Common Sense Media Review
Raw and bloody. For adults.
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Reservoir Dogs
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 30 parent reviews
Parents say that while this movie is a thrilling and entertaining heist film celebrated for its strong performances and clever dialogue, it is highly unsuitable for children due to its excessive violence, graphic torture scenes, and pervasive profanity. Most reviewers suggest it is appropriate for older teenagers who can handle its complex, mature themes and moral messages about crime and its consequences.
- violent content
- strong language
- mature themes
- suitable for teens
- complex plot
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 84 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a masterpiece of storytelling and character development, showcasing Tarantino's distinctive style with vibrant dialogue and intense tension, but it also contains graphic violence and overwhelming profanity that may not be suitable for younger audiences. Many reviews highlight the excessive bloodshed, particularly the infamous ear-cutting scene, while opinions vary on whether it’s appropriate for teens aged 13 and up, with some praising its artistic merits despite its mature themes.
- masterful storytelling
- graphic violence
- excessive profanity
- directed by tarantino
- suitable for older teens
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
RESERVOIR DOGS is the film that put Quentin Tarantino into the cinematic spotlight. Not only did he write and direct the film, but he is also featured in the role of Mr. Brown, one of a seven-member group of jewel thieves. His trademarks of amplified violence and vulgar dialogue are in full force, as are the flurry of obscure to not-so-obscure pop culture references woven into the dialogue. Cleverly, and famously, the heist is never actually shown, and in truth, the crime itself is not the point. The presence of an undercover cop amongst the thieves exists as the dramatic crux of the film.
Is It Any Good?
Resevoir Dogs ranks as one of the finest, and most gut-wrenching, crime dramas ever, but is certainly not for the faint of heart. Even at this early stage in his career, Tarantino does expertly builds tension, interweaving scenes of the aftermath of the thieves' foiled heist with scenes depicting them getting ready for the heist.
The film also features great performances from a knockout cast including Steve Buscemi, Harvey Keitel, and Tim Roth.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence and language here. Would the story have been as powerful if it had been less explicit? Do you think the mature material makes it more appealing to younger audiences?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 1, 1992
- On DVD or streaming : November 15, 2022
- Cast : Chris Penn , Harvey Keitel , Tim Roth
- Director : Quentin Tarantino
- Studio : Artisan Entertainment
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 100 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : strong violence and language.
- Last updated : December 11, 2025
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