The Hateful Eight: there’s no denying that Quentin Tarantino has a great ear for over-the-top, entertaining dialogue; in this film, however, there’s simply too much of it, making it somewhat self-indulgent. There’s not much a story as there is a starting situation, and the pace is ponderous early on as it introduces the characters unhurriedly. Nevertheless, it’s an engaging experience (if one is not turned off by graphical violence and colorful, to say the least, language). Part of it comes from the excellent cast, gamely reading the dialogue; Samuel L. Jackson and Tim Roth are given the choicest roles, and Jennifer Jason Leigh is likewise solid. Part of it comes from the top-notch technical aspects; Ennio Morricone’s score is great, moody (and not Western-like at all); the set (where most of the action takes place) is richly conceived. It’s the cinematography of Robert Richardson, however, that is the highlight; beautifully lit and framed, making great use of the space.