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Reservoir Dogs
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8.6 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 130 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 124 out of 130
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 130
  3. Negative: 6 out of 130

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  1. grandpajoe6191
    Sep 27, 2011
    8
    Man, I really liked Quentin Tarantino before he became a retard, directing movies like "Kill Bill". His Sundance movie "Reservoir Dogs" was a great example why; it had everything a crime thriller doesn't need, from great, unexpected directions to a solid cast (mainly Harvey Keitel doing the job). It was a controversial blast that had powerful, appealing force, and that's why I admired it.
  2. nboley08
    Aug 22, 2010
    8
    Tarantino's debut is still arguably his most powerful. "Reservoir Dogs" shows a rathe timid Tarantino in the beginning of his career, but that doesn't mean it's lesser than his later films. "Reservoir Dogs" packs a mean punch full of violence, obscenities, and hilarity all into very fast crime thriller that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. "Reservoir Dogs" does lack what makes Tarantino's later films somewhat better; a brilliant screenplay. I would love to see Tarantino redo "Reservoir Dogs" now that his confidence in directing and writing has grown considerably. However, this is a fantastic cult film that should be watched by every lover of the cinema.… Expand
  3. SamS.
    Nov 29, 2009
    2
    How does Joe's son die? No one shoots him.
    • 1 of 8 users said yes
  4. thelordoffilm
    Aug 13, 2010
    10
    Reservoir Dogs was Quentin Tarantino’s first featured film. I have to admit it was a testament of how awesome of director he really is. Tarantino’s style of filmmaking is unique, he always reminds us in every one of his films how he loves film. With the music and camera angles and homage to other movies the man has the craft. Reservoir Dogs begins with a rotating scene in a diner where we are introduced to every character. We get a feel of how each character’s mood and personality. We don’t know their names they have color coded names to protect their identity as well as they won’t give up anybody else. Why they have color coded names you ask, their planning a jewel heist. After that scene we get scenes of despair and blood and we figured out that the job did not go as well. A lot of people have complained about the movie’s violence. That it’s an exercise of brutality. I agree the movie is violent and it’s the kind of movie violence that it’s not for the faint of heart. Consider the scene with Michael Madsen that we all know the ear cutting scene. Some people will find it unnecessary but get this (SPOLIER) through out the whole film they talk about how Mr. Blonde (Michael Madsen) screw everything up and how he went psycho. We didn’t see the actual event so to establish that Mr. Blonde is truly a psychopath that scene had to be put in. These are violent men and this movie was advertised as a crime drama film or gangster film. So when you go to the movies don’t be surprise of seeing violence on film. The plot is told that we never see what really happen at the heist. The everything going to s**t scene is never portrayed. Instead we get the aftermath and back stories of different important characters. So the film is told in a unique way. Giving us our imagination to use to imagine what really happen. A similar movie that uses that approach is The Hangover. The dialogue of course is awesome Tarantino always makes great dialogue for his characters. This movie marked the entrance of a born filmmaker.… Expand
  5. RONGIU
    Sep 4, 2010
    10
    Sorry for the translation. The year was 1992 - In the cinematic landscape is a new director and a new movie. The director named Quentin Tarantino, the film Reservoir Dogs. Synopsis: Robbery, fleeing in a warehouse, debates, quarrels, emotional consequences, death stars. (Except one, perhaps). Who is Quentin Tarantino: A brilliant storyteller. (S.m. skillful storyteller) About Reservoir Dogs: A film against intellectual arrogance. When you're seriously pissed use the tools that are familiar to make you feel better. What are the symptoms (nervousness): A brilliant storyteller and surprises you when he talks about topics such as handling, race, music, religion, violence. So his characters before the cameras never lose vitality even in extreme situations. Everything is structured around the conversations that are always stimulating. Tarantino shakes you from stupor. As you can: through the camera, leaving no escape. You're down there shooting, anyway. What is comparable to the work