20 Must-Watch Crime and Thriller Movies Like Reservoir Dogs

Pulp Fiction, released in 1995, is a movie that should be on everyone's must-watch list. It is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs, the 1993 film that put director Quentin Tarantino on the map. Both movies fall under the Crime genre and share the key topics of nonlinear timeline and violence. However, Pulp Fiction takes these elements to a whole new level. While Reservoir Dogs is a heist-gone-wrong story, Pulp Fiction weaves together four tales of violence and redemption, featuring mob hitmen, a boxer, a gangster, and a pair of diner bandits. It's a cinematic masterpiece that changed the history of movies. Pulp Fiction's dialogue is sharp, with not a wasted line, and it credits the audience with intelligence. The film resurrected John Travolta's career and showcased Samuel L. Jackson's acting talent. It's a film that incorporates complexities that may not be immediately obvious.

Mulholland Falls is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in terms of its gritty crime theme and morally ambiguous characters. Just like in Reservoir Dogs, the four cops in Mulholland Falls are willing to bend the rules and use violent methods to dispense justice. However, while Reservoir Dogs focuses on a jewelry heist gone wrong, Mulholland Falls centers around the investigation of a murder in 1950s Los Angeles. Both movies explore the darker side of law enforcement and the lengths that individuals are willing to go to seek justice. Mulholland Falls also shares similarities with another period cop drama, L.A. Confidential, as they both delve into the corrupt underbelly of the city. Despite their similarities, Mulholland Falls stands out with its unique setting during the 1940s around New Mexico's White Plains nuclear testing site, which poses ethical challenges regarding nuclear testing.

The Hateful Eight, released in 2016, is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs. Both films are written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, showcasing his signature style and storytelling techniques. While Reservoir Dogs revolves around a heist gone wrong and the suspicion of a police informant among the surviving criminals, The Hateful Eight takes place in the dead of a Wyoming winter, where a bounty hunter and his prisoner seek shelter in a cabin inhabited by a collection of nefarious characters.
One of the notable similarities between the two movies is their exceptional dialogue. Tarantino's mastery of creating engaging and memorable conversations is evident in both films. However, The Hateful Eight takes this aspect to another level, with dialogue playing a prominent role that almost encompasses the entire first half of the movie. This heavy reliance on dialogue might put some audiences to sleep, but the film compensates by delivering stunning cinematography and a captivating musical score by Morricone, which creates a gripping atmosphere and maintains tension throughout.

Kill Bill: Vol. 1 takes us on a thrilling journey of revenge as a former assassin, who woke up from a coma, seeks vengeance on the team that betrayed her. This movie is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs, not just because Quentin Tarantino is the writer and director of both films, but also because of their shared nonlinear storytelling and unexpected plot twists. While Reservoir Dogs explores the aftermath of a heist gone wrong, Kill Bill: Vol. 1 delves into the world of assassins and their intricate dynamics. Both films showcase Tarantino's signature style of dialogue and violence, but Kill Bill: Vol. 1 takes it to a whole new level with its dazzling action sequences and unique storytelling. So, if you enjoyed the intense dialogue and unpredictable storyline of Reservoir Dogs, you should definitely watch Kill Bill: Vol. 1 and prepare yourself for an adrenaline-fueled ride filled with revenge, female empowerment, and a touch of Tarantino magic.

The Killing Time is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its neo-noir genre and its exploration of crime and thriller elements. Both movies delve into the dark and gritty world of criminal activities, with Reservoir Dogs focusing on a jewelry heist gone wrong and The Killing Time centering around a murder plan. However, while Reservoir Dogs captivates with its nonlinear timeline and Mexican standoff, The Killing Time falls short in comparison. The plot lacks the unpredictability and thrilling nature that made Reservoir Dogs a cult classic. Additionally, the performances in The Killing Time, though not bad, do not match the caliber of Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, and Michael Madsen in Reservoir Dogs. Although both movies share similarities in genre and themes, Reservoir Dogs remains the superior choice, offering a higher level of quality, originality, and entertainment value.

Kill Me Again is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs set in the 1940s Film Noir genre. Both movies share the key topics of neo noir and a thrilling plot. While Reservoir Dogs focuses on a jewelry heist gone wrong and the suspicion of a police informant, Kill Me Again follows a young detective who gets involved with a beautiful woman on the run from the mob and her psychopath boyfriend. The similar style and atmosphere of these movies make Kill Me Again a must-watch for fans of Reservoir Dogs. However, Kill Me Again deviates from its counterpart by incorporating elements of action and drama, adding an extra layer of excitement to the plot.

Dead Connection is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its neo-noir genre and crime thriller elements. Both movies involve a series of crimes and focus on the pursuit of the criminals. However, while Reservoir Dogs is known for its nonlinear timeline and intricate plot, Dead Connection follows a more straightforward narrative. The characters in Dead Connection, particularly the cop played by Michael Madsen, are reminiscent of the cool and enigmatic criminals in Reservoir Dogs. Despite its predictable nature, Dead Connection is still worth watching, especially for fans of Madsen's charismatic performances.

