Anybody who has committed their cinematic senses to the unflinching chaos of Tarantino’s visual world, probably has their own constellation of rankings when it comes to the brief but airtight roundup of his 10 films thus far. That being said, there’s no better way to ring in the legendary director’s birthday — 62 today! — than by opening a debate on his very unique brand of cinema. So here goes, Tarantino’s entire directing career, ranked as per IMDb.
Pulp Fiction
Pulp Fiction (1994), an era-defining film in its own right — and one of the great Hollywood classics — has crime, SO much of it, tied in with themes of the pecking order, unravelling yet intersecting lives and mile-a-minute iconic scenes and exchanges. Pulp Fiction is one of those films that will leave you literally instantly cooler, each time you hit play.
Reservoir Dogs
Reservoir Dogs (1992) follows a team of criminals who come together to carry out a diamond heist. The Tarantino twist is that there’s a mole in the gang. The plan unfolds as the distrust and suspicion doubles, all in all making a very thrilling edge-of-the-seat watch.
Inglorious Basterds
One thing you will feel in your gut, start to end with Inglorious Basterds (2009), is fear. The adrenaline pumping through your body but, will make sure you get through the film because you NEED to get your psyche across the bridge to some sweet cinematic resolution. We honestly cannot think of a better historical premise that weaves itself in so well with the Tarantino style of cinema, than the fall of the Third Reich.
Jackie Brown
Jackie Brown (1994) does not follow the pace of a typical Tarantino directorial. But the plot and maneuver of course, reeks of the birthday boss’ trademark vision. The film follows flight attendant Jackie Brown who is caught smuggling money for her arms dealer boss. She must now maneuver her way out of this mess, stuck between the threat of prison or worse, death.
Django Unchained
Pre-Civil War era — hat happens when a slave and an eccentric bounty hunter, join forces to hunt down South’s most-wanted criminals? The less said the better about Django Unchained (2012), but it’s really unlikely the rugged magic of this film would’ve worn off anyone who ever hit play.
Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood
Just like every other Tarantino movie, this one’s a wild, WILD ride, start to finish. But having Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie in the same frame is the bonus trump card every movie lover deserves. Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood (2019), is incidentally the last film Tarantino has directed thus far.
Kill Bill: Vol. 1
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003) is one of those films that every one must watch, at least once, even if blood, gore and minutely planned attack choreographies aren’t your jam, you need to see a vengeful Uma Thurman, fueled by just range and impeccable muscle memory, serve herself justice. Hell truly hath no fury like a woman scorned.
Kill Bill: Vol. 2
Uma returns as ‘The Bride’ the very next year with Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004), picking up right where she left things. The revenge continues as does the gritty violence. And let’s be honest, if you sat through Vol. 1, you’re definitely a fan by the time you rolled onto Vol. 2.
The Hateful Eight
Bounty hunters and Civil War being more recurring themes here from his previous filmography (here’s looking at you Django Unchained), The Hateful Eight (2015) is set in the post-Civil War era and actually carries a showdown between not one, but two bounty hunters…and then the plot thickens AND HOW.
Grindhouse Presents: Death Proof
Death Proof (2007) is essentially a Stuntman working overtime to…perfect his craft? The film follows Mike, a professional body double who tweaks his rides to deliver the deadliest impact on unsuspecting women he takes along, while he himself walks away, spotless. But every man must meet his match, as does Mike. If you haven’t watched Death Proof, it may just surprise you.
Which Tarantino classic will you be watching to celebrate the maestro’s birthday?
