Hot Dog

Rating: 8/10 (24 September 2009)

Quentin Tarantino's debut feature "Reservoir Dogs" has earned the status of modern classic since its release seventeen years ago. Along with "Pulp Fiction" it inspired countless imitators that have faded into obscurity while the originators remain as fresh as ever.
The story is pretty simple. A jewellery heist goes horribly wrong and the surviving thieves suspect that one of their group is an undercover cop. The question is: Which one?
The cast is pretty solid for an independent film. In my mind, Harvey Keitel leads the way while Steve Buscemi, Michael Madsen, Chris Penn & Lawrence Tierney lend quality support. Tim Roth I can take or leave and the rest of the performances are nothing special.
Tarantino's direction is skillful here though it doesn't show quite the same polish as his later efforts. His biggest contribution to the film is in his script, which not only presents a compelling story but does so with that trademark Tarantino knack for dialogue. And who can forget soundtrack selections like "Stuck in the Middle With You" by Stealers Wheel and "Little Green Bag" by the George Baker Selection?
In the end, "Reservoir Dogs" is a top-notch heist flick that is arguably Tarantino's best film next to "Pulp Fiction". I recommend it without reservation.