50 Facts About The Movie Reservoir Dogs

The movie was originally titled “The Dogs of Reservoir.”

However, Tarantino changed it to Reservoir Dogs as a homage to the French film Au Revoir Les Enfants.

Reservoir Dogs marked Tarantino’s directorial debut.

After gaining recognition as a screenwriter, Tarantino wrote, directed, and starred in his first feature-length film with Reservoir Dogs.

The story was inspired by a real-life jewel heist.

Tarantino learned about a robbery that took place at a jewelry store and used it as inspiration for the plot of Reservoir Dogs.

The cast of Reservoir Dogs formed a strong bond during filming.

Actors like Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, and Steve Buscemi formed lasting friendships during the shooting of the movie.

The characters in Reservoir Dogs are named after colors.

Mr. White, Mr. Orange, Mr. Blonde, etc., are all given color-based code names instead of their real names.

The infamous ear-cutting scene was almost cut from the film.

During test screenings, some viewers found the scene too violent, but Tarantino decided to keep it in the final cut.

Quentin Tarantino originally wanted to play Mr. Pink.

However, Steve Buscemi ended up taking on the role, and Tarantino played Mr. Brown instead.

The budget for Reservoir Dogs was relatively low.

The film was made on a budget of approximately $1.2 million, with Tarantino relying on his connections and resourcefulness to bring the project to life.

The opening scene of Reservoir Dogs features a discussion on the song “Like a Virgin.”

While controversial at the time, this scene became iconic and established Tarantino’s signature style of blending pop culture references with intense dialogue.

Reservoir Dogs was a critical success but performed modestly at the box office.

The film garnered positive reviews for its unique storytelling and strong performances but initially struggled to find a wide audience.

The MPAA originally gave Reservoir Dogs an NC-17 rating.

Due to the violence and language in the film, Tarantino had to make several edits to secure an R rating.

Reservoir Dogs popularized the use of non-linear storytelling.

Tarantino’s decision to present the narrative out of chronological order was a groundbreaking technique that has since been emulated by many other filmmakers.

The movie’s iconic warehouse location is actually a mortuary.

Tarantino and the production team transformed a mortuary into the warehouse that serves as the main setting for the film.

Quentin Tarantino’s unique blend of dark humor and violence is evident throughout Reservoir Dogs.

The film balances intense moments with humorous exchanges between the characters, contributing to its cult status.

The movie’s dialogue is known for its witty and quotable lines.

Lines such as “Are you gonna bark all day, little doggie, or are you gonna bite?” have become iconic in the world of cinema.

Reservoir Dogs inspired numerous homages and parodies.

The film’s impact on pop culture can be seen in references in other movies, TV shows, and even music videos.

Quentin Tarantino has stated that Reservoir Dogs is a tribute to classic crime films.

The influences of directors like Jean-Pierre Melville and Stanley Kubrick can be seen in the film’s style and storytelling.

The movie’s soundtrack is filled with an eclectic mix of music.

Songs like “Stuck in the Middle with You” by Stealers Wheel and “Coconut” by Harry Nilsson added tension and atmosphere to key scenes.

Reservoir Dogs was well-received internationally.

The film gained a strong following worldwide, solidifying Tarantino’s reputation as a visionary filmmaker.

Quentin Tarantino’s use of long takes and extended shots adds a sense of tension to Reservoir Dogs.

The audience is kept on the edge of their seats as the camera lingers on the characters and their interactions.

Reservoir Dogs is known for its ensemble cast.

The film features a talented ensemble of actors who each bring distinct personalities to their roles.

The color blue is intentionally absent from the film.

This exclusion further emphasizes the use of color symbolism throughout the movie.

Reservoir Dogs was ranked as one of the greatest independent films of all time.

The movie’s impact and influence on independent cinema cannot be understated.

Tarantino’s unique nonlinear storytelling style is evident in the opening scene of Reservoir Dogs.

The characters gathered in a diner engage in a conversation that sets the stage for the gripping and unpredictable events that follow.

The script for Reservoir Dogs was written in just three and a half weeks.

Tarantino’s rapid writing process contributed to the film’s raw and authentic dialogue.

The movie’s poster features a simple yet memorable design.

The black-and-white image of a suited man pointing a gun captures the essence of the film’s gritty and intense atmosphere.

When Reservoir Dogs premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, it sparked a bidding war among distributors.

The film’s buzz and critical acclaim led to an intense competition for the distribution rights.

Quentin Tarantino’s cameo appearance in Reservoir Dogs is brief but memorable.

He plays Mr. Brown, who delivers an engaging monologue about Madonna’s “Like a Virgin.”

The character Mr. Blonde, played by Michael Madsen, is one of the most iconic and controversial in the film.

His sadistic behavior and the infamous ear-cutting scene are among the most memorable moments in Reservoir Dogs.

Reservoir Dogs was influential in revitalizing the independent film industry.

The movie’s success paved the way for other indie filmmakers to gain recognition and make their mark in the industry.

Quentin Tarantino’s nonlinear narrative style adds to the suspense and intrigue of Reservoir Dogs.

The audience is kept guessing about the characters’ motivations and the outcome of the heist.

The film’s intense and realistic violence left a lasting impact on audiences.

Reservoir Dogs pushed the boundaries of on-screen violence and influenced subsequent crime films.

Reservoir Dogs was initially banned in several countries.

Due to its graphic violence and controversial themes, the film faced censorship challenges in various parts of the world.

