In depth review of one of Hollywood's greatest debut films.
Reservoir Dogs, is a film that we shall not see the likes of again. We will see a great deal of cheap imitation, but they will never live up to Tarantino's instant classic. Tarantino, came at a time when Hollywood as well as aspiring Film Makers needed him. Hollywood needed someone who could make money out of a low budget film, someone who had the ability to write a great story and create great naturalistic characters and someone with sheer love and enthusiasm for film. Aspiring Film makers, needed him so they could believe that their dreams could come true as well. Tarantino, is like everyone else, someone who loves films. The craft, care and time spent on Reservoir Dogs reflects this. The plot involves, a failed heist, the effects before and after without showing the actual heist itself, it relies on the reactions and dialog of the actors. The film relies on character relationships, with themes of betrayal, trust and friendship as much as it does plot. The storytelling is non-linear typical of Tarantino, and his direction perfectly brings his wonderful script to light. Tarantino's dark humor shines through, with a series of laugh out loud moments implemented by the actor's brilliance of naturalistic acting. It's almost as if the camera is a fly on the wall, and watches the actors deliver ordinary conversations with one another. Harvey Keital and Steve Buscemi are noted for their terrific performances as Mr. White and Mr. Pink respectively. You watch them as they battle paranoia, misplaced trust, personal failure and fear. They carry the humour and emotion perfectly. Michael Madsen is particularly convincing as the violent and unpredictable Mr. Blonde. This has to be the greatest debut of all time from any director, the fact that he has backed it up with Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown and Kill Bill 1&2 shows the true genius of the man. A prolific writer, a storyteller and a sharp director Tarantino has everything, and refuses to sell out. If you ever forget amongst the stunt and action filled Blockbuster's, what a truly brilliant film should look like, i suggest you raid your DVD cabinet for Reservoir Dog's. It stands the test of time and remains a true classic, not just of the gangster genre but of independent Film Making in general. This was and remains one of hollywood’s greatest film debut’s. A film that could of been make or break for Tarantino, luckily it was the making of him and we have been able to enjoy the fruits of his talents for many years after.
