Top Quentin Tarantino Films Ranked

Quentin Tarantino's decision to cancel his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, has left fans eager to see what the acclaimed director will bring to the screen next. While we await his final project, it's the perfect opportunity to revisit his impressive filmography. Here, we've ranked all ten of his feature-length films, noting that we're not including his contributions to Sin City and Four Rooms.

It's worth mentioning that even Tarantino's least celebrated films are often superior to many other directors' best work. So, as you explore this list, keep in mind that "worst" is a relative term when it comes to Tarantino's oeuvre.

Below, you'll find our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino films. Feel free to share your own rankings in the comments section at the bottom of the page!

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 entertaining as Planet Terror, but it stands as a smart tribute to B-movies. The film feels like a project crafted by a talented and confident filmmaker with friends over a series of weekends, yet backed by major production funding and a rapid-fire script. The narrative follows Stuntman Mike, who uses his death-proofed car to target beautiful, chatty women. This film revitalized Kurt Russell's career and features nearly 40 minutes of dialogue before the action kicks in. While polarizing, especially outside of Cannes, Death Proof remains a rare, studio-free work. Its climactic chase scene, fueled by revenge and sheer excitement, should win over even the most skeptical viewers.

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 is a blend of vicious humor and a gripping narrative that delves into race relations and human nature, set against the backdrop of the Wild West. This film merges the western and mystery genres with a touch of gallows humor, delivering an intense character study and a tribute to 70mm filmmaking. Set post-Civil War, it addresses contemporary issues through its characters, making it Tarantino's most nuanced and mature work. While some elements may echo Reservoir Dogs, the film's overall impact overshadows these similarities, making it a compelling watch.

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, presenting a character-driven, mission-oriented script. The film feels like four brief plays and a short film, showcasing Tarantino's theatrical flair since Reservoir Dogs. While filled with top-notch performances and suspenseful dialogue, the film's structure can feel disjointed, with long conversations leading to brief action sequences. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is unforgettable, and Brad Pitt's nuanced performance as Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to a potentially flat character. Despite its strengths, the film struggles to coalesce into a unified whole.

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 follows The Bride as she seeks revenge on the remaining members of her hit list. This installment focuses more on dialogue and character development, showcasing Tarantino's signature style. Uma Thurman delivers a powerful performance, exploring The Bride's backstory and motivations. The film's highlight is the intense confrontation between The Bride and Elle Driver in Budd's trailer, a scene that blends violence with emotional depth. Volume 2 is a testament to Tarantino's ability to weave complex narratives with humor and intensity.

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 seen as a stumble following Pulp Fiction, but it has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's strongest and most restrained works. Adapted from Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, the film explores a dense yet engaging plot involving a $500,000 cash heist. Pam Grier's portrayal of the titular character, alongside Samuel L. Jackson and Robert Forster, showcases Tarantino's skill in character-driven storytelling. The film's mature and nuanced approach to its narrative has earned it a well-deserved place in Tarantino's filmography.

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 brutal take on the spaghetti western genre, confronting the horrors of slavery head-on. The film balances absurd comedy with stark depictions of life in the antebellum South, delivering a crowd-pleasing yet thought-provoking experience. Christoph Waltz's performance as Dr. King Schultz and Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of Calvin Candie add depth to this gripping narrative. Django Unchained is a must-see for its blend of entertainment and social commentary.

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 narrative similar to Inglourious Basterds. The film follows an aging actor and his stunt double as they navigate the changing landscape of Hollywood in 1969, intersecting with the Manson Family. With stellar performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, the movie captures the era's essence while delivering a thrilling and emotionally resonant story. It's a testament to Tarantino's ability to blend nostalgia with intense storytelling.

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 yet tightest film, packed with essential plot developments and character-building moments. The film's rapid pace and innovative storytelling transformed crime cinema and influenced a generation of filmmakers. Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen deliver standout performances, while Harvey Keitel's presence elevates the material. Tarantino's creative direction turns a one-location story into a cinematic epic, making Reservoir Dogs an instant classic.

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 martial arts films, following The Bride's quest for revenge after her wedding party is massacred. Uma Thurman's portrayal of The Bride is iconic, delivering both action and dialogue with finesse. The film's casting is impeccable, and its action sequences are thrilling. Volume 1 sets the stage for an epic tale of vengeance and showcases Tarantino's mastery of genre filmmaking.

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 redefined cinema in the 1990s. Its non-linear storytelling, iconic dialogue, and eclectic soundtrack have left an indelible mark on pop culture. The film's blend of humor, violence, and philosophical musings, delivered by a stellar cast including John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson, cemented Tarantino's status as a visionary filmmaker. Pulp Fiction not only changed how movies were made but also raised the bar for what audiences expect from film.

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? Share your thoughts in the comments below or use our tier list tool to create your own ranking!