"Dad Savage" is reminiscent of "Reservoir Dogs" in its portrayal of a crime gone wrong and the quest for vengeance. While "Reservoir Dogs" focuses on a jewelry heist that goes awry, "Dad Savage" revolves around a father's search for his son's killer and stolen money. Both movies belong to the crime thriller genre and explore themes of betrayal and revenge. However, "Reservoir Dogs" stands out with its nonlinear timeline and Mexican standoff, while "Dad Savage" incorporates flashbacks and a tulip as key elements. Despite their differences, fans of "Reservoir Dogs" will appreciate the dramatic opening, strong performances, and the opportunity to see Patrick Stewart in a darker role in "Dad Savage.

Genealogies of a Crime is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its nonlinear timeline and the way it presents its story through flashbacks. Both movies keep the audience engaged by unfolding the plot in a non-chronological order, making us question the true sequence of events. However, while Reservoir Dogs revolves around a jewelry heist gone wrong and the suspicion of a police informant, Genealogies of a Crime focuses on the defense of a young man accused of murdering his wealthy aunt. The two films also differ in terms of their tone and style. Reservoir Dogs is known for its violence, snappy dialogue, and cool characters, while Genealogies of a Crime explores themes of psychoanalysis and the influence of stories on human behavior. Catherine Deneuve delivers a captivating performance as a lawyer unraveling the mystery, showcasing her grace and effortless acting. The film's twist ending serves as a powerful reminder of how the truth can be revealed through different perspectives.

Truth or Consequences, N.M. is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its portrayal of a heist gone wrong. Both movies delve into the criminal underworld, showcasing the consequences of their characters' actions. While Reservoir Dogs focuses on the suspicion of a police informant within the group, Truth or Consequences, N.M. explores the aftermath of a drug heist that doesn't go according to plan. Both films keep the audience engaged with their thrilling narratives, never slowing down or becoming dull. Additionally, the talented cast in both movies delivers compelling performances, with Harvey Keitel and Kiefer Sutherland standing out. However, Truth or Consequences, N.M. brings a different perspective by challenging the viewers' admiration of the criminals portrayed, making us question our own fascination with them. Despite sharing similarities, the two films have their unique flavor, ensuring an entertaining and thought-provoking experience for anyone who enjoys crime thrillers.

Following is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its crime genre and nonlinear timeline. Both movies involve characters who are involved in criminal activities and face unexpected twists and betrayals. While Reservoir Dogs focuses on a jewelry heist gone wrong, Following revolves around a young writer who follows strangers for material and ends up getting involved with a thief. Both films keep the audience on the edge of their seats, trying to piece together the puzzle of the storyline. However, Following has a shorter runtime and a lower people vote average compared to Reservoir Dogs, indicating that it may not have achieved the same level of impact. Nonetheless, for fans of Quentin Tarantino's distinctive style and gritty crime thrillers, Following is definitely worth a watch to see Christopher Nolan's early work and his development of themes that would later become hallmarks of his filmmaking career.

Blood, Guts, Bullets and Octane is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its genre and nonlinear timeline. However, while Reservoir Dogs is a gripping crime thriller with a cleverly woven plot, Blood, Guts, Bullets and Octane falls short in comparison. The camera work in Blood, Guts, Bullets and Octane is sloppy, with the focus slipping in and out and the camera constantly zooming in and out, which detracts from the viewing experience. Additionally, the dialogue scenes are overly long, and the action scenes lack the impact and excitement that one would expect. The story takes too long to get started, and when it does, it fails to deliver a satisfying payoff. Despite these flaws, it's worth noting that Joe Carnahan deserves credit for making this film on such a low budget. However, if you're looking for a thrilling and original crime film, Reservoir Dogs is the superior choice.

The Limey is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its nonlinear timeline and crime genre. Both movies take an unconventional approach to storytelling, keeping the audience engaged and on their toes. While Reservoir Dogs focuses on a jewelry heist gone wrong and the suspicion of a police informant, The Limey follows an Englishman seeking revenge for his daughter's death in Los Angeles. The Limey may not reach the same level of violence and originality as Reservoir Dogs, but it compensates with its excellent acting, interesting script, and riveting action sequences. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, The Limey is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. So if you enjoyed the sharp dialogue and unpredictable storyline of Reservoir Dogs, give The Limey a watch to experience another crime film with its own unique style and charm.

Moksha: Salvation is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its nonlinear timeline and black and white scenes. While Reservoir Dogs is a neo-noir crime thriller centered around a jewelry heist gone wrong, Moksha: Salvation tells the story of an idealistic lawyer who plans to rob a bank to help the poor. Both movies explore the consequences of morally questionable actions. However, Moksha: Salvation adds a touch of drama to its crime thriller genre, with its protagonist's emotional nature leading to an unforgivable deed that he severely repents. The black and white scenes in Moksha: Salvation are beautifully done and worth watching on a big screen, adding a unique visual element to the storytelling. Although it may be slower-paced compared to Reservoir Dogs, the deliberate pacing allows the audience to fully understand the hardships faced by the protagonist. Arjun Rampal delivers a strong performance, showcasing his potential as a talented actor with a commanding voice.

