The 1990s delivered some of the best action movies ever. Amongst all the action movies of this particular era, Quentin Tarantino's 1994 movie Pulp Fiction is undoubtedly a masterpiece that stands out from every other action movie. While some may not consider it to be as much of a high-octane film as something like Speed or Con Air, the movie is nonetheless a shot of adrenaline plunged straight into the heart thanks to several legendary scenes, and IMDb has nonetheless rated it the best action movie of the '90s.

There are many features which make Pulp Fiction an outstanding action movie, one which carved Tarantino’s role as an impressive director-- a non-linear plot which weaves three action-filled stories into a surprisingly cohesive plot; vibrant and energetic direction; a range of interesting themes and motifs; plus, critical adoration and a massive fanbase. With a star-studded cast nailing Tarantino's free-associative and wordy script, and a litany of gruesome details, Pulp Fiction has everything a high-ranking action movie should have.

A Non-Linear Plot

When a movie takes a creative leap and attempts to incorporate an unconventional technique, it can either end up as a big failure or as a massive success. Pulp Fiction's use of the non-linear narrative structure has made the movie complex and endlessly rewatchable. Rather than following one plot with one protagonist and one antagonist, this movie has different plots with different characters; except, the stories intertwine in surprising ways, so these are not mere vignettes, and this is not an anthology film. As Jean-Luc Godard, one of Tarantino's favorite filmmakers, once said, "A story should have a beginning, a middle, and an end, but not necessarily in that order."

Related: 10 Things About Pulp Fiction You Never Knew

Tarantino further explains this in an interview done with Vanity Fair where he states, “The star of one story could be a small character in the second story and a supporting character in the third story." This definitely adds much necessary depth and complexity to the film, allowing it to both breathe a little in between intense sequences and create an entertaining little meditation on time, fate, and mortality. Tarantino's leap of faith in following a non-linear narrative structure utterly succeeds in breaking up the action rather than devolving into one long, drawn-out action sequence (as so many films do), making Pulp Fiction an exceptional and unique action movie.

The back of Wing Rhames' head in Pulp Fiction Bright Colors, Upbeat Sound

Quentin Tarantino's ouevre carries a vibe that's entirely specific to himself; there is no mistaking this dector with any other, regardless of his litany of imitators. Kill Bill, with its infamous bright yellow colors, and Django Unchained, filtered through brown and beige, are just some examples of how uses a unique color palette, and Pulp Fiction is no different. Unlike most action movies, Pulp Fiction opts for a shifting color palette. The combination of black and white outfits with bright red blood and different colored cars, booths, and mugs creates an unconscious effect on the audience, ensuring how viewers remember key characters whilst and distinguishing between timelines. The constant use of red attaches itself to the themes of revenge and vengeance, along with the bloody hitman lifestyle.

The upbeat music of Pulp Fiction is another feature which grabs the attention of the viewer, with a legendary soundtrack that sparked a renewed interest in Golden Oldies. Dick Dale and the Del-tones Misirlou has become completely synonymous with the infamous opening of Tarantino's film, preparing audiences for the active energy of the film with its electrifying and rapid guitar riffs. Urge Overkill, Dusty Springfield, Chuck Berry, and Al Green also appear in now-iconic scenes.

Exploding the Genre

Thanks to the use of a non-linear narrative structure, Tarantino has been able to incorporate a variety of key themes into the movie. Each subplot carries a significant key theme which is unique and different from the rest, and yet unites to form a thematic whole. The revenge and redemption in Butch and Marsellus's story (with its iconic, action-packed samurai sword and Gimp scene) are different from Vincent and Jules' ethical and almost theological journey. Additionally, Tatantino's observation of lust (between Mia and Vincent and Butch and Fabienne, respectively) is sensual, funny, and startling. The subtleness of these romantic scenarios brings the characters into focus and raises the emotional stakes, amplifying the action and its consequences. The addition of the humor and nonchalant attitude of the film further expands the film's character, making everyone just a little more likable, weaving itself into the action seamlessly.

Related: Quentin Tarantino Movies Ranked Best to Worst

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Miramax Films

The Endless and Timeless Rankings

Pulp Fiction might have been released nearly three decades ago, but it continues to rank high on numerous lists. The film won the prestigious Palme d'Or at Cannes, beating out extremely stiff competition in a huge upset; the late, great Roger Ebert included it in his prestigious Great Movies list; the movie was nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning for Best Original Screenplay; it swept the Independent Spirit Awards. It's also been continuously rated in the best films of the decade, and Tarantino's best work.

With a top-notch cast serving outstanding performances and an ingenious director, Pulp Fiction has become a must-watch action movie. It has the right amount of every ingredient (and more) an action movie should contain-- excitement, intelligence, set-pieces, humor, romance, and an epic scope. Tarantino's innovative ability has allowed him to explore the genre further, paving the way for exceptional movies like Inglorious Basterds. Pulp Fiction will continue to rank triumphally high in this genre so long as movie lists are made.