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 potentially final, cinematic masterpiece might be. In the meantime, it's the perfect opportunity to embark on a Tarantino-athon. Below, we've ranked all ten of the director's feature-length films, excluding his segments in Sin City and Four Rooms. Remember, even Tarantino's least celebrated works often surpass the best efforts of many other filmmakers.

Here's our ranking of Quentin Tarantino's films, from least to most favored. Feel free to share your own rankings in the comments section below!

Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino

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10. Death Proof (2007)

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

Death Proof might not be as thrilling as Planet Terror, but it stands out as a smart homage to B-movies. The film feels like a weekend project by one of the most talented and audacious filmmakers, yet it's backed by major production support and a sharp script. The story of Stuntman Mike terrorizing women with his death-proofed car is a rapid-fire thrill, revitalizing Kurt Russell's career. Despite its polarizing nature and lengthy dialogue, the climactic chase scene fueled by revenge is a must-see, especially in today's studio-dominated landscape.

9. The Hateful Eight (2015)

Image credit: The Weinstein Company
Stars: Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason Leigh
Release Date: December 7, 2015
Review: IGN's The Hateful Eight review

With its dark humor and intense narrative, The Hateful Eight delves deeply into race relations and human nature, set against the backdrop of the Wild West. The film masterfully blends western and mystery genres, offering a character study enriched with 70mm filmmaking. While it touches on familiar Tarantino themes, the film's exploration of contemporary issues through a post-Civil War setting sets it apart as one of his most mature works.

8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Image credit: The Weinstein Company
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, structured more like a series of theatrical plays than a single film. Each segment is packed with top-notch performances and suspenseful dialogue, though the film's lengthy conversations sometimes overshadow its brief bursts of action. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is unforgettable, while Brad Pitt adds depth to the initially one-dimensional Lt. Aldo Raine. Despite its disjointed feel, the film remains a compelling showcase of Tarantino's writing prowess.

7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)

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

Kill Bill: Volume 2 shifts focus to the more dialogue-driven aspects of Tarantino's style, with less action than its predecessor. The film follows The Bride (Uma Thurman) as she seeks vengeance against the remaining members of her hit list. This volume delves into The Bride's backstory, enhancing the narrative with emotional depth and a memorable fight scene against Elle Driver. Uma Thurman's performance is a highlight, showcasing her versatility and strength.

6. Jackie Brown (1997)

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

Initially seen as a stumble following Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's most restrained and character-driven films. Based on Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, the film follows Pam Grier's titular character as she navigates a complex plot involving a gun runner, a bail bondsman, and an ATF agent. The dense yet engaging plot, combined with strong performances, makes it a standout in Tarantino's oeuvre.

5. Django Unchained (2012)

Image credit: The Weinstein Company
Stars: Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Review: IGN's Django Unchained review

Django Unchained is a bold blend of spaghetti western homage and a stark portrayal of slavery's horrors. The film balances absurd comedy with brutal scenes, delivering a crowd-pleasing experience. Christoph Waltz's performance adds depth, while the film's tone shifts effectively between humor and serious commentary on racism. It's a must-see for its entertainment value and historical context.

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

Image credit: Sony Pictures
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 a captivating alternate history that intertwines the lives of an aging actor and his stunt double with the Manson Family. The film's emotional depth, combined with Tarantino's signature ultra-violence, makes it a standout. Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt deliver award-winning performances, while Margot Robbie's portrayal of Sharon Tate adds a poignant layer to this time capsule of 1969 Hollywood.

3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Image credit: Miramax Films
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, packed with essential plot and character development amidst its pop-cultural digressions. The film's fast pace and memorable performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen, along with Harvey Keitel's seasoned acting, elevate it beyond typical crime cinema. Tarantino's innovative direction transformed the industry, setting a new standard for storytelling.

2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)

Image credit: Miramax Films
Stars: Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, Daryl Hannah
Release Date: October 10, 2003
Review: IGN's Kill Bill: Volume 1 review

Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked homage to revenge films, following The Bride (Uma Thurman) on her quest for vengeance after a brutal betrayal. The film's action sequences and perfect casting, especially Thurman's iconic performance, make it a thrilling watch. Her delivery of Tarantino's dialogue and her transformation into an action hero are highlights of this cinematic epic.

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)

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

Pulp Fiction revolutionized cinema with its non-linear storytelling and instantly quotable dialogue. The film's impact on pop culture is undeniable, from its eclectic soundtrack to its iconic characters. John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson's performances, along with Tarantino's direction, set a new standard for what films could achieve. It's not just a movie; it's a cultural phenomenon that changed the way stories are told on screen.

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 or create your own Tarantino tier list using our interactive tool above.