Top Quentin Tarantino Films Ranked

Following a change of heart, Quentin Tarantino has canceled his eleventh film, *The Movie Critic*, leaving fans eager to see what the director's next (and likely final) movie will be. In the meantime, it's the perfect opportunity to embark on a Tarantino-athon. Below, we've ranked all ten of his feature-length films, noting that we're excluding his contributions to *Sin City* and *Four Rooms*.

It's worth mentioning that Tarantino hasn't made a truly bad film yet, just a few that aren't as stellar as his best work. So, keep that in mind as you explore our list. Even Tarantino's "worst" efforts often surpass the best of many other filmmakers.

Here are the best Quentin Tarantino films, ranked. We encourage you to share your own rankings in the comments section below!

Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino

11 Images10. Death Proof (2007)

Image credit: Dimension FilmsStars: Kurt Russell, Rosario Dawson, Vanessa Ferlito | Release Date: April 6, 2007 | Review: IGN's Death Proof review

Let's start with *Death Proof*. While it may not be as fun as *Planet Terror*, it stands as the smartest homage to B-movies ever created. The film feels like a project a talented and confident filmmaker might craft with friends over weekends, yet it's backed by major production resources and a rapid-fire script.

*Death Proof* follows Stuntman Mike as he targets beautiful, chatty women with his death-proof car. This film not only revitalized Kurt Russell's career but also challenges viewers with nearly 40 minutes of dialogue before diving into the action. It's polarizing, especially outside of Cannes, but its lack of studio interference makes it a rare gem. If the smart, fast-talking female leads aren't your thing, the climactic death chase, fueled by revenge and pure adrenaline, is bound to win you over.

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

*The Hateful Eight* combines vicious humor with an intense narrative, offering a brutal exploration of race relations and human nature. Tarantino blends the western and mystery genres, infusing them with gallows humor, resulting in a film that's both a character study and a tribute to 70mm filmmaking.

Set in the post-Civil War era, the film delves into contemporary issues through its historical lens, making it one of Tarantino's most nuanced and mature works. While some elements might feel familiar to Tarantino aficionados, with echoes of *Reservoir Dogs*, the film's overall impact is profound, overshadowing any minor quibbles.

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

*Inglourious Basterds* is Tarantino's homage to *The Dirty Dozen*, featuring a character-driven, mission-focused plot. It's more theatrical than his recent works, resembling a series of short plays. Each segment is filled with top-notch performances and Tarantino's signature dialogue-as-suspense, though the film's structure can feel disjointed due to its lengthy conversations punctuated by brief bursts of action.

Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is unforgettable, earning him an Oscar and cementing his place among Tarantino's most memorable villains. Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine starts as a one-dimensional character but gains depth through Pitt's terrifying yet hilarious performance. While *Inglourious Basterds* is a series of well-crafted pieces, they don't always coalesce into a single cohesive narrative.

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 revenge, focusing on the last three targets: Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah), Budd (Michael Madsen), and Bill (David Carradine). This volume shifts the focus from action to Tarantino's signature dialogue, pop culture references, and complex characters.

The film delves deeper into The Bride's backstory, providing motivations and explanations that enrich the narrative. The violent confrontation between The Bride and Elle in Budd's trailer is a highlight, showcasing Tarantino's flair for blending brutality with beauty. Uma Thurman's performance is outstanding, displaying a wide range of emotions and cementing her role as a formidable action hero.

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

Upon its release, *Jackie Brown* received positive reviews but was seen as a step down from the groundbreaking *Pulp Fiction*. As Tarantino's only adaptation, it took him out of his comfort zone, though Elmore Leonard's influence is evident throughout.

In retrospect, *Jackie Brown* is appreciated as one of Tarantino's most restrained and character-driven works. Pam Grier's titular character navigates a complex plot involving Samuel L. Jackson's gun runner, Robert Forster's bail bondsman, and Michael Keaton's ATF agent, all vying for $500,000. The film's dense yet accessible plot, combined with strong performances, showcases Tarantino's ability to let actors shine within his unique universe.

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* confronts the horrors of slavery while delivering a thrilling, violent homage to spaghetti westerns. Tarantino balances the film's tone expertly, oscillating between absurd comedy and the grim realities of the antebellum South. The film's casual racism, though shocking, is a poignant reflection of the era.

Despite its dark themes, *Django Unchained* remains a crowd-pleaser, filled with over-the-top violence and humor. It's a testament to Tarantino's skill in crafting films that entertain while addressing serious social issues.

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

*Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood*, Tarantino's most recent film, is not only one of his best but also his second major "What If...?" project, following *Inglourious Basterds*. The film offers a crowd-pleasing alternate history with a meaningful emotional core, without shying away from Tarantino's signature ultra-violence.

Set in 1969, the story follows an aging actor (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt double (Brad Pitt, who won an Oscar for his role) as they navigate Hollywood's changing landscape and cross paths with the Manson Family. Featuring stellar performances, iconic music, and intense moments, the film serves as a captivating time capsule.

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 film, is also his tightest. It's a masterclass in efficient storytelling, blending pop-cultural references with essential plot and character development. Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen deliver standout performances, while Harvey Keitel and Lawrence Tierney elevate the film to poetic heights.

Tarantino's creative direction transforms a single-location story into a cinematic epic, revolutionizing crime cinema and influencing countless filmmakers. In just 100 minutes, *Reservoir Dogs* became an instant classic, defining a generation of moviemaking.

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 Tarantino's homage to *The Bride Wore Black*, following The Bride (Uma Thurman) as she seeks revenge against her former lover Bill (David Carradine) and his deadly associates. After waking from a four-year coma, The Bride embarks on a global quest for vengeance.

This volume is a blood-soaked spectacle, with impeccable casting across the board. Uma Thurman's portrayal of The Bride is exceptional, effortlessly delivering Tarantino's iconic dialogue and transitioning into a fierce action hero when words fail. The film's action sequences are unforgettable, cementing its place as a modern classic.

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

*Pulp Fiction* famously competed against *Forrest Gump* for the Best Picture Oscar, with many believing Tarantino's film should have won. Its non-linear storytelling and cultural impact have made it a landmark film of the 1990s and beyond.

The film is a whirlwind of rock and roll energy, featuring instantly quotable dialogue, iconic scenes, and a perfect blend of humor and violence. From Bible-quoting hitmen to five-dollar milkshakes, *Pulp Fiction* showcases Tarantino's unique vision and his ability to use music as a storytelling tool. Its influence extends beyond cinema, inspiring countless filmmakers and becoming a cultural touchstone.

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 ranking? Share your thoughts in the comments below or use our tier list tool to create your own Tarantino rankings.