of Tarantino: The most famous artist Mamontow toy. The Russian dolls. In that sense: The Russian doll is a collection of dolls, Russian wood of different sizes, nicely colored. Each piece can be inserted into another and is divided into two parts. The pieces in them are not full, but empty. Only the latter, the smallest, which is called "seed" is full. The largest piece is called "mother". The Russian doll, the figure represents a peasant mother and generous as it may be the land. The creative mind of Tarantino is generous as it is a Russian doll. Got a message for Mr. Tarantino? Yes, welcome in Italy. Venice is beautiful. A partnership with Carlo Verdone would an Oscar in Italy. An example of imaginative narration (narration). Ok. Un giorno, un non vedente era seduto sul gradino di un marciapiede con un cappello ai suoi piedi e un pezzo di cartone con su scritto: «Sono cieco, aiutatemi per favore!» "One day a blind man was sitting on the slope of a sidewalk with a cap at his feet and a piece of cardboard with this written on it: “I am blind. Help me please.” Un pubblicitario che passava di lì si fermò e notò che vi erano solo alcuni centesimi nel cappello. "An advertising professional who was passing by stopped and noted that there were only a few cents in the hat." Si chinò e versò della moneta, poi, senza chiedere il permesso al cieco, prese il cartone, lo girò e vi scrisse sopra un'altra frase. "He bent and put in some money, then without asking the blind man’s permission took the cardboard, turned it, and wrote another phrase." Al pomeriggio, il pubblicitario ripassò dal cieco e notò che il suo cappello era pieno di monete e di banconote. "In the afternoon, the ad man passed by the blind man again and noted that his cap was full of coins and paper money." Il non vedente riconobbe il passo dell'uomo e gli domandò se era stato lui che aveva scritto sul suo pezzo di cartone e soprattutto che cosa vi avesse annotato. "The blind man recognized the step of the man and asked him if he was the one who had written on the piece of cardboard and, above all, what he had written." Il pubblicitario rispose: Nulla che non sia vero, ho solamente riscritto la tua frase in un altro modo. "The ad man replied: Nothing that isn’t true. I simply rewrote your phrase in another way." Sorrise e se ne andò. Il non vedente non seppe mai che sul suo pezzo di cartone vi era scritto: «Oggi è primavera e io non posso vederla». "He smiled and left. The blind man never knew that on the piece of cardboard was written: “Today is spring, and I can not see it.”" Morale: Cambia la tua strategia quando le cose non vanno molto bene e vedrai che poi andrà meglio. "Moral: Change your strategy when things aren’t going very well, and you will see that they then will go better." Good Ciak!… Expand
  6. Wongit
    Mar 12, 2005
    9
    Marvelous. this is the first movie i had seen from tarantino and he definetly stuck in my mind. it threw me off, i wanted to see the bank robbery be played out but insted i got amazing dialogue, amazing characters and a amazing story. Great music is also there.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  7. AdamB.
    May 3, 2006
    10
    This movie was so awesome. And though Tarantino was not the first director to make use of non-linear plotlines (Mystery Train by Jim Jarmusch), he very much brought a quirky style of direction and storytelling into the end of the twentieth century and now into the twenty-first. Reservoir Dogs remains my favorite gangster movie only because it isn't so stereotypical of that genre of film.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  8. BillB.
    Feb 3, 2007
    7
    It wasn't THAT good. The acting was great, but the script is below average.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  9. NaomiM.
    Nov 12, 2004
    10
    "Why do I have to be Mr. Pink?" "Because your a F***ing f**!" I love this movie! I think that the QT movies are the best! Those lines are my favorite. This movie rocks!!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  10. AndrewM
    Jul 15, 2004
    7
    (7.5) It's good but not great. (In all honesty, it's probably better than that because it's QT's debut, but that doesn't really matter). For me, it's a marvel the way the film takes and uses familiar elements of action/crime/mafia type movies, but reinvents these elements (into compounds maybe?) to transcend the film and make it all entriely original. That�39;s what I like about it. That, and the screenplay. I know it's full of profanity, but it's just so "three sheets to the wind", so reckless and arrogant, that it's just pure entertainment! The film is a triumph; almost a classic, certainly a blast!… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  11. RitaP.