No Country for Old Men may remind you of Reservoir Dogs because both are crime films that delve into the dark and violent underbelly of society. While Reservoir Dogs focuses on a heist gone wrong and the suspicion of a police informant among the criminals, No Country for Old Men centers around a hunter who stumbles upon a drug deal gone awry and decides to keep the money for himself. Both movies explore the consequences of these choices and the violence that ensues.
However, the two films differ in their tone and execution. Reservoir Dogs, directed by Quentin Tarantino, is known for its sharp and witty dialogue, while No Country for Old Men, directed by the Coen brothers, places more emphasis on character development and philosophical musings. Reservoir Dogs uses nonlinear storytelling and Mexican standoffs to create tension, while No Country for Old Men takes a slower, more contemplative approach.
In terms of performances, both films boast stellar casts.

Dirty Little Trick is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its nonlinear timeline and its crime thriller genre. However, the similarities end there. While Reservoir Dogs is hailed as a classic with a stellar cast and a gripping plot, Dirty Little Trick falls short with its low-budget production and average storytelling. Reservoir Dogs keeps you on the edge of your seat with its brilliantly crafted dialogue and unpredictable storyline, while Dirty Little Trick offers a mildly entertaining experience at best. So, if you're a fan of Reservoir Dogs and looking for a movie that will keep you engaged from start to finish, Dirty Little Trick might not be the best choice. But hey, if you're in the mood for some B-grade entertainment and don't mind overlooking its shortcomings, give it a shot. Just don't expect it to live up to the brilliance of Reservoir Dogs.

The Fugitives is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs, but with a comedic twist. While Reservoir Dogs is a gripping crime thriller with a nonlinear timeline and intense Mexican standoffs, The Fugitives takes a lighthearted approach to a heist gone wrong. In Reservoir Dogs, the surviving criminals suspect a police informant among them, but in The Fugitives, the innocent Jean is mistakenly taken hostage by a foolish bank robber, leading the police to believe that Jean is the culprit. The plot takes a comical turn as everything goes hilariously awry. Despite the differences in tone, both movies showcase the talents of their respective directors, Quentin Tarantino and Francis Veber, who excel in crafting captivating stories. While Reservoir Dogs is known for its violence and gripping dialogue, The Fugitives is carried by tenderness and humanity.

"The Killing" is a classic film that will surely captivate you just like "Reservoir Dogs" did. Both movies share the theme of a heist gone wrong, but they approach it in different ways. While "Reservoir Dogs" focuses on the aftermath of the jewelry heist and the suspicion among the surviving criminals, "The Killing" takes us through the meticulous planning and execution of a racetrack robbery. The nonlinear timeline and neo-noir elements in "Reservoir Dogs" are reminiscent of the film noir style of "The Killing," which incorporates elements of crime, drama, and thriller genres. The dialogue in both movies is sharp and memorable, with quotable one-liners that make the characters stand out. However, what sets "The Killing" apart is its partly documentary style, which was considered innovative for its time. The film also explores the different motives of the gang members, adding depth to their characters.

The Front Line, released in 2006, is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs. Both movies fall under the crime and thriller genres and involve heists gone wrong. While Reservoir Dogs takes place in the US and centers around a jewelry heist, The Front Line is set in Dublin and revolves around a bank robbery. However, what sets The Front Line apart is its unique twist of having an African immigrant bank security guard forced to be the "inside man" during the robbery. This adds an interesting layer of cultural and social dynamics to the story. The Front Line not only delivers on the thrilling aspects of a heist movie but also offers a deeper exploration of identity and the thin line between good and evil. The performances in both movies are convincing, with standout portrayals from the main characters. While Reservoir Dogs has received more nominations and critical acclaim, The Front Line deserves recognition for its freshness and cinematic sophistication.

13 m² is reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs in its intense depiction of a heist gone wrong. Both movies explore the consequences of a failed robbery and the paranoia that ensues among the characters. However, while Reservoir Dogs focuses on a group of criminals suspecting each other of being an informant, 13 m² takes a different approach. In 13 m², the main character, José, and his friends are forced into hiding in a small bunker after their heist fails. The movie delves into the testing of their friendship and motivations as they try to survive in a confined space. While Reservoir Dogs is known for its sharp dialogues and nonlinear storytelling, 13 m² offers a more intimate and suspenseful exploration of the characters' psyches. If you enjoyed the tension and unpredictability of Reservoir Dogs, 13 m² provides a fresh take on the heist genre with its focus on friendship, motivations, and the psychological toll of being trapped in a small space.