The movie’s nonlinear structure allowed Quentin Tarantino to explore different perspectives of the story.

Each character’s backstory and motivations are gradually revealed, adding depth to the overall narrative.

The cast of Reservoir Dogs underwent extensive rehearsals to perfect their performances.

Tarantino emphasized the importance of rehearsal to ensure the actors delivered authentic and compelling portrayals.

Quentin Tarantino’s decision to keep the heist itself off-screen was a deliberate choice.

By focusing on the aftermath and the characters’ interactions, the suspense is heightened, leaving the audience to imagine the events that unfolded.

Reservoir Dogs marked the beginning of Quentin Tarantino’s signature use of nonlinear storytelling.

This narrative technique became a trademark of his subsequent films, including Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill.

The dialogue in Reservoir Dogs is known for its sharp wit and profanity.

Quentin Tarantino’s use of expletives and clever banter between the characters adds to the film’s gritty and realistic feel.

The movie’s rapid-fire dialogue between the characters became one of its defining features.

The juxtaposition of intense conversations and violent action created a unique cinematic experience.

Reservoir Dogs was a critical turning point in Quentin Tarantino’s career.

The film’s success propelled him into the spotlight as one of the most innovative and influential filmmakers of his generation.

The movie’s nonlinear narrative structure allows audiences to piece together the story gradually.

Each new revelation adds layers of intrigue and keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Reservoir Dogs is known for its stylish violence.

The brutal and intense action scenes, combined with Tarantino’s unique visual style, have become hallmarks of his filmography.

The film’s ending is left open to interpretation.

Viewers are left to speculate on the fate of the surviving characters, adding another layer of ambiguity to the narrative.

Reservoir Dogs has gained a loyal cult following over the years.

The film’s impact and lasting popularity can be attributed to its memorable characters, quotable dialogue, and innovative storytelling.

Tarantino’s use of pop culture references is evident in Reservoir Dogs.

From discussions about Madonna to references to classic films, these nods add depth and texture to the characters and the overall story.

The movie’s nonlinear structure allowed Tarantino to build suspense and tension.

As the pieces of the puzzle come together, the audience is kept on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the full picture.

Reservoir Dogs introduced audiences to Tarantino’s trademark mix of violence and dark humor.

The juxtaposition of these elements creates a unique and memorable viewing experience.

The ensemble cast of Reservoir Dogs delivered standout performances.

Each actor brought depth and complexity to their respective roles, elevating the overall quality of the film.

Reservoir Dogs was a critical and commercial success upon its release.

The film’s unique style and bold storytelling resonated with audiences and established Tarantino as a visionary filmmaker.

Reservoir Dogs continues to be celebrated as a landmark crime film.

Its influence can be seen in the work of subsequent filmmakers, making it a timeless piece of cinema.

Reservoir Dogs remains a benchmark in Quentin Tarantino’s filmography, showcasing his talent for blending gripping storytelling, memorable characters, and a distinct style. The film’s impact can still be felt today, and its legacy is sure to endure for years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Reservoir Dogs is a groundbreaking film that has left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. From its iconic characters and memorable dialogue to its non-linear storytelling and stylish direction, this movie continues to captivate audiences even decades after its release. Quentin Tarantino’s debut feature film displays his unique storytelling ability and showcases his raw talent as a filmmaker.The film’s exploration of themes such as loyalty, trust, betrayal, and the complexities of human nature make it a thought-provoking and unforgettable viewing experience. Reservoir Dogs pushed the boundaries of what a crime thriller could be, with its visceral violence and unexpected plot twists. It paved the way for Tarantino’s subsequent films and established him as one of the most influential directors of our time.Whether you’re a fan of Tarantino or a lover of crime films, Reservoir Dogs is a must-watch. Its impact on cinema cannot be overstated, and its status as a cult classic is well-deserved. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping ride that is Reservoir Dogs.

FAQs

1. Who directed Reservoir Dogs?

Reservoir Dogs was directed by Quentin Tarantino, marking his debut as a feature film director.

2. When was Reservoir Dogs released?

The film was released in 1992, and it quickly gained critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

3. Can you provide a brief overview of the plot?

Reservoir Dogs tells the story of a group of criminals, each identified solely by a color-coded pseudonym, who come together to carry out a diamond heist. However, the heist goes awry, leading to suspicion and mistrust among the group.

4. What makes Reservoir Dogs unique?

Reservoir Dogs is known for its non-linear narrative structure, clever dialogue, and intense violence. It also features a standout ensemble cast and a memorable soundtrack.

5. Is Reservoir Dogs suitable for all audiences?

No, Reservoir Dogs is rated R for its graphic violence, strong language, and intense scenes. It is recommended for mature audiences.

6. Has Reservoir Dogs won any awards?

While it wasn’t a major box office success initially, Reservoir Dogs has gained critical acclaim over the years and has been recognized for its impact on cinema. Quentin Tarantino received the Silver Lion Award at the 1992 Venice Film Festival for his screenplay.

7. What are some of the most memorable scenes in the film?

Some of the most memorable scenes include the opening diner scene, the infamous “Stuck in the Middle with You” ear-cutting scene, and the revelation of the undercover police officer.

8. Is there a connection between Reservoir Dogs and other Tarantino films?

Yes, Reservoir Dogs is set in the same universe as Tarantino’s other films, often referred to as the “Tarantinoverse.” There are subtle references and connections between characters and events in different films within this shared universe.