Pulp Fiction features some of the most iconic antagonists. Out of them, Zed (Peter Greene) and Maynard (Duane Whitaker) are the ones I fear the most. So, when Butch Coolidge (Bruce Willis) says, “Zed’s dead, baby. Zed’s dead,” as he comes to pick up Fabienne (Maria de Medeiros) to leave the city forever, the relief in Butch's voice mirrors what audiences feel—and what Marsellus (Ving Rhames) must feel. In this article, we’re discussing why Butch’s quote is less about sass and wit and more about him reminding himself of his narrow escape from death. Story and Themes (In the Context of Butch Coolidge)Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction follows interconnected storylines of a group of Los Angeles criminals, presented in non-linear timelines that ultimately converge into one. Butch’s arc in the story is that of survival, honor, and self-determination against the backdrop of the violence of fate. An aging, overlooked boxer, Butch is hired by Marsellus Wallace, the L.A. crime-lord, to lose a fight. Instead, Butch risks both his safety and his money and double-crosses Marsellus, betting on himself and winning the fight. He lets his disdain for being belittled and underestimated shape his fate, becoming an antihero who chooses pride and honor over money (and life) by shunning submission. His actions trigger Marsellus’ wrath, which sets off Butch’s desperate flight from Marsellus’ trusted hitmen. The Scene We’re at the climax of Pulp Fiction. Butch arrives outside the motel where he kept his girlfriend, Fabienne, hidden away. Fabienne has no clue about...
Published By: NoFilmSchool - Yesterday