Top Quentin Tarantino Films Ranked

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's next—and likely final—project will be. As we eagerly await news of his next endeavor, there's no better time to embark on a Tarantino-athon. Below, we've ranked all ten of his feature-length films, keeping in mind that even Tarantino's lesser works often outshine the best of other filmmakers. Dive into this list and let us know your thoughts 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

While Death Proof may not be as rollicking as Planet Terror, it stands as one of the smartest tributes to B-movies ever crafted. This film feels like a weekend project by a talented and audacious filmmaker, complete with a rapid-fire script and a major studio's backing. The narrative follows Stuntman Mike, who uses his death-proofed car to target unsuspecting women. With nearly 40 minutes of dialogue before the action kicks in, the movie revitalizes Kurt Russell's career and delivers a thrilling climax that will satisfy even the skeptics. Though polarizing, Death Proof is a unique, studio-free work that's a must-watch in today's cinematic landscape.

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 combines vicious humor with a gripping story, offering a brutal exploration of race relations and human nature set against the backdrop of the Wild West. This film melds western and mystery genres with a touch of gallows humor, resulting in a profound character study and a tribute to classic 70mm filmmaking. Set post-Civil War, The Hateful Eight delves into contemporary issues, marking it as one of Tarantino's most mature narratives. While some elements may echo his earlier works like Reservoir Dogs, the overall tale stands strong despite 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

Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, Inglourious Basterds, is more akin to a series of theatrical vignettes than a single narrative. Each segment boasts stellar performances and Tarantino's signature dialogue-driven suspense. However, the film's extended conversations leading up to brief bursts of action can feel overwhelming. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is a standout, while Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine adds layers to an otherwise one-dimensional character. Though the film's pieces don't fully coalesce, they are individually strong and expertly crafted.

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, Vol. 2 continues The Bride's (Uma Thurman) quest for vengeance against her former allies. Promised to be more dialogue-heavy and less action-oriented, the film indeed becomes Tarantino's most talkative yet. It delves deeper into The Bride's backstory, enriching the narrative and revealing her motivations. The confrontation between The Bride and Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah) is a highlight, showcasing Tarantino's flair for intense, violent sequences. Uma Thurman's commanding performance anchors the film, displaying a wide emotional range.

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

Initially overshadowed by the success of Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's strongest and most restrained character-driven films. Adapted from Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, the movie follows Pam Grier's titular character as she navigates a web of deceit involving Samuel L. Jackson's gun runner and Robert Forster's bail bondsman. The plot is intricate yet accessible, and it's a delight to see actors like De Niro and Keaton thrive in Tarantino's world.

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, violent homage to spaghetti westerns that doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of slavery. Tarantino masterfully balances the film's tone, oscillating between comedic absurdity and the stark horrors of the antebellum South. Despite its grim subject matter, the movie remains a crowd-pleaser, packed with thrilling action and unforgettable moments.

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

Tarantino's latest masterpiece, Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood, is a captivating alternate history that follows an aging actor and his stunt double as they navigate the changing landscape of Hollywood in 1969. The film intertwines their story with the Manson Family, resulting in a narrative rich with emotional depth and Tarantino's signature ultra-violence. Stellar performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, along with the film's nostalgic atmosphere and intense moments, make it a standout in Tarantino's oeuvre.

3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Image credit: Miramax FilmsStars: Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi | Release Date: January 21, 1992 | Review: IGN's Reservoir Dogs review

Tarantino's debut feature, Reservoir Dogs, is a tightly knit, fast-paced crime drama that transformed the genre. The film's blend of pop culture references and essential plot development, coupled with standout performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen, elevates it to an instant classic. Tarantino's innovative directing and economic storytelling make this one-location thriller a minor epic, setting the stage for his future works and influencing a generation of filmmakers.

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

The first installment of Tarantino's epic revenge saga, Kill Bill: Volume 1, follows The Bride (Uma Thurman) as she seeks vengeance against her former allies. This blood-soaked tribute to martial arts films is a visual and auditory feast, with perfect casting and Uma Thurman delivering a tour-de-force performance. Her seamless transition from delivering Tarantino's witty dialogue to becoming a formidable action hero cements her as the heart of the film.

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 is not just a film; it's a cultural phenomenon that redefined cinema in the 1990s. Tarantino's non-linear storytelling, coupled with instantly quotable dialogue and a rock-and-roll energy, created a movie that continues to influence filmmakers and pop culture. From the iconic wallet to the five-dollar milkshake, Pulp Fiction is a testament to Tarantino's genius, setting a new standard for what films can achieve.

The 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 order in mind? Share your thoughts in the comments below or create your own Tarantino tier list using our interactive tool above.