"From the creator of 'True Romance' & 'Reservoir Dogs'"
Pulp Fiction - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men...
— Jules Winnfield
Context:
Jules recites this passage twice in the film. First, in Brett's apartment before he and Vincent kill him. Second, in the diner during the robbery, where he explains its new, personal significance to the robber, Pumpkin.
Meaning:
This quote, a heavily altered version of a biblical passage, serves as Jules's intimidating calling card before an execution. Initially, he admits he says it because it sounds "cold-blooded." However, after his epiphany, he re-examines its meaning, contemplating his own role as either the "tyranny of evil men" or the "shepherd." It becomes the philosophical centerpiece of his character's transformation.
They call it a 'Royale with Cheese.'
— Vincent Vega
Context:
In the film's opening sequence for their storyline, Vincent and Jules are driving to an apartment to execute some men who have wronged their boss. On the way, Vincent tells Jules about his time in Amsterdam and the subtle cultural differences he observed in Europe, such as what McDonald's calls a Quarter Pounder in France.
Meaning:
This line exemplifies the film's signature dialogue: mundane, pop-culture-filled conversations set against a backdrop of criminal activity. It establishes Vincent's character as someone who has been abroad and highlights the film's focus on the small, observational details of its characters' lives. The juxtaposition of this trivial chat with their impending violent job is a key element of the movie's dark humor and cool detachment.
Zed's dead, baby. Zed's dead.
— Butch Coolidge
Context:
After escaping the pawn shop, Butch returns to the motel to pick up Fabienne. She asks him about the owner of the chopper motorcycle he has acquired. He delivers this line, informing her (and the audience) of the fate of one of the men who captured and assaulted him and Marsellus.
Meaning:
This quote is a darkly comedic and laconic confirmation that the immediate threat to Butch and his girlfriend has been neutralized. It signifies the end of Butch's harrowing ordeal and his victory over his tormentors. The casual delivery encapsulates the film's tone of understated coolness in the face of extreme violence and trauma.
That's when you know you've found somebody special. When you can just shut the fuck up for a minute and comfortably enjoy the silence.
— Mia Wallace
Context:
Mia says this to Vincent at Jack Rabbit Slim's diner. It's part of her attempt to break through Vincent's professional reserve and connect with him on a more personal level during their "date."
Meaning:
This line reveals a deeper, more introspective side to Mia's character, moving beyond her cool, party-girl exterior. It speaks to a desire for genuine connection and intimacy, a theme that subtly runs through the film's disparate storylines. It's a moment of surprising sincerity in a film celebrated for its sharp, witty dialogue.