The unique style of storytelling in Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction made the movie even more artistic, compelling, and full of substance. The director’s choice to narrate the plot in a non-linear format is not merely a random choice but a way to make the viewers realize that each part of it is equally important to paint the whole picture.
There’s no denying that this two-and-a-half-hour masterpiece shaped the cinema and catapulted Tarantino to fame. It may be difficult to make sense of it all, but here’s a guide to help you understand the context.
What’s The Correct Order Of Events In Pulp Fiction?
Prelude To Gold Watch
Viewers witness a young Butch Coolidge, played by Bruce Willis, meeting Captain Koons, portrayed by Christopher Walken in a flashback scene set in the 1960s. After Coolidge’s father passes away, Captain Koons retrieves the valuable gold watch and gives it to him, accompanied by a striking monologue. The watch is a treasured item for generations.
Prelude To Vincent Vega And Marsellus Wallace’s Wife
John Travolta’s and Samuel L. Jackson’s characters, Vincent and Jules, appeared to be in service under gang leader Marsellus Wallace. A casual drive and conversation turned into a violent confrontation when they reached Marsellus’ debtor’s apartment.
The Bonnie Situation
After a hostage situation occurred, Vincent and Jules were left soaking in blood. They decided to go to Quentin Tarantino’s Jimmie to have the car cleaned by professionals and to get them a new wardrobe.
Prologue — The Diner
The scene takes place in the Hawthorne Grill diner where Pumpkin and Honey Bunny contemplate their illegal activities, including considering less risky stores than liquor shops. In the end, they decided to rob the restaurant, and to the viewers’ surprise, Vincent and Jules were also in the same location.
Epilogue — The Diner
Jules spoke with the robbers and made a deal to offer them money instead of taking Marsellus Wallace’s briefcase. All’s well that ends well as Pumpkin and Honey Bunny leave the vicinity with their cash and the briefcase safe with Vincent and Jules.
The Present-Day Prelude To The Gold Watch
The audience sees Butch wakened from a dream in which Captain Koons hands him the precious gold watch. He is reminded of his family’s honor and dignity as soldiers, which leads to a change in his plan. But instead, he accidentally kills his adversary.
Vincent Vega And Marsellus Wallace’s Wife
While Marsellus had some business to do, Vincent accompanied his wife Mia to a diner where she overdosed on heroin. He quickly brought her to a drug dealer to seek help, eventually giving Mia an adrenaline shot and bringing her home.
The Gold Watch
After Butch executed his enemy, he planned to hide with his girlfriend. Unfortunately, she forgets to take the watch so Butch had to go back to retrieve it. He sees Vincent on the toilet and has to kill him as well in self-defense. Butch rescues Marsellus and agreed to never speak of the incident. He and his girlfriend leave town.