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 his next—and possibly final—project will be. As we await news on his future endeavors, it's the perfect opportunity to embark on a Tarantino-athon. Below, we've ranked all ten of his feature-length films (excluding his segments in Sin City and Four Rooms).

It's worth noting that even Tarantino's least acclaimed films are often considered superior to many other directors' best works. Keep this in mind as you explore our rankings. And don't forget 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)

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

Death Proof may not be as fun as Planet Terror, but it stands as a smart homage to B-movies. It feels like a project crafted by a talented filmmaker and friends over weekends, though with major production backing and a rapid-fire script. The story of Stuntman Mike targeting talkative women with his death-proofed car is a brisk, engaging film. It revitalized Kurt Russell's career and includes nearly 40 minutes of dialogue before the action kicks in. While polarizing (especially outside of Cannes), it remains a unique, studio-free work. The climactic death chase, fueled by revenge, is a thrilling highlight.

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 is a brutal exploration of race relations and human nature, set against the backdrop of the Wild West. Combining western and mystery genres with dark humor, it's both a character study and a tribute to 70mm filmmaking. Set post-Civil War, the film delves into contemporary issues, making it Tarantino's most nuanced and mature work. While some elements may feel familiar to fans, the overall narrative and performances, particularly by Samuel L. Jackson and Jennifer Jason Leigh, are compelling.

8. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Image credit: The Weinstein CompanyStars: Brad Pitt, Eli Roth, Christoph Waltz | Release Date: May 20, 2009 | Review: IGN's Inglorious Basterds review

Inglourious Basterds is Tarantino's homage to The Dirty Dozen, featuring a character-heavy, man-on-a-mission plot. It's structured more like a series of theatrical plays than a cohesive film, with each segment filled with top-notch performances and suspenseful dialogue. Christoph Waltz's Oscar-winning portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is one of Tarantino's most memorable villains. Brad Pitt's layered performance as Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character. While the film's sprawling conversations sometimes overshadow the action, it remains a strong, if disjointed, work.

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 follows The Bride as she seeks revenge on the remaining members of her hit list. True to Tarantino's style, this volume focuses more on dialogue, pop culture references, and character development than action. Uma Thurman delivers a powerful performance, showcasing a wide emotional range. The film delves deeper into The Bride's backstory, providing context and motivation. The intense fight scene between The Bride and Elle Driver in Budd's trailer is a highlight, blending violence with humor and tension.

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 stumble after Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown has since been recognized as one of Tarantino's strongest, more restrained efforts. An adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, it showcases Tarantino's ability to handle dense plots without alienating the audience. Pam Grier's performance as the titular character, alongside Samuel L. Jackson and Robert Forster, is captivating. The film is a fun blend of character-driven storytelling and Tarantino's unique style, allowing actors like Robert De Niro and Michael Keaton to shine.

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 doesn't shy away from the horrors of slavery while delivering a crowd-pleasing spaghetti western. The film balances absurd comedy with brutal scenes, capturing the casual racism of the antebellum South. Jamie Foxx and Christoph Waltz deliver standout performances, with Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of a ruthless plantation owner adding depth to the narrative. Despite its dark themes, Django Unchained remains a fun and must-see film.

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 Tarantino's most recent film and a testament to his storytelling prowess. This alternate history project, set in 1969, follows an aging actor and his stunt double as they navigate the changing film industry and cross paths with the Manson Family. The film features magnificent performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt (who won an Oscar for his role), and Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate. It's a time capsule filled with nostalgia, humor, and intense moments, making it one of Tarantino's most emotionally resonant works.

3. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Image credit: Miramax FilmsStars: Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi | Release Date: January 21, 1992 | Review: IGN's Resevoir Dogs review

Reservoir Dogs is Tarantino's shortest and tightest film, blending pop culture references with essential plot development and character building. The film moves at a breakneck pace, with standout performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen. Harvey Keitel and Lawrence Tierney elevate the material, transforming a one-location story into a minor epic. Tarantino's directorial style redefined crime cinema and influenced countless filmmakers, cementing his place in cinematic history.

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 homage to revenge films, following The Bride on her quest for vengeance after being left for dead. Uma Thurman's portrayal of The Bride is iconic, delivering both memorable dialogue and action heroics. The film's casting is impeccable, with Lucy Liu and Daryl Hannah adding depth to their roles. It's a thrilling, action-packed epic that showcases Tarantino's ability to blend genres and styles.

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 is a landmark film that redefined storytelling and pop culture. Its non-linear narrative, iconic dialogue, and memorable characters have left an indelible mark on cinema. From the Bible-quoting hitman Jules to the leather-clad gimp, the film is filled with unforgettable moments. Tarantino's direction, combined with a rock and roll soundtrack, created a cinematic experience that influenced countless films and filmmakers. It's a testament to what movies can and should do, making it not just a great film, but a cultural phenomenon.

The best Quentin Tarantino movies

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 below or use our tier list tool to create your own ranking of Tarantino's films.