Quentin Tarantino's decision to cancel his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, has left fans eager to see what his next—and possibly final—project might be. In the meantime, there's no better opportunity to dive into a Tarantino-athon and revisit his remarkable filmography. Below, we've ranked his ten feature-length films, focusing on the unique storytelling and stylistic flair that define his work. Note that this list excludes his contributions to anthology films like Sin City and Four Rooms.
While Tarantino has yet to make a truly bad film, some entries stand out less than others. Yet, even his least acclaimed works are often more compelling than many other directors' best efforts. As you explore our rankings, consider sharing your own list in the comments below.
Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino
11 Images
10. Death Proof (2007)
Death Proof may not be as fun as Planet Terror, but it's a smart homage to B-movies. It feels like a project born from a weekend with friends, yet it's elevated by a rapid-fire script and major production funding. Stuntman Mike's chilling pursuit of his victims is a thrilling ride, revitalizing Kurt Russell's career and delivering a memorable climax. This film stands out for its lack of studio interference, making it a rare gem in today's film industry.
9. The Hateful Eight (2015)
The Hateful Eight combines intense storytelling with vicious humor, exploring race relations and human nature against the backdrop of the Wild West. Tarantino's blend of western and mystery genres, along with his signature gallows humor, makes for a compelling character study. The film's post-Civil War setting allows for a nuanced exploration of contemporary issues, though some elements may feel familiar to Tarantino enthusiasts.
8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, Inglourious Basterds is more theatrical than his other works, reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs. The film is divided into segments filled with first-rate performances and dialogue-driven suspense. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is unforgettable, while Brad Pitt adds depth to the character of Lt. Aldo Raine. Despite its brilliance, the film's structure can feel disjointed at times.
7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)
Kill Bill: Volume 2 shifts focus from action to dialogue, delving deeper into The Bride's backstory and motivations. Uma Thurman delivers a powerful performance, showcasing a wide range of emotions. The film's highlight is the brutal confrontation between The Bride and Elle Driver, offering a satisfying conclusion to their rivalry.
6. Jackie Brown (1997)
Initially seen as a stumble after Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's strongest works. An adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, the film features a dense yet engaging plot and showcases Tarantino's ability to work with seasoned actors like Pam Grier and Samuel L. Jackson.
5. Django Unchained (2012)
Django Unchained blends the horrors of slavery with the thrill of a spaghetti western, delivering a crowd-pleasing yet thought-provoking film. Tarantino's ability to balance humor and brutality is evident, making this film both entertaining and impactful.
4. Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood (2019)
Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood is a captivating alternate history that explores the lives of an aging actor and his stunt double in 1969 Hollywood. The film's emotional depth, combined with Tarantino's signature style, makes it a standout. Stellar performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie contribute to its success.
3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and tightest film, with every scene driving the plot or developing characters. The film's fast pace and star-making performances by Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen, along with Harvey Keitel's seasoned presence, elevate it to an instant classic. Tarantino's direction transforms a single-location story into a cinematic epic.
2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked homage to revenge films, with Uma Thurman delivering a standout performance as The Bride. The film's action-packed sequences and memorable dialogue cement its place in Tarantino's oeuvre.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction is a non-linear masterpiece that changed the landscape of cinema. Its impact on pop culture is undeniable, with memorable characters, quotable dialogue, and a rock and roll energy that sets it apart. Tarantino's second film not only established him as a visionary director but also set a new standard for storytelling in film.
And that concludes our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino movies. 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 our interactive tool.