    Jan 30, 2006
    6
    I'm normally a big fan of Tarantino but this film is vastly overrated. Original, stylish, well acted and directed but not a modern masterpiece.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  12. WesE.
    Jan 6, 2006
    10
    Pulp Fiction has a great story, acting and direction, but it doesn't seem real; neither does Jackie Brown. Reservoir Dogs succeeds on these terms simply because it feels so creepily real. The dialog, acting and genius plot are simply brilliant.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  13. RDalvi
    Mar 20, 2006
    10
    Excellent performances. Dialogues contain a lot of abusive language but its worth it. Tarantino'ds performance as Mr. Brown as well as the director and writer is excellent. The other performances also shine. Overall, a great movie with great content.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  14. Mr.Pink
    Oct 10, 2009
    10
    I just have one thing to say.. You put the Lime in the Coconut and you drank 'em both up Put the lime in the coconut, you drank 'em both up.. :D Such a brilliant movie with that song on the credits, it makes it only more brilliant and more Tarantino.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  15. RyanM.
    Jan 13, 2003
    10
    An explosive highwire act of "f" words and torture scenes that could be the best heist movie ever made, and Michael F., not being as good as "Pulp Fiction" isn't a problem, because there are no movies as good as "Pulp Fiction"...it's the best.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  16. SantinoS.
    Mar 12, 2003
    9
    Tarantino's stunning debut feature which is a remake of a asian film"city on fire" heralded the coming of the most talented and innovative director of our times. as with "pulp fiction" this movie is not for everyone coz of the bloody violence and language but these r the very elements that make this movie work.also tarantino's humour is in a class of its own. i'm eagerly awaiting "kill bill".… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  17. PatC.
    Jan 5, 2004
    6
    It had no point, but was totally compelling getting to it.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  18. YouliJ.
    Jun 23, 2004
    0
    Pointless violence from a high school drop out.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  19. cman79
    Jan 2, 2005
    8
    This is a movie that is more of a character study than anything else. you get to see a crime movie from a different perspective.........the characters not an over-the-top jewel heist.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  20. JamesM
    Dec 20, 2005
    10
    I cannot stand critics who dislike Tarantino because his movies contain violence. God, if you can't watch movies with violence why on earth are you a movie critic? This is one of my faourite film of all time, and, you can quote me on this, Quentin Tarantino is a genius.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  21. JinsonC.
    Sep 8, 2006
    10
    Reservoir Dogs, the movie that started it all. Such a widely replicated directorial debut has never been made and never will be. Tarantino presents an alternate view of reality as in the perspective of those that break the law as the good guys. Police are the perpetual villain, always present yet out of sight and all the characters know it. This is one hell of an adrenaline ride and a must see for any fan of film.… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  22. BenB.
    Sep 15, 2007
    9
    Speaking as a Tarantino fan, this film is great. His first film (written when he was 28) is extremely original, with a clever script and a unique outlook. The acting is top-notch, and carries the film, although the trademark Tarantino script goes a long way also.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  23. MichaelF.
    Mar 11, 2002
    9
    This is a great film, though it has some flaws, its still great. PROBLEMS: Chris Penn is horrible. The dialouge is showing off a bit. Not nearly as good as "Pulp Fiction."
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  24. DerekY.
    Jul 29, 2002
    10
    This was one of my favorite films of all times. I dont mean to sound like a physco but, the torture scene was great!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  25. JonL.
    Nov 26, 2003
    10
    Genius brilliant can watch this film or die a sad and lonley life.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  26. YoonC.
