Even the most brilliant filmmakers can fall victim to self-sabotage—and Christopher Nolan is no exception. Known for directing mind-bending blockbusters such as The Dark Knight and Inception, Nolan recently revealed a regret that still haunts him: "ruining" his first viewing experience of Quentin Tarantino's cult classic.
Nolan, celebrated for crafting intricate and unforgettable narratives, opened up about an unusual moment of imperfection. At the peak of Pulp Fiction's critical acclaim and cultural impact, he indulged in the hype by reading the screenplay before watching the film.
Driven by curiosity and excitement, Nolan made a rookie error, even as a master storyteller. He admits that his eagerness led him to miss out on the film's genuine surprise and discovery, which are central to the movie-watching experience.
“I ruined Pulp Fiction for myself and still can’t get over it.”
For Nolan, the true enchantment of a film like Pulp Fiction lies in its unexpected twists, captivating dialogue, and the thrill of not knowing what unfolds next. Reading the script beforehand deprived him of this essential joy.
Christopher Nolan regrets reading the Pulp Fiction screenplay before watching it, as it ruined the film’s surprises and the joy of discovery that make cinema special.