In a surprising turn of events, Quentin Tarantino has decided to cancel his much-anticipated eleventh film, The Movie Critic. This unexpected decision leaves fans eagerly anticipating what the iconic director's next—and possibly final—project will be. In the meantime, what better way to celebrate Tarantino's cinematic legacy than by embarking on a Tarantino-athon? We've meticulously ranked all ten of his feature-length films, focusing solely on those he directed from start to finish. Note that we're excluding his contributions to anthology films like Sin City and Four Rooms.
It's worth mentioning that even Tarantino's least acclaimed films are often superior to many other directors' best works. With that in mind, let's dive into our ranking of Quentin Tarantino's films. We encourage you to share your thoughts and 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 homage to B-movies. The film feels like a project crafted by a talented and confident filmmaker during a series of weekends, albeit with significant backing and a sharp script. The narrative follows Stuntman Mike, who uses his death-proofed car to target unsuspecting women. While the film's lengthy dialogue might polarize audiences, its climactic chase scene, fueled by revenge and sheer excitement, is a thrilling payoff. Death Proof is a unique, studio-free work that's a must-watch in today's cinematic landscape.
9. The Hateful Eight (2015)
The Hateful Eight combines vicious humor with a gripping narrative, offering a brutal exploration of race relations and human nature set against the backdrop of the Wild West. This film masterfully blends western and mystery genres, delivering an intense character study while paying homage to classic 70mm filmmaking. Set in the post-Civil War era, it delves into contemporary issues with nuance and maturity. While some elements may echo Tarantino's previous works, particularly Reservoir Dogs, the overall story remains compelling and thought-provoking.
8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's tribute to The Dirty Dozen, featuring a character-driven, mission-focused plot. The film unfolds like a series of theatrical plays, each filled with stellar performances and Tarantino's signature dialogue-driven suspense. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is a standout, delivering a chilling yet captivating performance. While the film excels in its individual segments, it struggles to coalesce into a unified narrative, often feeling disjointed due to its extended conversations and brief bursts of action.
7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)
Kill Bill: Volume 2 continues The Bride's quest for vengeance, focusing more on dialogue and character development than its action-packed predecessor. Uma Thurman delivers a powerful performance, showcasing a wide range of emotions as she confronts the remaining members of her hit list. The film delves deeper into The Bride's backstory, providing context and motivation that enrich the narrative. The confrontation with Elle Driver is a highlight, blending violence with dark humor in a way that only Tarantino can.
6. Jackie Brown (1997)
Initially overshadowed by the success of Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's most restrained and character-driven films. An adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, it follows Pam Grier's titular character as she navigates a complex plot involving a gun runner, a bail bondsman, and an ATF agent. The film's dense yet engaging plot, combined with strong performances from its ensemble cast, showcases Tarantino's ability to craft compelling narratives outside his usual comfort zone.
5. Django Unchained (2012)
Django Unchained is a bold and bloody homage to spaghetti westerns, tackling the horrors of slavery head-on while delivering a crowd-pleasing narrative. The film balances humor and violence with scenes that highlight the brutal realities of the antebellum South. Despite its dark themes, Django Unchained remains a fun and engaging watch, thanks to its over-the-top action and memorable performances.
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 as they navigate the changing landscape of Hollywood. With standout performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, the movie is a nostalgic time capsule filled with emotional depth and intense moments. It's a testament to Tarantino's ability to blend historical fiction with his signature style.
3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and most tightly crafted film, blending pop culture references with essential plot development and character building. The film's fast pace and one-location setting transform it into a gripping narrative that redefined crime cinema. With standout performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen, and elevated by seasoned actors like Harvey Keitel, Reservoir Dogs is a seminal work that launched Tarantino's career and influenced a generation of filmmakers.
2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked epic that follows The Bride's quest for revenge after her wedding party is massacred. Uma Thurman's portrayal of The Bride is both fierce and nuanced, delivering Tarantino's dialogue with cool precision. The film's action sequences are a highlight, showcasing Tarantino's ability to craft visually stunning and thrilling scenes. Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a testament to Tarantino's skill in blending homage with original storytelling.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction is a cultural phenomenon that redefined cinema in the 1990s. Its non-linear narrative, iconic dialogue, and eclectic mix of characters have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From the Bible-quoting hitman to the five-dollar milkshake, the film is a rollercoaster of humor, violence, and unforgettable moments. Tarantino's direction and use of music elevate the film, making it not just a movie but a cultural touchstone that continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.
The best Quentin Tarantino movies
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!
