ALONG with a couple of hundred others, I was lucky enough to first see Tarantino’s latest opus in the presence of the great man himself, courtesy of his well-received visit to Fact last year.

I really enjoyed it then, and I still really enjoy it now. The problem for Tarantino is expectation levels.

People expect another genre-creating film like Pulp Fiction or Reservoir Dogs.
Death Proof is not that but, as intended, a thoroughly enjoyable homage to some of the great ’70s chase films (Vanishing Point springs to mind) and the odd slasher movie.

The plot involves Kurt Russell (his star reborn here) as Mike, a crazy ex- Stuntman who gets his kicks by engaging attractive young women in terrifying car chases which leave them dead. It’s superbly acted, with Russell perfect in the lead role and the independent, sexy spirits of the girls brilliantly brought to life by the likes of Rosario Dawson, Rose McGowan and real-life stuntwoman Zoe Bell.

The closing chase itself is 18 minutes long and filmed in one superb take, though the ending is rather abrupt.

The extras include an entire disc of extra features. Leave your expectations at the door and stick your foot down – it’s a great ride.

Rating: 4/5
Extras: 4/5
AK

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