Top Quentin Tarantino Films Ranked

Quentin Tarantino's decision to cancel his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, has left fans eagerly anticipating what his next—and possibly final—project might be. In the meantime, there's no better opportunity to embark on a Tarantino-athon and revisit his iconic films. Below, we've ranked all ten of his feature-length directorial works, keeping in mind that even Tarantino's lesser films often outshine the best efforts of many other directors.

Here's our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino films. We encourage you to share your thoughts and create your own ranking in the comments section below!

Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino

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10. Death Proof (2007)

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

Death Proof may not be as thrilling as Planet Terror, but it stands out as a smart tribute to B-movies. The film feels like a weekend project by one of the most talented filmmakers, supported by a major production and a dynamic script. Stuntman Mike's story of targeting talkative women with his death-proofed car is a gripping narrative that revitalizes Kurt Russell's career. While polarizing, the film's raw, unfiltered style and its exhilarating final chase scene make it a must-watch in today's studio-dominated landscape.

9. The Hateful Eight (2015)

Stars: 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, delving into race relations and human nature. Tarantino's blend of western and mystery genres, along with his signature gallows humor, results in a compelling character study and a tribute to 70mm filmmaking. The film's post-Civil War setting allows for a nuanced exploration of contemporary issues, making it one of Tarantino's most mature works. While some elements may feel familiar, the overall impact of the story is undeniable.

8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Stars: 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 theatrical structure with multiple segments. The film boasts first-rate performances and Tarantino's signature dialogue-as-suspense. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is a standout, while Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to an initially one-dimensional role. However, the film's lengthy conversations and segmented nature can feel disjointed at times.

7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)

Stars: Uma Thurman, Daryl Hannah, David Carradine | Release Date: April 8, 2004 | Review: IGN's Kill Bill: Volume 2 review

Kill Bill: Volume 2 focuses on The Bride's quest for revenge, with a greater emphasis on dialogue and character development. Uma Thurman delivers a powerful performance, showcasing a wide range of emotions. The film delves deeper into The Bride's backstory, providing context and motivation for her actions. The climactic fight with Elle Driver is a highlight, blending violence with humor in true Tarantino fashion.

6. Jackie Brown (1997)

Stars: Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Forster | Release Date: December 8, 1997 | Review: IGN's Jackie Brown review

Jackie Brown was initially overshadowed by Pulp Fiction but has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's strongest and most restrained character-driven films. An adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, it features a dense yet engaging plot and showcases Tarantino's ability to work with established actors like Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, and Robert Forster.

5. Django Unchained (2012)

Stars: Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz | Release Date: December 11, 2012 | Review: IGN's Django Unchained review

Django Unchained is a bold and bloody tribute to spaghetti westerns that doesn't shy away from the horrors of slavery. The film balances humor and violence with a shocking portrayal of racism in the antebellum South. Despite its heavy themes, Django Unchained remains a highly entertaining and must-see cinematic experience.

4. Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood (2019)

Stars: 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 Tarantino's latest masterpiece, offering an alternate history of 1969 Hollywood. The film follows an aging actor and his stunt double as they navigate the changing industry and encounter the Manson Family. With standout performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, the film combines emotional depth with Tarantino's signature ultra-violence, making it a captivating and award-winning tale.

3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

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

Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and tightest film, blending pop culture with essential plot and character development. The film's fast pace and compelling performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Harvey Keitel elevate it beyond mere pulp fiction. Tarantino's innovative direction transforms a single-location story into a cinematic epic, influencing crime cinema and beyond.

2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)

Stars: Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, Daryl Hannah | Release Date: October 10, 2003 | Review: IGN's Kill Bill: Vol. 1 review

Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked homage to revenge films, with Uma Thurman delivering a standout performance as The Bride. The film's perfect casting and Thurman's cool delivery of Tarantino's dialogue make it a quotable favorite among film enthusiasts. As the action takes center stage, Thurman transforms into a formidable action hero.

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Stars: John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman | Release Date: May 21, 1994 | Review: IGN's Pulp Fiction review

Pulp Fiction is a cultural phenomenon that reshaped the film industry. Its non-linear narrative, instantly quotable dialogue, and eclectic characters have left an indelible mark on pop culture. Tarantino's second film not only changed how movies are made but also raised the bar for what films can achieve, solidifying his status as a visionary director.

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? Let us know in the comments or create your own Tarantino tier list using the tool above.