Quick Review: This is the only script Tarantino did that he didn't want to direct himself. When he originally wrote it, he was just another moviemaker. Now, he is a cult figure. Among other things, that means that anything he puts his name on is treated as a work of genius by his more avid fans. Let's distinguish between this work and his genuinely inspired creations like Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction. I'll never forget the enthusiastic, boyish guy I interviewed before each of them opened. I know that Quentin Tarantino, and let me tell you, this film is not a product of that Quentin Tarantino. It's a pastiche of elements; in essence, although he's just as likeable as ever, Quentin is not subjecting himself to the self-criticism that was an important part of his younger days. True, it's an interesting film due to the shotgun blast of elements, but it's also a muddy, wandering film for the same reasons. Having said that, the performances by Keitel, Lewis, Tarantino himself, and especially George Clooney in the charismatic leads are excellent, as is the visual work by Rodriguez.
Excerpts from Patrick Stoner's interview with Quentin Tarantino and George Clooney.