Quentin Tarantino Shares His List of the Best 20 Films of the 21st Century

Quentin Tarantino has shared his personal list of the top 20 films of the 21st century, placing Ridley Scotts Black Hawk Down at number one. The lineup also features Pixars Toy Story 3 in second place, along with Lost in Translation by Sofia Coppola, Christopher Nolans Dunkirk, Paul Thomas Andersons There Will Be Blood, Edgar Wrights Shaun of the Dead, Woody Allens Midnight in Paris, Richard Linklaters School of Rock, and Steven Spielbergs West Side Story.

Tarantino revealed his selections in two segments on The Bret Easton Ellis podcast, with World of Reel providing a transcription of his commentary on each movie.

Black Hawk Down (Sony Pictures)

Tarantino described the film as a masterwork, praising its intense visual style and sustained tension throughout its 2-hour 45-minute runtime. He highlighted the final moments as particularly emotional and commended the direction as extraordinary.

Toy Story 3

He called it the greatest conclusion to a trilogy, comparing it to The Good, the Bad and the Ugly in terms of achieving a perfect ending for an animated series.

Lost in Translation (Sofia Coppola)

Tarantino admitted falling in love with the film and its director, praising its charm and describing it as a well-crafted, girlish movie that had a lasting impact on him.

There Will Be Blood (Paul Thomas Anderson)

He lauded Daniel Day-Lewiss performance and the films old-Hollywood craftsmanship, while noting a flaw in the casting of Paul Dano. Despite this, he considered it close to a top-ranking masterpiece.

Zodiac (David Fincher)

Tarantino initially wasnt captivated by the film but came to appreciate it as he rewatched it over the years, describing it as a mesmerizing masterwork.

Unstoppable (Tony Scott)

He praised it as one of the purest examples of Scotts action style, calling the train in the movie a memorable cinematic monster and highlighting the chemistry between Chris Pine and Denzel Washington.

Mad Max: Fury Road (George Miller)

Although hesitant to watch it at first, Tarantino was impressed by the films scale and Millers vision, describing it as an example of a truly great filmmaker fully realizing his project.

Shaun of the Dead (Edgar Wright)

He admired Wrights debut for its faithful homage to the Romero universe and its quotable script, noting it was a real zombie movie rather than a parody.

School of Rock (Richard Linklater)

Tarantino acknowledged Owen Wilsons performance, initially critical but later more appreciative, and praised the films humor and energy.

Battle Royale (Kinji Fukasaku)

He commented on the striking similarity to a later American adaptation, praising its bold handling of the storyline and script.

Jackass: The Movie

Tarantino described it as the film that made him laugh the most in the past two decades, citing its outrageous humor and memorable theatrical experience.

Other Highlights

He also commented on films that impressed him for their star performances, inventive direction, or unique approach to genre, including standout works by Mel Gibson, Eli Roth, and Steven Spielberg.

The full list reflects Tarantinos personal taste and his appreciation for bold storytelling, craftsmanship, and emotional impact in modern cinema.

Author: Sophia Brooks