#109 - “Reservoir Dogs" - Tarantino's Genius Use of Non-Linear Storytelling

In this episode, we break down why Reservoir Dogs is one of Quentin Tarantino’s greatest storytelling achievements. We dive deep into how the non-linear structure amplifies tension, builds mystery, and reveals character dynamics in unexpected ways. We also explore the hidden depth of each character and how the script uses subtext, silence, and brutal honesty to drive the story forward. If you're into story structure, character psychology, or just love Tarantino, this one’s for you.

Chapters:

00:00:00 Intro Convo: The things only Tarantino can get away with

00:03:21 Tarantino on improv in his movies

00:09:40 Tarantino always giving himself the worst lines

00:12:11 The connections to the Tarantino cinematic universe

00:16:20 How the non-linear story makes the movie much more entertaining

00:20:48 What the robbery scene does for the audience

00:24:05 Why Tarantino held off on Mr. White & Mr. Blonde's backstory

00:28:43 Explaining Mr. White's psychopathic criminal moral compass

00:31:17 The Mr. Blonde torture scene intention

00:35:57 What Mr Oranges delayed backstory gives the audience

00:41:48 How the climax perfectly wraps everything we learned

00:46:12 What makes The Commode story such a great scene

00:48:53 The small details Tarantino gives his characters that say so much

00:53:23 Our official rating of Reservoir Dogs

00:57:39 Final thoughts

00:59:23 Cue the music