Every Homage and Connection in “Reservoir Dogs”
Released in 1992, the crime thriller “Reservoir Dogs” shook the movie industry with its innovative storytelling, unforgettable characters, and, of course, its plethora of cinematic references and homages. In this post’s video essay, we’ll dissect the intricate web of connections woven throughout “Reservoir Dogs.” We’ll explore how Tarantino pays homage to his cinematic influences while crafting a film that stands on its own as a modern classic.
Even the title was inspired by other movies. The title ‘Reservoir Dogs’ is a malapropism of 1987 French film Au revoir les Enfants. Another movie thought to have influenced the name is “Straw Dogs” Directed by Sam Peckinpah.
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“I steal from every single movie ever made. If my work has anything, it’s that I’m taking this from this and that from that and mixing them together.” –Quentin Tarantino in an interview with Empire Magazine
The Influence of Hong Kong Cinema
One of the most prominent influences on “Reservoir Dogs” is Hong Kong action cinema, particularly the film “City on Fire.” Tarantino openly acknowledges the inspiration he drew from this film, with thematic and narrative similarities evident upon closer inspection. From the structure of the story to the characterization of the criminals, “City on Fire” provided a blueprint that Tarantino expertly adapted to create his own masterpiece. What Lady Snow Blood was to Kill Bill, “City on Fire” is to Reservoir Dogs.
A Tapestry of References
But the connections don’t stop there. Throughout “Reservoir Dogs,” Tarantino peppers his dialogue and scenes with nods to classic films, directors, and even television shows. Perhaps you thought Tarantino came up with the color-coded names. In fact, he pulled that from the original “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three.” In that 1974 classic, Walter Matthau stars as a New York transit cop who must keep gunmen who’ve hijacked a subway car from killing hostages if their $1,000,000 ransom demand is not met within an hour.
Catchy Tunes with Visceral Violence
In addition to the myriad of cinematic references and homages, Quentin Tarantino’s masterful use of music, particularly upbeat tracks during intense and violent scenes, is a signature aspect of his filmmaking style. “Stuck in the Middle with You” by Stealers Wheel, famously featured in the ear-cutting scene of “Reservoir Dogs,” exemplifies this technique. By juxtaposing catchy tunes with visceral violence, Tarantino creates a unique and memorable cinematic experience. This juxtaposition heightens the tension, making the scenes even more impactful and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Building the Tarantino Universe
“Reservoir Dogs” also serves as the foundation for what would become the Tarantino universe. Characters like Vic Vega (Mr. Blonde) and Vincent Vega would reappear in later films, linking the stories together in subtle yet significant ways. Even minor details, like the fictional brand of cigarettes smoked by characters, contribute to the rich tapestry of Tarantino’s cinematic universe.
Uncovering Hidden Gems
As dedicated cinephiles know, part of the joy of watching a Tarantino film lies in uncovering its hidden gems. Whether it’s spotting a familiar face in a cameo role or recognizing a subtle reference to a classic film, “Reservoir Dogs” rewards repeat viewings with new discoveries each time.
Just Some of the Movies Connected to “Reservoir Dogs”
“Reservoir Dogs” is much more than a crime thriller; it’s a love letter to cinema itself. Through its clever homages and intricate connections, Tarantino pays tribute to the films that inspired him while simultaneously carving out his own unique place in cinematic history. So, the next time you watch “Reservoir Dogs,” keep an eye out for those subtle nods and references—you never know what cinematic treasures you might uncover.