    Sep 23, 2003
    10
    Indie movie that gleefully avoided every indie movie pitfall--earnestness, amateurishness, do-goody social-consciousness--this is a stunning triumph of brilliant writing, professional acting, and a ceaseless succession of expertly directed set pieces. While as violent and brutal as Tarantino's later--and truly offensive--films, Reservoir Dogs never loses grip of its powerful but warped morality tale. … Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  27. JaredSS
    Mar 11, 2004
    10
    Absolutely spectacular! To say that all this film has is "blood" and "gore" is about as blank a statement as you can make. There's much more to it than that, and for those who don't see that, I just feel bad for you! Entertaining piece of stylized, enjoyable cinema that should be treasured. Long live Quentin Tarantino!!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  28. SteveS
    Mar 21, 2005
    10
    One of my all-time favourite films, fantastic dialogue and the perfect example of a well made character-driven film. Not for the sensitive but hey, read the rating!!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  29. Mr.Hankey
    Apr 22, 2006
    7
    This movie sparked the millions of fans of Quentin Tarantino and made him a big name in independent film. But is the movie good? Yes because it is a interesting look at the jobs of killers and No because it doesn't add up as well and some of the acting isn't as good as I would hope. The violence is very visual and surreal but it shows the brutality of people in a way that you may never have seen before. Also interesting how the incognito's of the killers are colors and also how the language is over used and makes the characters less appealing. The movie is good but not the best out of Tarantino in any form.… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  30. BenB
    Nov 30, 2007
    8
    A witty script and impressive acting carry this movie, which isn't really that as good as all the hype. The quotable dialogue, black comedy, and great performances make the movie worth it, and I really enjoyed it, but Tarantino has really refined his technique since this movie. For more of the unique dialogue with everything improved upon watch Pulp Fiction, a true masterpiece.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  31. RobertI
    Feb 26, 2008
    9
    One gripping piece of filmmaking, with the most terrifying scene on film?
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  32. NewKillerStarDestroyer
    Sep 29, 2009
    10
    It's a witty and intense movie, with some of the most stylish sequences ever seen.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  33. fabio
    Nov 29, 2004
    10
    Maybe the best Tarantino's movie.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  34. TylerG.
    Nov 27, 2007
    10
    The debut film of the greatest American director to ever look through the lens of a camera. Tarantino doesn't make anything but great movies. Every single thing he has directed, written, or even produced has all been outstanding work. If you love movies and you want to see the debut film of one of the greatest directors in our time then check this movie out.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  35. SlickReview
    Aug 16, 2010
    9
    This film has some of the best acting I've seen. Definitly an American Crime Classic. Also a very strong lesson on who to trust and who not to trust.
  36. ryancarroll88
    Aug 27, 2010
    6
    Quentin Tarantino's debut is essentially a hyperviolent version of "Clue." It has the style and flair of Tarantino's other features, but not as much of the fun.
  37. thesantanafan
    Jan 29, 2011
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It had no real point to it. Just another movie about a job gone wrong where everybody dies. The dialogue was one of the least impressive things about it... It was awkward and unconvincing, despite being acted by decent actors. I couldn't see the film as an unfolding story, I could only see it as Tarantino's writing. I think that seeing dudes screaming and covered in blood was supposed to cloud people's judgement with shock. The fact that the actors were good made everybody assume that the rest of the movie was good. I am an empathetic person who doesn't like violence, but even I couldn't see this as "brutal". All I saw were actors with red crap on them making hurting noises. I didn't buy it. I loved Pulp Fiction, and I had high hopes for this movie, and I was very disapointed. Upon seeing the credits roll, I said one thing out loud: "That was retarded." Maybe I'm not 'getting' the movie, maybe I need to see it again, but for the time being I'm giving it a thumbs down.… Expand
  38. muzziklover
    Mar 6, 2011
    9
    The movie that made Tarantino awesome. Probably one of Tarantino's greatest films next to Pulp Fiction, it has everything you expect and love from Tarantino; Memorable dialogs, well written characters, well paced non-linear storyline, constant references to pop culture and tribute like feelings. If you want to explore Tarantino's films, start with this one.
  39. Tubie
    Nov 2, 2010
    9
    It's sad that not as many people have watched this gem. It's such a great film I did not give it a 10 because some parts drag on a bit but overall this is one of the best movies of all times in my book.
