Freaky Tales is a minor miracle-a Pulp Fiction-inspired movie that works. By incorporating the Pulp Fiction musings on revenge, the film enhances its lo-fi aesthetic, adding an underdog element that befits the Oakland (vs. LA) meeting. The narrative unfolds through various interconnected chapters, each featuring underdog heroes. A ragtag group of pacifist punk rockers takes on a crew of Nazi skinheads, two teenage girls engage in a rap battle that shreds a rapper known for objectifying women, and a basketball point guard comes alive for a mind-blowing fourth quarter in a historic comeback win.
Somehow, the film's stories are held together by Sleepy Floyd's portrayal of a spokesperson for a company called Psytopics, a New Age "spiritual learning center" that promises participants the tools to connect with the cosmic life force and the powers to battle both inner and outer demons. By combining b-movie slapstick, gore, and sci-fi mysteries, Tales operates as both a tribute and spoof of 80's movies, while also paying homage to the wonderful diversity of Oakland during that time. The Tom Hanks cameo features classic Tarantino dialogue, where Hanks masterfully pokes fun at the very movies he's in.
While Freaky Tales lacks the depth of Pulp Fiction, it avoids the pitfalls of taking itself too seriously. Locals will undoubtedly love the film, but it doesn't require familiarity with the Bay Area to appreciate its charms. From start to finish, Freaky Tales is an entertaining, poignant, and thought-provoking masterpiece that perfectly executes the filmmakers' vision.
