The Ultimate Quentin Tarantino Movie Ranking: His Best Films, Ranked

Quentin Tarantino is one of the most influential filmmakers of all time. Known for his sharp dialogue, stylized violence, and deep appreciation of cinema history, he has crafted some of the most memorable films of the past three decades. But which of his movies stands out as the best? Let’s rank his finest works and see where they land!

10. Death Proof (2007)

While Death Proof has its moments—especially Kurt Russell’s menacing performance as Stuntman Mike—it’s often considered Tarantino’s weakest film. Made as part of the Grindhouse double feature with Robert Rodriguez’s Planet Terror, this slasher-car chase hybrid is a love letter to exploitation cinema but doesn’t quite reach the heights of his other works.

9. The Hateful Eight (2015)

A slow-burning, Western-inspired mystery, The Hateful Eight is packed with tension, brutal violence, and powerhouse performances. While it’s beautifully shot and full of Tarantino’s signature dialogue, its lengthy runtime and claustrophobic setting make it a more divisive entry in his filmography.

8. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004)

While Kill Bill: Volume 2 slows things down compared to its action-packed predecessor, it delivers a more emotional and character-driven conclusion to The Bride’s revenge saga. The final confrontation with Bill is more about words than swords, making it a satisfying but different experience from Volume 1.

7. Jackie Brown (1997)

Often overshadowed by Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown is one of Tarantino’s most mature and restrained films. Adapted from Elmore Leonard’s novel Rum Punch, it showcases an outstanding performance by Pam Grier and a smooth, stylish crime story that rewards patient viewers.

6. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)

A love letter to 1960s Hollywood, this film follows fading actor Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) as they navigate the changing film industry. Featuring stunning performances and an explosive third act, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood blends nostalgia with Tarantino’s signature unpredictability.

5. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)

A masterpiece of action filmmaking, Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a breathtaking blend of martial arts, samurai films, and grindhouse cinema. Uma Thurman’s performance as The Bride is legendary, and the Crazy 88 fight scene remains one of Tarantino’s most visually striking sequences.

4. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Tarantino rewrites history in this bold, violent, and darkly comedic World War II epic. With an unforgettable villain in Hans Landa (Christoph Waltz) and standout moments like the opening farmhouse interrogation and the explosive finale, Inglourious Basterds is a near-perfect blend of suspense and spectacle.

3. Django Unchained (2012)

This revisionist Western is one of Tarantino’s most commercially successful films, featuring stellar performances from Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, and Leonardo DiCaprio. It’s a brutal yet thrilling story of revenge, set against the backdrop of America’s darkest past, with unforgettable shootouts and dialogue.

2. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Tarantino’s debut film remains a raw, intense, and razor-sharp heist thriller. With a non-linear narrative, a tight cast of characters, and the infamous ear-cutting scene, Reservoir Dogs established him as a filmmaker to watch and still holds up as a masterclass in tension and dialogue.

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)

It’s hard to argue against Pulp Fiction as Tarantino’s magnum opus. This nonlinear, genre-defining film changed the landscape of independent cinema with its snappy dialogue, iconic characters, and endlessly quotable moments. From the adrenaline-pumping needle scene to the dance contest at Jack Rabbit Slim’s, Pulp Fiction is a cultural phenomenon that remains just as fresh today as it was in 1994.

Final Thoughts

Tarantino has built a legacy of bold storytelling, unforgettable characters, and masterful filmmaking. While every fan has their own ranking, there’s no denying that his movies continue to captivate audiences and influence filmmakers worldwide.

Which Tarantino movie is your favorite? Let’s discuss in the comments!