Reservoir Dogs, released in 1992, marks Quentin Tarantino's explosive feature-length directorial debut, immediately establishing his signature blend of violent crime, pop culture references, profanity, and nonlinear storytelling. The film stars an ensemble cast, including Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, and Michael Madsen, as a group of diamond thieves whose meticulously planned jewelry store heist goes terribly wrong. Forced to regroup at a warehouse hideout, the surviving "Misters" – like Mr. White, Mr. Orange, and Mr. Pink – descend into a maelstrom of paranoia, suspicion, and brutal interrogation as they try to uncover the informant among them.

Initially controversial for its graphic violence and heavy use of profanity, Reservoir Dogs quickly gained critical acclaim for its sharp dialogue and strong performances, becoming a classic independent and cult film. Despite modest initial success, its reputation soared following Tarantino's next hit, Pulp Fiction (1994), cementing its legacy. It has since been lauded as a landmark of modern cinema, even being named the "Greatest Independent Film of All Time" by Empire magazine.