In a surprising turn of events, Quentin Tarantino has decided to cancel his eleventh film, *The Movie Critic*, leaving fans curious about what the acclaimed director might choose as his next—and possibly final—project. While we eagerly await news of his next venture, there's no better time to embark on a Tarantino-athon. We've meticulously ranked his ten feature-length films, focusing solely on those he directed in their entirety, excluding segments from *Sin City* and *Four Rooms*.
It's important to note that even Tarantino's least celebrated films are often more compelling than the best efforts of many other filmmakers. With this in mind, let's dive into our ranking of Quentin Tarantino's top 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 might not be as thrilling as Planet Terror, but it stands out as a smart homage to B-movies. Imagine a talented filmmaker and friends crafting a film over weekends, backed by a major studio and driven by a fast-paced script. This film follows Stuntman Mike as he targets beautiful, chatty women with his supposedly safe car. While polarizing, it revitalized Kurt Russell's career and offers an engaging mix of dialogue and action. The climactic chase scene, fueled by revenge, is a testament to Tarantino's unique style, making Death Proof a must-watch, especially in today's studio-dominated landscape.
9. The Hateful Eight (2015)
The Hateful Eight blends vicious humor with an intense narrative, offering a brutal exploration of race relations and human nature set in the Wild West. This film combines elements of westerns and mysteries, enriched with gallows humor, making it a compelling character study and a tribute to 70mm filmmaking. Its post-Civil War setting allows for a nuanced look at contemporary issues, marking it as possibly Tarantino's most mature work. While some elements may feel familiar to fans, the overall story remains a powerful and engaging tale.
8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, structured as a series of interconnected vignettes rather than a singular narrative. Each segment is rich with top-notch performances and Tarantino's signature suspenseful dialogue. However, the film's extended conversations can overshadow its brief bursts of action. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is mesmerizing, while Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character. Despite its disjointed feel, the film's individual pieces are masterfully crafted.
7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)
Kill Bill: Volume 2 continues The Bride's (Uma Thurman) quest for revenge, focusing more on dialogue and character development than its action-packed predecessor. The film delves into The Bride's backstory, providing depth and motivation to her journey. The confrontation between The Bride and Elle Driver is a highlight, showcasing Tarantino's knack for violent beauty. Thurman's performance is a standout, showcasing her range and cementing her as a formidable presence in Tarantino's universe.
6. Jackie Brown (1997)
Initially overshadowed by Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has grown in esteem over the years. An adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, it showcases Tarantino's ability to handle character-driven stories with restraint. Pam Grier's portrayal of the titular character, alongside Samuel L. Jackson and Robert Forster, creates a compelling narrative around a $500,000 heist. The film's dense plot is engaging without being alienating, and it's a joy to watch actors like De Niro and Keaton thrive in Tarantino's world.
5. Django Unchained (2012)
Django Unchained fearlessly confronts the horrors of slavery while delivering a wild, bloody, and entertaining homage to spaghetti westerns. The film strikes a balance between absurd comedy and the brutal realities of the antebellum South, making it both a crowd-pleaser and a poignant narrative. The performances, particularly by Christoph Waltz and Leonardo DiCaprio, are exceptional, contributing to the film's status as a must-see.
4. Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood (2019)
Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood is not only one of Tarantino's finest works but also his second foray into alternate history, following Inglourious Basterds. The film follows an aging actor and his stunt double navigating the changing landscape of Hollywood in 1969, intersecting with the Manson Family. The performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie are captivating, and the film's emotional depth, combined with Tarantino's signature ultra-violence, makes it a memorable and impactful viewing experience.
3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and most tightly crafted film, blending pop culture references with essential plot and character development. The film's pacing is relentless, delivering star-making performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen, while Harvey Keitel elevates the material with his presence. Tarantino's innovative direction transforms a one-location story into a cinematic masterpiece, influencing countless filmmakers and cementing his status as a visionary director.
2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Kill Bill: Volume 1 is the first half of Tarantino's epic homage to The Bride Wore Black. Following The Bride's (Uma Thurman) quest for vengeance after her wedding party is massacred, the film is a blood-soaked spectacle. Thurman's performance is impeccable, seamlessly delivering Tarantino's dialogue and embodying the action hero archetype. The film's perfect casting and intense action sequences make it a standout in Tarantino's filmography.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction is a cultural phenomenon that changed the landscape of cinema. Its non-linear narrative, iconic dialogue, and memorable characters have left an indelible mark on pop culture. The film's blend of humor, violence, and philosophical musings, along with its unforgettable soundtrack, showcases Tarantino's unique vision. It's a testament to his ability to redefine what films can achieve, solidifying his place as one of the most influential filmmakers of his generation.
### 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 ranking in mind? Share your thoughts in the comments below or create your own Tarantino tier list using the tool provided above.
