Before stepping into filmmaking, Tarantino worked at a video store for about five years.
There are two kinds of filmmakers: those who follow the traditional storytelling structure and others who break the formula to create something new. But Quentin Tarantino belongs to neither. He proudly admits to "stealing from every film ever made," yet what he delivers is pure - as they say - the Tarantino style. This perfectly reflects Jean-Luc Godard's words, "It’s not where you take things from, it’s where you take them to." And many reduce Tarantino’s cinema to just violence and chaos, but that’s only the surface. Take any of his films, and you'll realize that it's not just about showing gore, but about making you feel something with that. Beneath the stylish brutality lies deep philosophy, sharp wit, and raw emotion. That’s why when others - especially some Indian filmmakers - try to imitate him, all they capture is the violence, never the soul.
Born on March 27, 1963, Tarantino—hailed by film historian Peter Bogdanovich as "the single most influential director of his generation"—has left an incredible impact on cinema. But have you ever wondered where his passion for filmmaking truly flourished? As we celebrate his 62nd birthday today, let’s take a look at the journey that shaped him.
Before Quentin Tarantino became a renowned filmmaker, he spent about five years working at Video Archives, a video rental store in Manhattan Beach, California, earning $200 a week. His extensive film knowledge made him a local favorite, often recommending movies to customers and engaging in passionate discussions about cinema. Reflecting on his time there, Tarantino once remarked, "I was already a movie expert, that's how I got hired at Video Archives." He fondly recalled how he and his colleagues were recognized in the community: "Me and the other guys would walk into the local movie theater... and we'd hear, 'There go the guys from Video Archives.'" During this period, he formed significant relationships with many, including a three-year romance with Grace Lovelace, a fellow employee, which he described as his "greatest memory" from that time. This environment not only deepened his cinematic passion but also connected him with future collaborators like Roger Avary, with whom he co-wrote the Oscar-winning screenplay for "Pulp Fiction."
(Credit: MTV Vault)
"But my greatest memory is my first real girlfriend — the first girl I ever really fell in love with and she loved me back. She was a girl named Grace Lovelace, who started working at the video store. Meeting her and the relationship we had for three years is my favorite memory of that time,” he shared in an interview.
Working at Video Archives was an important chapter in Tarantino's journey to becoming a filmmaker. Starting at age 22, he immersed himself in the vast collection of films the store offered, from mainstream hits to out-of-the-box content. This environment allowed him to explore various genres and styles, significantly broadening his cinema knowledge and understanding.
Quentin Tarantino working at a video rental store in California during the 80's. pic.twitter.com/m9R0HLADV4
— Quentin Tarantino Universe (@TarantinoWorld) March 25, 2023
(Credit: Quentin Tarantino Universe)
Tarantino's role at the store wasn't just about organizing tapes; it was about engaging with customers and discussing movies passionately. He often recommended films, sparking conversations that helped him grow.
(Credit: David's Movie Corner)
While working there, he developed an appreciation for Hong Kong crime films and the French New Wave among others - influences that were later reflected in his work. This eclectic exposure shaped his unique narrative style, blending diverse elements into his storytelling.
(Credit: The Howard Stern Show)
And beyond films, the video store experience offered him a lens into human behavior. Observing customers' choices and reactions provided him insights into character development and dialogue. "One would be the camaraderie of the guys who worked there. The way you have those friendships in your twenties where you’re like a little family and do everything together. We went to the movies all the time, we watched movies all the time in the store, and we talked about them — people came into the store just to talk to us. It was just a lot of fun," he shared in an interview.
Happy Birthday, Tarantino. Thanks For All The Amazing Films!