  40. conorbobonor
    Dec 28, 2010
    8
    Tarantino's first feature film. Looked at it, Looked at some clips and read some reviews and at that point i didn't think too much of it. Still i watched it. HOW WRONG I WAS! the movie is just a classic! theres no other way of describing it. Exellant plot with enthruling dialog, humour,charisma and some very outrages gore scenes set perfectly within the film. I have to say that this is one of those movies you have to watch before you die.… Expand
  41. iamtrent424
    Mar 27, 2011
    9
    An awesome Crime Gangstar movie. I finally watch this movie. I love it. This is one of the best movie i seen. Memorable lines and scene. This movie brings action and comedy. An Crime gangster movie ever body should watch. very entertaining. I never watch this movie before because I didnt think it was going be all this good. If you haven't watch it already you should.
  42. sumsar
    Jan 24, 2011
    10
    Simply, a classic. Great cast with great acting and great dialogue. Gangster movie about a bank robbery you don't actually see, you only hear what happened and yet your eyes are glued to the screen every second of the movie. A must see for any movie lover.
  43. filmtrashreview
    Aug 28, 2011
    8
    Boring and not the least bit exciting, Reservoir Dogs puts a modern day spin on the 12 Angry Men format and keeps the audience entertained. I am not saying is a bad film its just straight up indie and way to self indulgent for the modern average film viewer. However most filmmakers and critics will enjoy its overall mellow theme.
  44. TheDaveHimself
    Jul 14, 2011
    9
    "If you shoot me in a dream, you better wake up and apologize." Simply fantastic. Tarantino is in a league of his own. And to think, his next film was Pulp Fiction.
  45. Nrich46
    Jul 2, 2011
    9
    Starting with a clever plot, following up with a genius screenplay, and ending with mind blowing performances by a male dominated cast Reservoir Dogs will not disappoint. This is the debut film from the often controversial and always twisted director/ writer/ actor Quentin Tarantino and it delivers the punch that he is now known for. Tim Roth (as Mr. Orange) gives his best performance, but, not to be outdone, is Michael Madsen who delivers a surprisingly enticing role as Mr. Blonde. This is often considered a cult hit, as are many of his films, but cerebral plotting and a cunning screenplay keep Reservoir Dogs a must see of 1990's cinema.… Expand
  46. spadenx
    Jan 7, 2012
    8
    I thought it was good for the most part but it did take a bit too long to get into, I mean really interesting. Also I did not like Chris Penn in this film at all, He brought the acting (which was rather good) down quite a bit. Overall it was a good movie and still well worth the watch.
  47. TTW107
    Apr 6, 2012
    9
    Wow, Quentin Tarantino thank you for this gem. I effing love when mr. blonde has the officer tied to the chair in the safe house, it manages to be psychotic and badass at the same time.
  48. RegOz
    Apr 5, 2012
    9
    I believe this is Tarantino's best movie...well, to me it is definitely better than Pulp Fiction. A great movie indeed, not a 10 but close...I hope to watch it again soon. What else can I say that hasn't been mentioned yet?
  49. imthenoob
    Jan 24, 2012
    8
    I loved this movie and I enjoyed watching it. The cast was good and it was interesting. Yet the film is a bit too predictable and that sort of ruined it a little. I would still recommend it though.
  50. Doehl
    Mar 25, 2012
    8
    This violent thriller does not reach the american nostalgic charm that Pulp Fiction created, but it certainly provides Tarantino the oppurtunity to create claustraphobic reactions for his audience and characters.
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Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
78 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Ty Burr
    100
    You may not like the terms Tarantino sets, but you have to admit he succeeds on them.
    Read full review
  2. Film Threat
    Reviewed by: Brad Laidman
    90
    The truth is that for all the controversy there really isn’t that much violence in Reservoir Dogs. The reason people were so affected was because the film shows you the true impact of its violence.
    Read full review
  3. Time
    Reviewed by: Richard Corliss
    90
    Most of the movie is Actors Acting: gifted guys (Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, Chris Penn) running nattering riffs on familiar lout themes. [16 Nov 1992]
See all critic reviews »