Top Quentin Tarantino Films Ranked

Following a change of heart, Quentin Tarantino has canceled his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, leaving fans curious about what the director's next (and possibly final) project might be. As we eagerly await news of his future endeavors, what better time than now to indulge in a Tarantino-athon? We've meticulously ranked each of the 10 feature-length films directed by this iconic filmmaker. Note that we're focusing solely on feature films, so segments from Sin City and Four Rooms won't be included.

It's important to clarify that we don't believe Tarantino has ever produced a truly bad film; rather, some of his works simply don't reach the heights of his masterpieces. Keep this in mind as you peruse our rankings. Even Tarantino's lesser efforts often outshine many other filmmakers' best work.

Below, you'll find our curated list of the best Quentin Tarantino films, ranked. We invite you to share your own rankings in the comments section at the end of the page.

Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino

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10. 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 entertaining as Planet Terror, it stands out as a brilliant homage to B-movies. The film feels like a weekend project crafted by one of the most talented and audacious filmmakers, albeit backed by major production resources and a razor-sharp script. The tale of Stuntman Mike using his "death-proofed" car to target beautiful, chatty women not only revitalizes Kurt Russell's career but also requires patience with its nearly 40 minutes of dialogue before the action kicks in. Death Proof is polarizing and not on par with Pulp Fiction, yet it's a unique work devoid of studio interference, making it a must-watch in today's cinematic landscape. The film's climactic revenge-fueled chase is a thrilling payoff for those who appreciate smart, fast-talking characters.

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 blends vicious humor with an intense narrative, offering a brutal exploration of race relations and human nature set against the backdrop of the Wild West. This film masterfully combines the western and mystery genres, injecting a dose of gallows humor for good measure. It's an intricate character study and a tribute to the grandeur of 70mm filmmaking. Tarantino uses the post-Civil War setting to delve into contemporary issues, making this arguably his most nuanced and mature story yet. While there are familiar elements for Tarantino enthusiasts, the film's overall narrative strength overshadows these minor echoes of his past work.

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 structured more like a series of theatrical plays than a single film. Each segment is filled with top-tier performances and dialogue that builds suspense, a hallmark of Tarantino's style. However, the film's extended conversations can sometimes overshadow the brief bursts of action. Christoph Waltz's Oscar-winning portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is one of Tarantino's most compelling villains—charming, brutal, and cowardly. Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine starts as a one-dimensional character but is elevated by Pitt's terrifying yet humorous performance. While the film is composed of excellently crafted segments, they don't always coalesce into a unified whole.

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 vengeance against the remaining members of her hit list: Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah), Budd (Michael Madsen), and Bill (David Carradine). Tarantino promised a return to his signature style of slick dialogue and pop culture references, and Volume 2 delivers with even more conversation than its predecessor. The film deepens 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 standout moment. Thurman's performance is a tour de force, showcasing 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 seen as a step down from 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, it marks Tarantino's only adaptation to date. The film follows Jackie Brown (Pam Grier) as she navigates a complex plot involving Samuel L. Jackson's gun runner, Ordell, Robert Forster's bail bondsman, and Michael Keaton's ATF agent. The dense yet accessible plot is a delight, showcasing Tarantino's skill in letting actors like De Niro and Keaton thrive in his 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 confronts the horrors of slavery head-on while delivering a wildly entertaining spaghetti western homage. The film strikes a delicate balance between absurd comedy and the brutal realities of life for slaves in the antebellum South. Despite its shocking depictions of racism, Django Unchained remains a must-see for its thrilling action and humor.

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 finest works but also his second major alternate history project after Inglourious Basterds. The film follows an aging actor (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his loyal stunt double (Brad Pitt, who won an Oscar for his performance) as they navigate the changing Hollywood landscape and cross paths with the Manson Family. The film is a captivating time capsule, featuring stellar performances, memorable 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 Reservoir Dogs review

Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and tightest film, blending pop-cultural references with essential plot developments and character building at a breakneck pace. The performances by Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen are standout, while Harvey Keitel and Lawrence Tierney elevate the film to a new level. Tarantino's inventive direction transforms a single-location story into a gripping epic, revolutionizing crime cinema and influencing an entire 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

Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked tribute to revenge cinema, following The Bride (Uma Thurman) on her quest for vengeance after her wedding party is massacred. The film boasts perfect casting, with Thurman delivering unforgettable lines and excelling as an action hero. Her journey around the globe in pursuit of her targets is both thrilling and iconic.

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 faced off against Forrest Gump for the Best Picture Oscar in 1995, with Gump ultimately taking the prize. However, Pulp Fiction's impact on pop culture is undeniable. This non-linear epic is a rock and roll cinematic experience, filled with instantly quotable dialogue and unforgettable characters. From the Bible-quoting hitman to the leather-clad gimps and five-dollar milkshakes, Tarantino's sophomore effort changed the way movies were made and set new expectations for what film could achieve.

The best Quentin Tarantino movies

That concludes our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino films. Do you agree with our list, or do you have a different order in mind? Share your thoughts in the comments below or use our tier list tool to create your own ranking.