The '5 long years' might be a period where certain events were set in motion that are now coming to a head in the story. For example, if there was a deal made five years ago that is now falling apart, it could be a major driving force for the plot. Characters would then be scrambling to either fix the situation or take advantage of the chaos. This time span can create a sense of history and backstory that enriches the current plot, as we see the consequences of what has happened over those five years.
The '5 long years' can serve as a backdrop that adds depth to the plot. It could mean that characters have had five years to develop their skills, personalities, and motives. This can lead to complex interactions in the present. For instance, a character who was a novice five years ago is now a hardened criminal, and their actions are shaped by their experiences during those five years. It also gives the audience a sense of time passing and the evolution of the world of 'Pulp Fiction', which in turn affects how we understand the current plot and the characters' actions within it.