Following a change of heart, Quentin Tarantino has decided to cancel his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, leaving fans curious about what his next—and likely final—project will be. As we await his next move, it's the perfect opportunity to embark on a Tarantino-athon. Below, we've ranked all ten of his feature-length films. Note that we're focusing on his full-length directorial efforts, so segments from Sin City and Four Rooms are not included.
It's important to mention that even Tarantino's least acclaimed films are often better than many other filmmakers' best works. With that in mind, let's dive into our rankings of the best Quentin Tarantino films. We encourage you to share your own rankings in the comments below!
Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino
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10. Death Proof (2007)
Image credit: Dimension FilmsStars: Kurt Russell, Rosario Dawson, Vanessa Ferlito | Release Date: April 6, 2007 | Review: IGN's Death Proof review
Death Proof may not be as exhilarating as Planet Terror, but it stands as one of the smartest homages to B-movies ever crafted. This film feels like a weekend project by one of the most talented and audacious filmmakers, albeit with the backing of a major production studio and a sharp, fast-paced script.
The story follows Stuntman Mike as he targets beautiful, chatty women with his death-proofed car, delivering a thrilling narrative that not only revitalizes Kurt Russell's career but also challenges viewers with nearly 40 minutes of dialogue before the action-packed scenes kick in. While Death Proof may polarize audiences, its lack of studio interference makes it a unique and must-watch film in today's cinematic landscape. The film's climactic chase, fueled by revenge and sheer excitement, is sure to captivate even the most skeptical viewers.
9. The Hateful Eight (2015)
Image credit: The Weinstein CompanyStars: Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason Leigh | Release Date: December 7, 2015 | Review: IGN's The Hateful Eight review
With its sharp humor and intense narrative, The Hateful Eight delves deeply into race relations and human nature, set against the backdrop of the Wild West. This film masterfully blends the western and mystery genres, adding a layer of gallows humor to create a compelling character study and a tribute to classic 70mm filmmaking.
Set in the post-Civil War era, The Hateful Eight tackles contemporary issues through its historical context, making it possibly Tarantino's most nuanced and mature work. While the film echoes themes from Reservoir Dogs, these familiar elements do not detract from its powerful storytelling and overall impact.
8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Image credit: The Weinstein CompanyStars: Brad Pitt, Eli Roth, Christoph Waltz | Release Date: May 20, 2009 | Review: IGN's Inglourious Basterds review
Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, Inglourious Basterds is a theatrical masterpiece that feels like a series of interconnected plays. Each segment is filled with exceptional performances and dialogue that builds suspense, a hallmark of Tarantino's style. However, the film's extended conversations can sometimes overshadow its brief bursts of action.
Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is unforgettable, delivering a performance that ranks among Tarantino's most chilling villains. Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine, initially a one-dimensional character, gains depth through Pitt's compelling and humorous performance. Despite its strong individual parts, Inglourious Basterds struggles to form a cohesive whole.
7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)
Image credit: Miramax FilmsStars: Uma Thurman, Daryl Hannah, David Carradine | Release Date: April 8, 2004 | Review: IGN's Kill Bill: Volume 2 review
Kill Bill: Volume 2 continues The Bride's (Uma Thurman) quest for vengeance against the remaining members of her hit list: Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah), Budd (Michael Madsen), and Bill (David Carradine). This installment shifts focus from action to dialogue, embodying Tarantino's signature style of slick conversation, pop culture references, and compelling characters.
The film delves into The Bride's backstory, providing depth and context to her motivations. The showdown between The Bride and Elle Driver in Budd's trailer is a masterclass in violent filmmaking, culminating in a satisfying and brutal conclusion.
6. Jackie Brown (1997)
Image credit: Miramax FilmsStars: Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Forster | Release Date: December 8, 1997 | Review: IGN's Jackie Brown review
Initially overshadowed by the success of Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's strongest and most restrained character-driven films. An adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, the movie takes Tarantino out of his usual comfort zone while still reflecting his deep admiration for Leonard's work.
The film follows Pam Grier's titular character as she navigates a complex plot involving Samuel L. Jackson's gun runner, Ordell, Robert Forster's bail bondsman, and Michael Keaton's ATF agent. The dense yet engaging plot, combined with standout performances, showcases Tarantino's ability to let actors shine within his unique cinematic world.
5. Django Unchained (2012)
Image credit: The Weinstein CompanyStars: Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz | Release Date: December 11, 2012 | Review: IGN's Django Unchained review
Django Unchained fearlessly confronts the horrors of slavery while delivering a thrilling, violent homage to spaghetti westerns. The film is designed as a crowd-pleaser, featuring over-the-top action and humor, yet it never shies away from the brutal realities of the era.
Tarantino masterfully balances the film's tone, weaving together absurd comedy with stark depictions of antebellum South life. The movie's unflinching portrayal of racism, though shocking, is historically accurate, making Django Unchained both a fun and essential watch.
4. Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood (2019)
Image credit: Sony PicturesStars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie | Release Date: May 21, 2019 | Review: IGN's Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood review
Tarantino's latest film, Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood, is not only one of his finest works but also his second foray into alternate history, following Inglourious Basterds. While maintaining its crowd-pleasing elements, the film offers a deeper emotional narrative, underscored by Tarantino's signature ultra-violence.
Set in 1969, the story follows an aging actor and his loyal stunt double as they navigate the changing film industry, crossing paths with the Manson Family. With standout performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt (who won an Oscar for his role), and Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate, the film is a nostalgic time capsule that blends intense moments with memorable music and captivating storytelling.
3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Image credit: Miramax FilmsStars: Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi | Release Date: January 21, 1992 | Review: IGN's Resevoir Dogs review
Reservoir Dogs, Tarantino's shortest and tightest film, is a masterclass in storytelling. Despite its focus on a single location, the film's brisk pace and clever dialogue keep viewers engaged from start to finish. Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen deliver breakout performances, while seasoned actors like Harvey Keitel elevate the film to new heights.
Tarantino's inventive direction transforms this seemingly simple story into a cinematic epic, redefining crime cinema and influencing a generation of filmmakers. His unique style has been emulated countless times, but none have matched the impact of this instant classic.
2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Image credit: Miramax FilmsStars: Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, Daryl Hannah | Release Date: October 10, 2003 | Review: IGN's Kill Bill: Vol. 1 review
Kill Bill: Volume 1 is the first part of Tarantino's homage to The Bride Wore Black, following The Bride (Uma Thurman) as she seeks revenge after being left for dead by her former lover Bill (David Carradine) and their cohorts. Waking from a four-year coma, she embarks on a global quest for vengeance.
This installment is a blood-soaked spectacle, with perfect casting and standout performances, especially from Uma Thurman. Her delivery of Tarantino's dialogue is iconic, and her transition to a pure action hero in the film's second half is seamless and exhilarating.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Image credit: Miramax FilmsStars: John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman | Release Date: May 21, 1994 | Review: IGN's Pulp Fiction review
In 1995, Pulp Fiction was pitted against Forrest Gump for the Best Picture Oscar, with Gump ultimately taking home the prize. However, Pulp Fiction left an indelible mark on pop culture, redefining cinematic storytelling with its non-linear narrative and instantly quotable dialogue.
The film is a blend of rock and roll energy and fanzine sensibility, featuring memorable characters, iconic scenes, and a soundtrack that enhances the storytelling. Tarantino's direction established him as a visionary filmmaker, inspiring a wave of imitators and influencing countless film school graduates. Pulp Fiction not only changed how movies were made but also raised the bar for what cinema could achieve.
### The best Quentin Tarantino moviesThe best Quentin Tarantino movies
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 handy tool above.
