Reservoir Dogs
User Score
8.6 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 220 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 209 out of 220
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 220
  3. Negative: 7 out of 220

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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. SamS.
    Nov 29, 2009
    2
    How does Joe's son die? No one shoots him.
  3. 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
  4. thelordoffilm
    Aug 13, 2010
    10
    Reservoir Dogs was Quentin Tarantinoâ
  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: â    … Expand
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. BillB.
    Feb 3, 2007
    7
    It wasn't THAT good. The acting was great, but the script is below average.
  10. 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!!
  11. 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
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.
  16. 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.
  17. 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
  18. PatC.
    Jan 5, 2004
    6
    It had no point, but was totally compelling getting to it.
  19. YouliJ.
    Jun 23, 2004
    0
    Pointless violence from a high school drop out.
  20. 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.
  21. 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.
  22. 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
  23. 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.
  24. 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."
  25. 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!
  26. JonL.
    Nov 26, 2003
    10
    Genius brilliant can watch this film or die a sad and lonley life.
  27. 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
  28. 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!!
  29. 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!!
  30. 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
  31. 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.
  32. RobertI
    Feb 26, 2008
    9
    One gripping piece of filmmaking, with the most terrifying scene on film?
  33. NewKillerStarDestroyer
    Sep 29, 2009
    10
    It's a witty and intense movie, with some of the most stylish sequences ever seen.
  34. fabio
    Nov 29, 2004
    10
    Maybe the best Tarantino's movie.
  35. 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.
  36. 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.
  37. 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.
  38. 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
  39. 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.
  40. 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.
  41. 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
  42. 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.
  43. 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.
  44. 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.
  45. 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.
  46. 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
  47. 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.
  48. Bruce722
    Nov 29, 2012
    5
    This is your perfect example of people liking something strictly because it's different. Other than the acting, which was actually very good, everything else about the movie was mediocre. Quentin Tarantino thinks that you can simply use chaos to replace good storytelling and that's just not the case. This is a cult classic but like most of those, it's majorly overrated. Outside of the opening scene, nothing about the movie was entertaining in any way and really could've been told just as well in 20 minutes. Honestly, that's what Tarantino does. He takes a 15 minute story and fools the audience into thinking it's a halfway decent movie by using over an hour of fluff to fill out time between the constant back-and-forth of the plot. The acting and the opening scene earned the movie a 5/10. Anything more than that and people are just lying to themselves because they want to feel part of the cult following.… Expand
  49. 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.
  50. 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?
  51. 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.
  52. LeyendaV
    Feb 17, 2013
    9
    Violenta, cínica y brutalmente brillante. "Perros de la calle" inauguró una manera de desarrollar historias de gánsters que hasta ese momento era inimaginable.
  53. axelkoch
    Dec 2, 2012
    8
    'Reservoir Dogs' marks the debut of legendary Quentin Tarantino, who revolutionized the heist genre with this movie. Crude jokes, nearly 300 uses of the f-word in a running time of only 90 minutes and an awful lot of blood. In the Tarantino-esque manner of using as few scenes as possible, this film is focused on the dialogues. Tarantino himself describing what Madonna
  54. MouthofSauron
    Apr 18, 2013
    9
    "Reservoir Dogs" is a Tarantino classic, the antecedent to "Pulp Fiction". Tarantino proves himself to be a consumate director. The characters are so well written that the bloody finale is one of the most emotional in cinema.
  55. SnapJohnson
    Dec 1, 2012
    9
    Sam S. : Mr. Pink shoots him from under the ramp. You can see his gun withdrawn when he runs out. This movie is way better if you are extremely attentive. Notice Joe says he 'ignored his instincts' about the snitch?....remember the scene with the dog barking in the bathroom of the snitch's story..thats Joe's instincts calling him out. the noise of the hand dryer blocks it out.
  56. TheWalrus2000
    Mar 9, 2013
    9
    Tarantino has a very strong opening to his extremely sucessful career by providing us with the powerfully written script Reservoir Dogs that will get inside your head for the rest of your life.
  57. Summersausage
    Jan 7, 2013
    9
    This movie is why Tarentino is a phenomenon. A screenplay that explains all the intrinsic character story lines that connect in one perfect moment of momentous fury. The acting of Harvey Keitel is unappreciated, and Steve Buchemi is awesome. The script is full of conversations that show who the characters are and an awesome reveal of the ending.
  58. ag10
    Jan 8, 2013
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Reservoir Dogs was a hell of a movie. The acting was great and has some of the most memorable and brutal storylines of any movie. The brilliant dialogue made you engaged as well as this thrill of unknowing what's gonna happen next. However, I was a little disappointed. I thought that the movie could have been better if the characters were developed more. I could hardly put myself in their shoes and understand them as characters because I knew very little about them. The film should have more movement, rather than the whole movie being based in a warehouse. It gets to the point where the characters have been in a location for far too long and as audience I went: "well what's gonna happen next". I would have liked to see the original heist too because it adds on the entertainment and would have made the movie more enjoyable. Some bits of the movie just felt unfinished, other than that it was great movie, but it could have been an excellent one.… Expand
  59. BrendanCogs99
    Mar 13, 2013
    8
    Quentin Tarintino creates a crime film that not only brings you in but it also creates a feel to the film about four brutal robbers and one LAPD rat.
  60. Smudger599
    Mar 20, 2013
    9
    Reservoir Dogs This is Quentin Tarantino's first film as a director. This film contains many attributes, violence, the first scene is possibly Tarantino'd funniest scene. Even in his first film Tarantino has managed to get a great cast together. With the legendary Harvey Keitel, Steve Buscemi, Tim Roth, Chris Penn, Micheal Madson. With this cast the film was only ever going to be utter perfection.The plot is possibly the most basic plot ever in a film, but still the most intelligent to come up with.
    plot: The Reservoir Dogs are planning to rob a shop, and one of them being Mr Orange (Tim Roth) is a policeman and tells the police about this master plan, Tim Roth is the "rat" in the system.    … Expand

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 »