Top Quentin Tarantino Films Ranked

Following a change of heart, Quentin Tarantino has canceled his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, leaving us wondering what the director's next (and likely final) movie will be. While we wait, it's the perfect time to delve into a Tarantino-athon, so we've ranked each of the 10 feature-length films the filmmaker has directed below (Notice we said "feature-length," meaning we're overlooking the segments he helmed for Sin City and Four Rooms).

We don't think Tarantino's made a truly bad film yet, just a couple that aren't as good as his best efforts. So bear that in mind as you read the following list. Even the worst of Tarantino is usually better than any other filmmaker's best.

Here are the best Quentin Tarantino films, ranked. As always, remember to comment at the bottom of the page and let us know how you would rank Tarantino's films!

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 address this upfront: Death Proof might not be as thrilling as Planet Terror, yet it stands as one of the smartest homages to B-movies ever crafted. The film feels like a project that one of the most talented and audacious filmmakers would whip up with friends over a weekend, albeit with substantial backing and a script that moves at breakneck speed.

The story follows Stuntman Mike, who uses his death-proofed car to target beautiful, chatty women. This film not only revitalizes Kurt Russell's career but also challenges viewers with nearly 40 minutes of dialogue before the action kicks in. Death Proof is undeniably polarizing, but its lack of studio interference makes it a unique and must-watch film in today's cinematic landscape. If you're not into smart, fast-talking women, the film's climactic, revenge-fueled car chase will surely 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

Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight is a gripping blend of vicious humor and an intense narrative, offering a brutal exploration of race relations and human nature, set against the backdrop of the Wild West. By combining elements of western and mystery genres with dark humor, the film serves as both a deep character study and a tribute to classic 70mm filmmaking.

Set in the post-Civil War era, The Hateful Eight delves into contemporary issues through its historical lens, making it perhaps Tarantino's most nuanced and mature story to date. While the film does recycle some familiar Tarantino tropes, particularly reminiscent of Reservoir Dogs, this familiarity can sometimes predict the narrative turns. However, these minor critiques are overshadowed by the film's powerful storytelling and compelling character dynamics.

8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Image credit: The Weinstein CompanyStars: Brad Pitt, Eli Roth, Christoph Waltz | Release Date: May 20, 2009 | Review: IGN's Inglorious Basterds review

Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, featuring a character-driven, mission-focused plot. The film is structured more like a series of theatrical plays than a single narrative, echoing the style of Reservoir Dogs. Each segment is packed with top-tier performances and Tarantino's signature suspenseful dialogue. However, the film's strength lies in its individual scenes rather than its overall cohesion, often leading to extended conversations punctuated by brief bursts of action.

Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is a standout, delivering a performance that is both charming and menacing. Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine, initially a one-dimensional character, gains depth through Pitt's charismatic and humorous performance. Despite its disjointed feel, Inglourious Basterds is a collection of well-crafted segments that showcase Tarantino's skill, even if they don't fully mesh into a single 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) journey of vengeance as she targets the remaining members of her hit list: Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah), Budd (Michael Madsen), and Bill (David Carradine). Tarantino promised that Volume 2 would focus more on his classic style of sharp dialogue and pop culture references, and it delivers on that promise, arguably being his most dialogue-heavy film to date. Uma Thurman's performance is a highlight, showcasing a wide range of emotions.

The film deepens The Bride's backstory, providing motivations and context that enrich the narrative. The confrontation between The Bride and Elle Driver in Budd's trailer is a masterclass in violent storytelling. Volume 2 not only satisfies fans' thirst for action but also offers a more introspective look at its characters.

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 in 1997, Jackie Brown received positive reviews but was seen as a step back from the groundbreaking Pulp Fiction. As Tarantino's only adaptation, of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, it took him out of his comfort zone, though Leonard's influence is evident throughout Tarantino's work.

In recent years, however, Jackie Brown has been reevaluated as one of Tarantino's strongest and most restrained character-driven films. The story follows Pam Grier's titular character as she navigates a complex plot involving Samuel L. Jackson's gun runner, Robert Forster's bail bondsman, and Michael Keaton's no-nonsense ATF agent. The film's dense yet accessible plot, combined with the joy of seeing actors like De Niro and Keaton in Tarantino's world, makes Jackie Brown a standout in his oeuvre.

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 is a bold and bloody homage to spaghetti westerns that doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of slavery. The film is designed to entertain, and it succeeds with its over-the-top violence and humor, yet it also tackles serious themes with nuance.

Tarantino masterfully balances the film's tone, weaving between absurd comedy and the harsh realities of life for slaves in the antebellum South. The film's depiction of casual racism is both shocking and historically accurate, adding depth to its narrative. Despite its dark subject matter, Django Unchained remains a thrilling and enjoyable 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

Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood is not only one of Tarantino's best films but also his second foray into alternate history, following Inglourious Basterds. The film delivers crowd-pleasing moments while offering a poignant emotional narrative, all while maintaining Tarantino's signature ultra-violence.

Set in 1969, the story follows an aging actor (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt double (Brad Pitt) as they navigate the changing landscape of Hollywood, inadvertently intersecting with the Manson Family. The film features standout performances from DiCaprio, Pitt (who won an Oscar for his role), and Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate. It's a nostalgic time capsule filled with excellent performances, iconic music, and moments of intense drama.

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 most tightly constructed. It balances pop-cultural references with essential plot development and character building, moving at a relentless pace. The performances by Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen are career-defining, while seasoned actors like Lawrence Tierney and Harvey Keitel elevate the film to new heights.

Tarantino's creative direction turns a story largely confined to one location into a minor epic, revolutionizing crime cinema and influencing a generation of filmmakers. In just 100 minutes, Tarantino crafted an instant classic that not only launched his career but also set a new standard for storytelling in film.

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 on her former lover Bill (David Carradine) and his associates after they massacre her wedding party. Waking from a four-year coma, The Bride embarks on a global quest for vengeance.

Volume 1 is a blood-soaked spectacle, with impeccable casting and standout performances, particularly from Uma Thurman. Her delivery of Tarantino's dialogue is both cool and memorable, and her transition to a full-fledged action hero in the film's second half is seamless and thrilling.

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 competed for the Best Picture Oscar against Forrest Gump, with Gump ultimately winning. However, Pulp Fiction's impact on pop culture is undeniable. The film's non-linear narrative, iconic dialogue, and eclectic characters have left a lasting legacy.

Pulp Fiction is a rock and roll cinematic experience, filled with memorable scenes and lines that continue to be quoted. From Bible-quoting hitmen to five-dollar milkshakes, the film captures the essence of Tarantino's style. It not only changed how movies were made but also raised the bar for what audiences expect from cinema. For a second film, Pulp Fiction set an incredibly high standard.

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 create your own Tarantino tier list using our handy tool above.