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 likely final—movie will be. In the meantime, it's the perfect opportunity for a Tarantino-athon, so we've ranked all ten of his feature-length films below. Please note that we're focusing solely on his full-length directorial efforts, excluding his contributions to Sin City and Four Rooms.

While Tarantino has yet to make a truly bad film, some entries shine less brightly than others. Even his least acclaimed works often surpass the best of many other filmmakers. Here's our ranking of Quentin Tarantino's films, from least to most favorite. Don't forget to share your thoughts and create your own ranking in the comments section!

Ranking the Movies of Quentin Tarantino

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10. Death Proof (2007)

Death Proof might not match the sheer fun of Planet Terror, but it stands as an intelligent homage to B-movies. The film feels like a weekend project by one of the most talented and audacious filmmakers, albeit with major studio backing and a razor-sharp script. It tells the story of Stuntman Mike, who uses his death-proofed car to target beautiful, chatty women. The film revitalizes Kurt Russell's career and builds up to almost 40 minutes of dialogue before unleashing its blood-soaked thrills. While polarizing, Death Proof is a unique, studio-unfiltered experience. If the fast-talking, smart women don't win you over, the climactic revenge-fueled car chase will.

9. The Hateful Eight (2015)

The Hateful Eight blends vicious humor with an intense narrative, offering a brutal examination of race relations and human nature in a Wild West setting. By merging western and mystery genres with dark humor, the film serves as both a deep character study and a tribute to 70mm filmmaking. Set post-Civil War, it explores contemporary issues, making it arguably Tarantino's most mature work. While some elements may feel familiar to fans, echoing Reservoir Dogs, the film's overall impact remains powerful and compelling.

8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, structured more like a series of theatrical plays than a single film. Each segment boasts top-notch performances and Tarantino's signature dialogue-driven suspense. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is unforgettable—charming, brutal, and cowardly. Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to what could have been a one-dimensional role. Though the film is filled with long, sprawling conversations punctuated by brief action, it remains a collection of well-crafted pieces that don't fully coalesce.

7. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)

Kill Bill: Volume 2 continues The Bride's (Uma Thurman) quest for revenge against her former allies, including Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah), Budd (Michael Madsen), and Bill (David Carradine). True to Tarantino's promise, this volume shifts focus to dialogue, pop culture references, and character depth, with less action. It may be his most dialogue-heavy film yet. The Bride's backstory adds depth to her motivations, culminating in a spectacularly violent confrontation with Elle. Thurman's performance is a standout, showcasing a wide range of emotions.

6. Jackie Brown (1997)

Jackie Brown initially received positive reviews but was seen as a stumble following Pulp Fiction. As Tarantino's sole adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, it took him out of his usual creative zone. However, over time, it has been recognized as one of his most restrained and character-driven efforts. The plot revolves around a $500,000 heist and features standout performances from Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, and Robert Forster. The film showcases Tarantino's ability to blend dense plotting with character development.

5. Django Unchained (2012)

Django Unchained boldly confronts the horrors of slavery while delivering a thrilling, violent tribute to spaghetti westerns. The film balances absurd humor with brutal depictions of antebellum South life, making it both a crowd-pleaser and a poignant commentary on racism. Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Christoph Waltz deliver compelling performances in this must-see film.

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

Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood stands as one of Tarantino's finest works and his second major alternate history project after Inglourious Basterds. It blends crowd-pleasing elements with deep emotional storytelling, set against the backdrop of 1969 Los Angeles. The film follows an aging actor (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt double (Brad Pitt) as they navigate the changing film industry and intersect with the Manson Family. The performances, especially from DiCaprio and Oscar-winner Brad Pitt, along with Margot Robbie's portrayal of Sharon Tate, create a captivating time capsule.

3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Reservoir Dogs, Tarantino's shortest and tightest film, is packed with essential plot and character development. The film moves at a breakneck pace, featuring standout performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen, with Harvey Keitel elevating the material to poetic heights. Tarantino's innovative directing transforms a single-location story into a cinematic epic, revolutionizing crime cinema and inspiring a generation of filmmakers.

2. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)

Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a blood-soaked epic following The Bride (Uma Thurman) on her quest for revenge after being left for dead by Bill (David Carradine) and her former team. The film showcases perfect casting, with Thurman delivering iconic lines and excelling as an action hero. Volume 1 is a thrilling, action-packed homage to martial arts and revenge films.

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Pulp Fiction remains Tarantino's most influential work, a non-linear epic that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. With its rock 'n' roll energy, instantly quotable dialogue, and eclectic mix of characters and situations, the film redefined cinematic storytelling. From Bible-quoting hitmen to five-dollar milkshakes, Pulp Fiction established Tarantino as a visionary director and set the stage for countless imitators. Its impact on film is undeniable, changing how stories are told and what audiences expect from movies.

And that's our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino movies. Do you agree with our list, or would you rank them differently? Let us know in the comments or use our tier list tool above to create your own ranking.