Quentin Tarantino has recently announced the cancellation of his anticipated eleventh film, The Movie Critic, sparking curiosity about what his next—and potentially final—project might be. In the meantime, fans can indulge in a Tarantino-athon, revisiting his masterful catalog. Below, we've ranked his 10 feature-length films, keeping in mind that even Tarantino's "worst" films often surpass the best efforts of many other directors.
Feel free to share your thoughts and personal rankings in the comments section at the end of this page!
Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino
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10. Death Proof (2007)
Death Proof might not be as fun as Planet Terror, but it stands as a clever homage to B-movies. Directed with the flair of a talented filmmaker collaborating with friends, the film showcases Stuntman Mike's chilling pursuit of unsuspecting women in his death-proof car. While polarizing, especially outside of Cannes, Death Proof is a rare gem in today's studio-dominated landscape, featuring sharp dialogue and a thrilling chase sequence that revitalizes Kurt Russell's career.
9. The Hateful Eight (2015)
The Hateful Eight combines vicious humor with an intense narrative, exploring race relations and human nature through the lens of a post-Civil War western. This film is a character study that delves into contemporary issues, offering a nuanced and adult story. While it may echo themes from Reservoir Dogs, The Hateful Eight stands out with its 70mm filmmaking and Tarantino's signature blend of suspense and violence.
8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, featuring a theatrical structure with standout performances and suspenseful dialogue. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is unforgettable, while Brad Pitt's layered performance as Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to the film. Though it sometimes feels disjointed, the movie remains a compelling series of well-crafted scenes.
7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)
Kill Bill: Volume 2 continues The Bride's quest for revenge, focusing on her encounters with Elle Driver, Budd, and Bill. This volume is more dialogue-driven than its predecessor, showcasing Uma Thurman's range and exploring The Bride's backstory. The film's climax, featuring a brutal fight with Elle Driver, is a testament to Tarantino's ability to blend humor with intense action.
6. Jackie Brown (1997)
Initially seen as a stumble after Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's strongest and most restrained character-driven films. Based on Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, the movie features a dense yet accessible plot, with standout performances from Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, and Robert Forster, making it a compelling and enjoyable watch.
5. Django Unchained (2012)
Django Unchained confronts the horrors of slavery while delivering a thrilling, crowd-pleasing spaghetti western. Tarantino masterfully balances the film's tone, mixing humor with the brutal realities of the antebellum South. With standout performances from Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Christoph Waltz, this movie is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
4. Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood (2019)
Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood is not only one of Tarantino's finest works but also an alternate history narrative akin to Inglourious Basterds. The film follows an aging actor and his stunt double as they navigate the changing Hollywood landscape, intersecting with the Manson Family. Featuring powerful performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, the movie is a nostalgic and emotionally rich experience.
3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and tightest film, blending essential plot development with character-building and pop-cultural references. The movie's lightning-fast pace and star-making performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen, along with Harvey Keitel's elevating presence, make it an instant classic that redefined crime cinema.
2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Kill Bill: Volume 1 follows The Bride's quest for revenge after her wedding party is massacred. This blood-soaked epic features perfect casting, with Uma Thurman delivering both cool dialogue and fierce action. The film is a testament to Tarantino's ability to craft unforgettable characters and scenes.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction revolutionized cinema with its non-linear narrative and iconic dialogue. Featuring a blend of humor, violence, and unforgettable characters, the film changed the way movies are made and what audiences expect from them. From John Travolta's dance to Samuel L. Jackson's Bible-quoting hitman, Pulp Fiction remains a cultural touchstone and Tarantino's crowning achievement.
The best Quentin Tarantino movies
And that's our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino movies. Do you agree with our list, or would you rank them differently? Share your thoughts in the comments below or create your own Tarantino tier list using our handy tool above.
