When it comes to Quentin Tarantino’s cult classic, Pulp Fiction, every character plays an important part in shaping the film’s narrative. However, some scenes and characters stick with the audience long after the credits have rolled – such as Zed, the corrupt police officer, and one of the most controversial characters in the movie.
So, who played Zed in Pulp Fiction? In this article, we’ll explore the actor behind the role, his previous works, as well as his thoughts on his experience filming this cult classic.
Introduction to Zed’s Character and Significance in Pulp Fiction
Before we dive into the identity of the actor behind Zed’s character, let’s take a closer look at who Zed is and his role in Pulp Fiction. Zed is a corrupt police officer who works in cahoots with rapist pawnshop owner Maynard. Together, they kidnap Vincent Vega (played by John Travolta) and Jules Winfield (played by Samuel L. Jackson).
What happens next is one of the most disturbing and uncomfortable scenes in the movie – Zed is found fondling Vega while Maynard is about to rape Winfield. Nevertheless, Zed is a crucial part of the movie that irrevocably affects the main characters.
Who Played Zed in Pulp Fiction?
Now that we’ve established why Zed’s role is culturally significant let’s get into the man behind the character. Zed was played by Peter Greene, an actor known for his talent in portraying darker and edgier characters. Greene’s acting style boasts intense and often unconventional performances, making him a fitting choice to play the villainous Zed.
Before Pulp Fiction, Greene had appeared in several gritty, independent productions such as Laws of Gravity and Clean, Shaven. However, it was his role in Pulp Fiction as Zed that launched him into the mainstream, albeit in a polarizing way.
Peter Greene’s Other Works
Peter Greene is an actor who has been in the industry for over three decades. Aside from his work in independent production, Greene has also appeared in several Hollywood films such as The Mask, Con Air, and Training Day. However, the majority of his work is not as well-known as some of his other co-stars, primarily due to the niche character roles he tends to play.
Peter Greene’s Experience Working on Pulp Fiction
Pulp Fiction is one of the most iconic movies of the 90s. So, what was it like to work on such a cutting-edge film at the time? In an interview with the AV Club, Peter Greene spoke candidly about his experience during the filming of the controversial Gimp scene, stating that it was “intense” and “serious.” He also mentioned a particularly challenging aspect of the scene was his struggle to remember his lines with a ball gag in his mouth.
Peter Greene’s Personal Thoughts on His Role in Pulp Fiction
In the same interview with the AV Club, Peter Greene admitted that he never saw Pulp Fiction and that he was unsure about his performance. He also mentioned that he didn’t agree with the portrayal of Zed to some degree, stating that he couldn’t identify with the character’s evil actions. Nevertheless, Greene mentioned that he was grateful for his role as it gave him more exposure in the film industry.
How Zed’s Role Contributed to Pulp Fiction’s Legacy
Zed’s character in Pulp Fiction is infamous, to say the least. The scene where he is found with Vega is one of the most memorable and talked-about moments in the whole film. Having a character like Zed in the movie’s cast only adds to the film’s nature as a non-linear, edgy, and daring masterpiece. It’s only fitting that we look back and know the man that played Zed.
Conclusion:
It’s always intriguing to discover the background and thoughts of the actors that brought our favorite movie characters to life. In the case of Peter Greene and his role as Zed in Pulp Fiction, it’s fair to say that his performance was unforgettable, albeit for all the wrong reasons.
Regardless of how anyone may feel about his character in the movie, Greene’s work in Pulp Fiction put him on the map for many fans of the film. Looking for more insights and behind-the-scenes details of the entertainment industry? Take some time to stay on our site and skim through our article archives.
FAQ
1. Who is Peter Greene?
Peter Greene is an American actor known for his talent in portraying darker and edgier characters in both independent and mainstream films. He has been in the industry for over three decades.
2. What role did Peter Greene play in Pulp Fiction?
Peter Greene played the role of Zed, a corrupt police officer who, together with a pawnshop owner, kidnaps two of the main characters in the movie, Vincent Vega and Jules Winfield.
3. What other films has Peter Greene appeared in?
Aside from Pulp Fiction, Peter Greene has appeared in several Hollywood films such as The Mask, Con Air, and Training Day. However, the majority of his work is not as well-known as some of his other co-stars, primarily due to the niche character roles he tends to play.
4. How did Peter Greene feel about his role in Pulp Fiction?
In an interview with the AV Club, Peter Greene admitted that he never saw Pulp Fiction and was unsure about his performance. He also mentioned that he didn’t agree with the portrayal of Zed to some degree, stating that he couldn’t identify with the character’s evil actions.
5. What contribution did Zed’s character make to Pulp Fiction’s legacy?
Zed’s character in Pulp Fiction is infamous, to say the least. The scene where he is found with Vega is one of the most memorable and talked-about moments in the whole film. Having a character like Zed in the movie’s cast only adds to the film’s nature as a non-linear, edgy, and daring masterpiece.
