" moments. Their chemistry is so potent that it could power a small city – or at least the servers that keep Twitter debates alive.

Blink and you miss them characters have leveled up too, with Priyanka Chopra Jonas (Sati, the girl in the train station in Matrix Revolutions) donning designer gear that makes you wonder if she raided the closets of every fashionista in cinematic history. The Analyst's evil plan isn’t as convoluted as the Architect’s, no it’s more like a Windows software update – necessary and its got more bugs than a roach motel.

Prepare for action scenes that leave you gasping like a fish out of water. The choreography is so mindbogglingly impressive that you might just consider joining a dojo after the credits roll. Or, you know, at least attempt a cartwheel in your living room, much to your pet's amusement.

Easter eggs? Oh, they're scattered like confetti at a surprise birthday party. From red and blue pills that now come in emoji form to déjà vu moments that hit harder than realizing you left your phone in a public restroom, the film's creators clearly decided to play "Spot the Nostalgia" with us. The audience better buckle up, because this ride has more twists than a pretzel convention. Just when you think you've deciphered the matrix, the movie throws a curve-ball that leaves you more perplexed than a cat trying to comprehend why the red dot keeps vanishing.

In conclusion, "The Matrix Resurrections" is a buffet of wacky action, mind-bending concepts, and nostalgia-laden delights. While it might not reach the legendary status of its predecessors, it's a joyride that slaps a grin on your face faster than your latest facebook post enjoyed at the office. So grab your popcorn, your "I'm-so-confused" expression, and enjoy a resurrection that's quirkier than a cat wearing a tuxedo. (That's what resurrection's are supposed to be, right?)

This movie might just make you question reality, or at the very least, wonder if your neighbor's dog is a secret agent.

6.5/10

It’s artificial food, good but does nothing for your hunger.

Grilled NFT sandwich, anyone?