In a surprising turn of events, Quentin Tarantino has decided to cancel his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, sparking widespread curiosity about what his next—and likely final—project will be. As we eagerly await his next move, it's the perfect time to indulge in a Tarantino-athon. Here, we've meticulously ranked his 10 feature-length films, noting that we're focusing solely on his directorial works and not his segments in Sin City and Four Rooms.
It's important to highlight that even Tarantino's least acclaimed films are often considered superior to many other directors' best works. So, as you peruse our list, keep in mind that these rankings reflect subtle distinctions among exceptional films.
Feel free to share your thoughts and your own rankings in the comments section at the bottom of the page!
Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino
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10. Death Proof (2007)
Death Proof may not match the fun factor of Planet Terror, but it stands out as an intelligent tribute to B-movies. It feels like a project crafted by one of the most talented and audacious filmmakers during a series of spirited weekends, supported by a major studio. The film follows Stuntman Mike, portrayed by Kurt Russell, who uses his "death-proofed" car to terrorize women. The movie's lengthy dialogue sets the stage for its intense, rewarding action sequences. While polarizing, Death Proof remains a unique, studio-unfiltered work that's a must-watch in today's cinematic landscape.
9. The Hateful Eight (2015)
The Hateful Eight combines vicious humor with a gripping narrative, delving deeply into race relations and human nature. This film masterfully blends western and mystery genres, delivering a character-driven story that's as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. Set post-Civil War, it explores contemporary issues through a historical lens, making it one of Tarantino's most mature works. While it shares some familiar elements with Reservoir Dogs, the overall impact of the story remains powerful and engaging.
8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, featuring a character-driven script that feels like a series of theatrical vignettes. Each segment is packed with top-notch performances and suspenseful dialogue. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is chillingly brilliant, while Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to an otherwise straightforward role. The film's strength lies in its individual scenes, though they don't always coalesce into a unified narrative.
7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)
Kill Bill: Volume 2 shifts focus to The Bride's (Uma Thurman) ongoing quest for vengeance. This installment leans heavily into Tarantino's signature style of slick dialogue and character development, with less emphasis on action. The film delves into The Bride's backstory, offering insight into her motivations and adding depth to the narrative. The climactic confrontation with Elle Driver is a highlight, showcasing Tarantino's ability to blend violence with humor and emotion.
6. Jackie Brown (1997)
Initially seen as a stumble after Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's most restrained and character-driven films. An adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, it showcases Tarantino's ability to work outside his comfort zone while still delivering compelling storytelling. The film follows Pam Grier's titular character as she navigates a complex web of criminals and law enforcement, with standout performances from Samuel L. Jackson and Robert Forster.
5. Django Unchained (2012)
Django Unchained confronts the horrors of slavery head-on while delivering a wildly entertaining homage to spaghetti westerns. Tarantino masterfully balances humor and brutality, creating a film that's both a crowd-pleaser and a poignant commentary on racial injustice. The performances, especially from Christoph Waltz and Leonardo DiCaprio, are exceptional, making Django Unchained a must-see cinematic experience.
4. Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood (2019)
Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood not only ranks among Tarantino's finest works but also serves as his second alternate history project after Inglourious Basterds. The film explores the fading Hollywood of 1969 through the eyes of an aging actor (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt double (Brad Pitt), with their paths intersecting with the Manson Family. It's a nostalgic yet intense journey, featuring standout performances and a gripping, emotionally charged narrative.
3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and most tightly constructed film. Despite its single-location setting, it feels expansive, thanks to Tarantino's dynamic direction and the stellar performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Harvey Keitel. This film not only transformed crime cinema but also set a new standard for storytelling, cementing Tarantino's place as a visionary filmmaker.
2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked tribute to revenge cinema, centered around The Bride (Uma Thurman) as she seeks retribution against those who wronged her. The film is a showcase for Thurman's versatility, seamlessly transitioning from delivering Tarantino's sharp dialogue to embodying a fierce action hero. The ensemble cast, including Lucy Liu and Daryl Hannah, adds to the film's relentless energy and style.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction is not just a film; it's a cultural phenomenon that redefined cinema. Its non-linear storytelling, iconic dialogue, and eclectic mix of characters have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From the Bible-quoting hitman Jules (Samuel L. Jackson) to the enigmatic Vincent Vega (John Travolta), the film is a masterclass in character development and narrative innovation. Tarantino's second feature established him as a groundbreaking director and set a new benchmark for what movies could achieve.
And there you have it—our definitive ranking of Quentin Tarantino's best films. Whether you agree with our list or have your own rankings, we invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below or create your own Tarantino tier list using our interactive tool.
