With Quentin Tarantino's surprising decision to cancel his eleventh film, *The Movie Critic*, fans are left eagerly anticipating what his next—and possibly final—project might be. In the meantime, what better way to celebrate his cinematic legacy than by embarking on a Tarantino-athon? Below, we've ranked all ten of his feature-length films, focusing solely on those he directed from start to finish. Note that we're not including his segments in *Sin City* or *Four Rooms* in this list.
It's worth mentioning that even Tarantino's least acclaimed films are often more compelling than many other directors' best works. So, as you dive into our rankings, keep in mind that every film here is a testament to his unique storytelling prowess.
Feel free to share your thoughts and your own rankings in the comments section below. Let's celebrate the genius of Quentin Tarantino together!
Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino
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10. Death Proof (2007)
Death Proof may not be as fun as Planet Terror, but it stands out as a smart homage to B-movies. It feels like a project crafted by a talented and confident filmmaker during a series of weekends, albeit with major studio backing and a rapid-fire script. The story of Stuntman Mike and his deadly car chase against a group of talkative women is a thrilling ride that revitalizes Kurt Russell's career. While the film's lengthy dialogue before the action kicks in can be polarizing, the climactic chase scene fueled by revenge is a must-see, especially in today's studio-dominated landscape.
9. The Hateful Eight (2015)
The Hateful Eight combines vicious humor with an intense narrative, offering a brutal look at race relations and human nature set against the backdrop of the Wild West. This film blends western and mystery genres with a touch of gallows humor, making it a compelling character study and a tribute to classic 70mm filmmaking. While it explores contemporary issues through its post-Civil War setting, some elements may feel familiar to Tarantino enthusiasts. However, the film's overall impact and storytelling prowess make it a standout in his oeuvre.
8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, featuring a character-driven, man-on-a-mission narrative. The film is structured like a series of theatrical plays, each filled with top-notch performances and suspenseful dialogue. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is one of Tarantino's most memorable villains, while Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character. Though the film's segments don't always coalesce into a single coherent narrative, each part is expertly crafted and engaging.
7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)
Kill Bill: Volume 2 continues The Bride's quest for revenge, focusing more on dialogue and character development than its action-packed predecessor. Uma Thurman delivers a powerful performance, showcasing a wide range of emotions. The film delves deeper into The Bride's backstory, providing context and motivation for her actions. The intense confrontation between The Bride and Elle Driver is a highlight, showcasing Tarantino's ability to blend humor with violence in a way that's both entertaining and thought-provoking.
6. Jackie Brown (1997)
Jackie Brown, Tarantino's adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, was initially seen as a step back from Pulp Fiction. However, over time, it has been recognized as one of his most restrained and character-driven works. The film follows Pam Grier's titular character as she navigates a complex plot involving Samuel L. Jackson's gun runner and Robert Forster's sympathetic bail bondsman. The dense yet accessible plot, combined with strong performances, makes Jackie Brown a compelling watch.
5. Django Unchained (2012)
Django Unchained is a bold and bloody tribute to spaghetti westerns, not shying away from the horrors of slavery. The film balances absurd comedy with brutal depictions of life in the antebellum South, delivering a crowd-pleasing experience. Christoph Waltz's performance as Dr. King Schultz and Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of the villainous Calvin Candie are standout elements, making Django Unchained a must-see for its blend of entertainment and social commentary.
4. Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood (2019)
Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood is Tarantino's latest masterpiece, offering an alternate history that reimagines the events surrounding the Manson Family in 1969. The film follows an aging actor and his stunt double, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt, respectively, as they navigate the changing landscape of Hollywood. With its emotional depth, stellar performances, and iconic needle drops, this film is a captivating time capsule that showcases Tarantino's storytelling at its best.
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 film's fast pace and one-location setting transform it into a minor epic, redefining crime cinema and influencing a generation of filmmakers. With standout performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Harvey Keitel, Reservoir Dogs is a seminal work that showcases Tarantino's innovative directing style.
2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked homage to revenge films, following The Bride's quest for vengeance after her wedding party is massacred. Uma Thurman's portrayal of The Bride is iconic, delivering both cool dialogue and action-hero prowess. The film's perfect casting and intense action sequences make it a thrilling experience that showcases Tarantino's ability to craft unforgettable cinematic moments.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction is a cultural phenomenon that changed the landscape of cinema. Its non-linear narrative, instantly quotable dialogue, and eclectic mix of characters—from Bible-quoting hitmen to leather-clad gimps—have left an indelible mark on pop culture. Tarantino's second film not only established him as a visionary director but also set a new standard for what films can achieve. With its rock-and-roll energy and innovative use of source music, Pulp Fiction remains a timeless classic.
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And that's 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 above.
