Since the 90s, Quentin Tarantino has become a living legend in the world of cinema. Over the years, he has cemented his own extremely recognizable cinematic style, leaving his mark on the industry. Considered one of the foremost fathers of superfluous gore in contemporary cinema, it seems as though Tarantino has the Midas touch; every movie he touches has turned to gold, earning all involved critical acclaim worldwide. Looking at Tarantino's filmography, it's easy to notice commonalities such as extremely graphic and colorful violence or the gallons of fake (hopefully) blood used, but some of his films stand above the rest, which then begs the question: which is the best Tarantino film?
It's a little difficult to decide on the poorer films on this list, because to some extent, Tarantino hasn't really had any major flops, and generally always releases high quality films. We need to examine the unforgettable classics that Tarantino has given us like 'Pulp Fiction' or 'Kill Bill Vol. 1', without ignoring his more contemporary work, such as 'Inglourious Basterds'. With his ninth film, 'The Hateful Eight', Tarantino returned to the stage in style, selling out theaters around the world.
It's clear that he is considered a great director, but for every diehard fan that Tarantino has, there is a frothing-at-the-mouth critic angrily bashing at the keyboard in outrage due to some gratuitous violence. Tarantino's films provoke polarizing passions, both hate and love, and just like his films, there isn't really a happy medium.
9 'Death Proof'
'Death Proof' is one of two parts of the 'Grindhouse' double feature, with the other part being 'Planet Terror' by Robert Rodriguez. This time, Tarantino's infamous penchant for violence and gore was the main attraction for this film, but unfortunately, it didn't quite fit narratively. It could be said that 'Death Proof' is Tarantino's weakest film to date, and although it is entertaining, nothing really stands out, and we could even say that the violence that is present is a tad gratuitous.
8 'Django Unchained'
Despite suffering under harsh criticism, the reality of the situation is that 'Django Unchained' isn't one of Tarantino's worst films, just simply not one of his best. Unlike 'The Hateful Eight', this time the story is set before the American Civil War, instead of afterwards. With a star studded cast including Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz and Leonardo DiCaprio. Some scenes in this film are brilliant, with masterful performances, but due to the lack of dynamism in some of the characters, it is difficult to be totally impressed. Still, this is the first Tarantino Western that has left a good taste in my mouth, and paved the way for 'The Hateful Eight'.
7 'The Hateful Eight'
Either the rebirth of Tarantino or his new era. 'The Hateful Eight' isn't too far removed from 'Reservoir Dogs' at first glance, but looking deeper we can see that these films are fairly distinct. 'The Hateful Eight' is a film that brings us back to Tarantino's roots, using a lot of striking imagery. The plot is a clear homage to the B-movie spaghetti westerns of the 60s. Tarantino's fingerprint can be seen all over this film, including scenes with blood everywhere and a lot of violence, but also with his usual cast including Samuel L. Jackson and the newcomer Jennifer Jason Leigh. The chemistry between the various characters allows the dynamism that was lacking in 'Django Unchained' to flourish. 'The Hateful Eight' marks the beginning of a new era for Tarantino.
6'Kill Bill: Vol. 2'
The Bride is back, and Quentin Tarantino showed the world the new facets of the Black Mamba in 'Kill Bill: Vol. 2'. Unlike its predecessor, Volume 2 is a lot quieter, reducing the amount of violent scenes and the gallons of blood by a factor of ten. The story focuses on the life and development of the Black Mamba and how to execute her plan for revenge. Contrasting both Volumes allows us to see that even in the case of sequels, Tarantino is able to leave us surprised with his directing and thematic exposure. Yes, 'Kill Bill' was made for both parts to be released together, but in separating the two Volumes, Tarantino created an excellent cinematic connection.
5 'Jackie Brown'
In 1997 Quentin Tarantino would bring his third consecutive success to the big screen, 'Jackie Brown'. This is the first film that Tarantino stressed the blaxploitation origin so explicitly. For Tarantino fans, this is probably the least recognizable film that Tarantino has made, as it forgoes the usual high octane carnage for a more leisurely storytelling pace. Aside from the final stretch, that is. The story focuses on the titular Jackie Brown, a flight attendant that carries guns over the border for gun runner Ordell, a wanted fugitive. Without a doubt, Pam Grier portrayed a different interpretation of flight attendants that we are normally accustomed to.
4 'Kill: Bill Vol. 1'
Who is the most famous Bride in the history of cinema? Black Mamba from Tarantino's 'Kill Bill: Vol. 1'. Doubtlessly, this film is a tribute and homage to Asian culture and cinema, but you can still clearly identify this film as a Tarantino film due to the vibrant colors, gratuitous use of blood, and a story of revenge. The Bride is one of the most iconic characters in any Tarantino film. The film had a global impact because of the violence and having a star cast including David Carradine, Lucy Liu, Vivica A. Fox, and Daryl Hannah.
3 'Inglourious Basterds'
Released in 2009, 'Inglourious Basterds' was immediately received as one of Tarantino's best feature films. The film is set in Nazi Germany, but from an unusual perspective. Mixing the style of war movies from the 60s and Tarantino's own unique style, 'Inglourious Basterds' is a masterpiece that is funny and violent in equal measures. A large part of the success of the film is due to the incredible performances from the cast, especially Christoph Waltz as the redoubtable Colonel Hans. The talented roster also includes Brad Pitt, Diane Kruger, Michael Fassbender and french Léa Seydoux. 'Inglourious Basterds' was nominated for eight Oscars in total, but only Waltz ended up winning one.
2 'Pulp Fiction'
The 90s were the rise and consolidation of Quentin Tarantino films, with a unique style and completely unapologetic about the controversy his bloody and violent style created Tarantino quickly became the centre of attention of the media. With 'Pulp Fiction', Tarantino carved his name into the annals of movie history. The combination of violence and black humor makes 'Pulp Fiction' an icon in cinema pop culture, and it's ramifications would be felt for years to come. In the end 'Pulp Fiction' was nominated for seven Oscars and won Best Original Screenplay. Clumsy hired killers, a mysterious briefcase, and caring for the wife of a crime boss are just some of the ingredients that compose this iconic film.
1 'Reservoir Dogs'
Not only was 'Reservoir Dogs' Tarantino's debut as a director, but also as a producer. Released in 1992, 'Reservoir Dogs' has all the ingredients to be Tarantino's greatest film: the director's own aesthetics and themes, the violence is justified, and the plot leaves you guessing at every turn. The story focuses on six professional criminals hired by Joe Cabot and Nice Guy Eddie, whom must work together to rob a jewelry store without knowing anyone else, hidden under the anonymity of colors as names. 'Reservoir Dogs' skyrocketed Tarantino into stardom, with him gaining the appreciation of critics and viewers alike.