
Reservoir Dogs (1991)
Short film made with the help of the Sundance Film Institute and serving as a proof-of-concept for the subsequent feature film.
Details
Budget
$0
Rating
8/10 (196 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Sundance Institute
About Reservoir Dogs
"Reservoir Dogs" (1991) is a twelve-minute crime film that laid the groundwork for the feature-length movie of the same name. It was made with assistance from the Sundance Film Institute, showcasing a concept that would later be expanded upon. This short form provides a glimpse into the style and thematic elements that would define the director's unique approach to the crime genre.
The film functions as a proof-of-concept, suggesting a larger narrative focused on a distinctive group of characters within a criminal context. Its short runtime focuses on establishing an atmosphere rather than developing an extensive plot. The initial reception reflects its technical and conceptual strengths, with a vote average of 8 from 196 votes on TMDb and an IMDb rating of 6.3 based on 456 votes, indicating a solid foundation for the subsequent full-length adaptation.
Why you might be searching for Reservoir Dogs
Many people are searching for plot points and character details that actually belong to the feature film, not this short. The common searches reflect confusion between this short film and the renowned crime drama it inspired. For example, some queries relate to specific heist scenarios, character nicknames like "Magenta and Ivory," or scenes involving a character breaking wine glasses. Other searches allude to storylines about undercover police work, hospital scenes with clowns, or a car theft, all of which are elements of the longer movie. This suggests that viewers are often researching the more famous film and attributing its details to this initial short.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "Reservoir Dogs" on Amazon Prime Video, Peacock Premium, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, or Peacock Premium Plus. It's also available to rent or buy on platforms like Amazon Video and Apple TV.
"Reservoir Dogs" is not based on a true story. It is an original screenplay written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, who made his feature-length directorial debut with the film.
In the chaotic ending of "Reservoir Dogs," Mr. Pink flees with the diamonds. Mr. White cradles Mr. Orange, who confesses he is an undercover police officer. As White aims his gun at Orange, the police storm the warehouse, and gunshots are heard, leading to White's collapse after Joe and Eddie Cabot are killed in a Mexican standoff with White and Orange.
"Reservoir Dogs" is widely considered a classic independent and cult film, earning an approval rating of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes and an average score of 81/100 on Metacritic. Critics praised its intelligence, energy, and ensemble cast, with Empire magazine naming it the "Greatest Independent Film" ever made.