Quentin Tarantino has decided to cancel his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, sparking curiosity about what his next—and possibly final—project might be. As we await further news, it's an ideal time to indulge in a Tarantino-athon. We've ranked his 10 feature-length films below, keeping in mind that we're not including segments from Sin City or Four Rooms.
While Tarantino has never produced a truly bad film, some of his works shine brighter than others. Even his least acclaimed films are often superior to many other directors' best efforts. Here's our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino films. We encourage you to share your own rankings in the comments section below!
Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino
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10. Death Proof (2007)
Death Proof may not be as entertaining as Planet Terror, but it stands out as a clever tribute to B-movies. Imagine a film crafted by one of the most talented filmmakers during a series of weekends, backed by a major production outfit and a rapid-fire script. The tale of Stuntman Mike targeting beautiful, chatty women with his death-proof car is a thrilling ride, revitalizing Kurt Russell's career and leading to an exhilarating 40-minute dialogue buildup before the action kicks in. This film, while polarizing, is a unique, studio-free gem in today's cinematic landscape. The climax—a revenge-fueled chase—will captivate even the most skeptical viewers.
9. The Hateful Eight (2015)
The Hateful Eight combines sharp humor with a gripping narrative, offering a raw examination of race relations and human nature set against the backdrop of the Wild West. This blend of western and mystery genres, enriched with dark humor, serves as both a character study and a homage to classic 70mm filmmaking. The film delves into contemporary issues through its post-Civil War setting, making it one of Tarantino's most nuanced and mature works. While some elements may feel familiar to fans, the overall story remains powerful and compelling.
8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, a character-driven mission film. It feels more like a series of theatrical vignettes than a cohesive movie, showcasing Tarantino's flair for dialogue and suspense. Each segment is packed with stellar performances, especially Christoph Waltz's chilling portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa. Brad Pitt's portrayal of Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to what could have been a flat character. Though the film is heavy on dialogue leading to brief bursts of action, it remains a testament to Tarantino's writing prowess.
7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)
Kill Bill: Volume 2 continues The Bride's (Uma Thurman) journey of vengeance, focusing on the remaining targets on her list. This installment shifts gears, emphasizing Tarantino's signature dialogue and character development over action. The film provides a deeper look into The Bride's motivations, culminating in a memorable confrontation with Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah). Thurman's performance is the heart of the movie, showcasing her emotional range and commanding presence.
6. Jackie Brown (1997)
Initially perceived as a step back after Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's strongest works. Adapted from Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, the film showcases Tarantino's skill in character-driven storytelling. Pam Grier's titular character navigates a complex plot involving Samuel L. Jackson's gun runner and Robert Forster's sympathetic bail bondsman. The dense yet engaging plot, combined with stellar performances, makes Jackie Brown a standout in Tarantino's oeuvre.
5. Django Unchained (2012)
Django Unchained boldly confronts the horrors of slavery while delivering a thrilling, violent homage to spaghetti westerns. The film masterfully balances humor and brutality, capturing the essence of the antebellum South. Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Christoph Waltz deliver compelling performances, making this a must-watch that entertains while addressing serious themes.
4. Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood (2019)
Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood, Tarantino's latest film, is a compelling alternate history that follows an aging actor and his stunt double in 1969 Hollywood, intersecting with the Manson Family. The film, featuring standout performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, is both a nostalgic time capsule and a thrilling narrative. It's a testament to Tarantino's ability to blend emotional depth with his signature ultra-violence.
3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and most tightly constructed film. It's a masterclass in pacing and character development, transforming a single-location heist-gone-wrong into a gripping narrative. The film's influence on crime cinema and filmmaking at large is undeniable, with standout performances by Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Harvey Keitel. Tarantino's debut announced his arrival as a visionary director, setting a new standard for storytelling.
2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked epic following The Bride (Uma Thurman) on her quest for vengeance against those who left her for dead. This installment is packed with action, with Thurman delivering a standout performance as both a cool, dialogue-driven character and a formidable action hero. The film's global journey and impeccable casting make it a thrilling tribute to martial arts cinema.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction is a cultural phenomenon that reshaped cinema. Its non-linear narrative, iconic dialogue, and eclectic characters have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From the Bible-quoting hitman to the unforgettable dance scene, the film blends humor, violence, and a rock-and-roll energy that redefined what movies can achieve. Tarantino's sophomore effort not only established him as a major force in filmmaking but also set a new benchmark for storytelling and style.
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That concludes our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino films. Do you agree with our list, or do you have a different order in mind? Share your thoughts in the comments below or create your own Tarantino tier list using the tool provided above.
