The Best Quentin Tarantino Movies, Ranked

Quentin Tarantino's decision to cancel his eleventh film, The Movie Critic, has left fans eagerly anticipating what his next—and possibly final—project might be. In the meantime, 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. While Tarantino hasn't made a truly bad film, some are not as stellar as his best. Here's our ranking of his cinematic masterpieces, from the least to the most impactful.

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 fun as Planet Terror, but it stands out as a smart homage to B-movies. The film feels like a weekend project by a talented filmmaker, yet it's backed by a major production. Stuntman Mike's story of targeting talkative women with his death-proofed car is a thrilling ride that revitalizes Kurt Russell's career. While polarizing, the film's unique, unfiltered style makes it a must-watch in today's studio-dominated landscape.

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 combines vicious humor with an intense narrative, offering a brutal look at race relations and human nature in the Wild West. This film blends western and mystery genres with a touch of gallows humor, making it a compelling character study and a tribute to 70mm filmmaking. While some elements may feel familiar to Tarantino enthusiasts, the film's exploration of contemporary issues through a post-Civil War setting is both nuanced and engaging.

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, featuring a character-heavy, mission-driven plot. The film is theatrical, with each section filled with top-notch performances and suspenseful dialogue. Christoph Waltz's portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa is unforgettable, while Brad Pitt's Lt. Aldo Raine adds depth to an otherwise one-dimensional role. Though the film's segments don't always coalesce into a single narrative, the individual pieces are masterfully crafted.

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 volume shifts focus to Tarantino's signature dialogue and character development, with less action. Uma Thurman delivers a powerful performance, showcasing a wide range of emotions. The film delves into The Bride's backstory, providing context and depth, culminating in a memorable confrontation with Elle Driver.

6. Jackie Brown (1997)

Stars: 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 and most restrained works. An adaptation of Elmore Leonard's Rum Punch, the film features a dense yet engaging plot centered around Pam Grier's character and her interactions with Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Forster, and Michael Keaton. The film's character-driven narrative and Tarantino's unique style make it a standout.

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, violent homage to spaghetti westerns that doesn't shy away from the horrors of slavery. The film balances absurd comedy with brutal realism, delivering a crowd-pleasing experience. Christoph Waltz's performance as Dr. King Schultz and Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of Calvin Candie are highlights, making Django Unchained 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 that resonates emotionally. The film follows an aging actor and his stunt double as they navigate the changing Hollywood landscape in 1969, intersecting with the Manson Family. With stellar performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, the movie is a nostalgic time capsule filled with intense moments and memorable music.

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 and tightest film, blending essential plot development with pop-cultural references. The film's fast pace and star-making performances from Tim Roth, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Madsen, along with Harvey Keitel's elevating presence, make it a seminal work. Tarantino's creative direction transforms a single-location story into a minor epic, influencing crime cinema and beyond.

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 revenge films, following The Bride's quest for vengeance after her wedding party is massacred. Uma Thurman's portrayal of The Bride is iconic, delivering both memorable dialogue and action-packed sequences. The film's perfect casting and intense action make it a standout in Tarantino's oeuvre.

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 changed the landscape of cinema. Its non-linear narrative, iconic dialogue, and eclectic characters have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From John Travolta's dance scene to Samuel L. Jackson's Bible-quoting hitman, the film is a testament to Tarantino's innovative storytelling and direction. It not only set a new standard for filmmaking but also inspired countless imitators.

And that's our ranking of the best Quentin Tarantino movies. Do you agree with our list, or would you rank them differently? Share your thoughts in the comments below or create your own Tarantino tier list using our handy tool.