Full Breakdown
Quentin Tarantino Names Top Films of the 21st Century
12/3/2025, 11:09:44 AM
Tarantino's Top Pick: _Black Hawk Down_
Quentin Tarantino has declared Ridley Scott’s _Black Hawk Down_ as the best film of the 21st century during an appearance on _The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast_. Tarantino praised the film's direction, stating, “the feat of direction is beyond extraordinary.” He elaborated on his evolving appreciation for the film, noting that while he initially found it overwhelming, subsequent viewings revealed its mastery and emotional intensity. Tarantino described the film as achieving an “Apocalypse Now” sense of purpose and visual effect, maintaining a gripping intensity throughout its runtime.
Complete List of Tarantino's Top 10 Films
Tarantino's top ten list features a mix of acclaimed films, showcasing a variety of genres and styles. The complete list is as follows:
1. _Black Hawk Down_ (Ridley Scott)
2. _Toy Story 3_ (Lee Unkrich)
3. _Lost in Translation_ (Sofia Coppola)
4. _Dunkirk_ (Christopher Nolan)
5. _There Will Be Blood_ (Paul Thomas Anderson)
6. _Zodiac_ (David Fincher)
7. _Unstoppable_ (Tony Scott)
8. _Mad Max: Fury Road_ (George Miller)
9. _Shaun of the Dead_ (Edgar Wright)
10. _Midnight in Paris_ (Woody Allen)
In discussing _Toy Story 3_, Tarantino called it “almost a perfect movie,” particularly highlighting the emotional impact of its final moments. He also expressed a surprising change of heart regarding _Dunkirk_, which he initially disliked but later came to appreciate for its mastery.
Insights on His Selections
Tarantino’s selections reflect his personal tastes, often leaning towards films that exhibit strong directorial visions and emotional resonance. He noted that his list was curated without external influence, stating, “I didn’t look up anything, I just picked 20 movies straight from my brain.” This approach emphasizes his focus on memorable cinematic experiences rather than adhering to mainstream consensus.
Criticism of _Battle Royale_ and _The Hunger Games_
In a notable commentary, Tarantino criticized the similarities between his #11 pick, _Battle Royale_, and _The Hunger Games_ franchise, suggesting that the latter borrowed heavily from the former without proper acknowledgment. He expressed frustration that critics failed to recognize this connection, stating, “Stupid book critics are not going to go watch a Japanese movie called ‘Battle Royale.’”
Official Statements & Responses
Tarantino's commentary on his list has sparked discussions among film critics and enthusiasts. His candid remarks about various films, including his critiques of performances in _There Will Be Blood_, have drawn both admiration and skepticism. Critics have noted that while his list diverges from mainstream selections, it reflects a unique and personal perspective on cinema.
What's Next for Tarantino
As Tarantino continues to engage with the film community, he is currently collaborating with David Fincher on a Netflix sequel to _Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood_. Additionally, he has plans for a re-release of _Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair_ and is contemplating a prequel to the _Kill Bill_ series.
Tarantino's list not only highlights his favorite films but also serves as a reflection of his evolving tastes and the impact of cinema on his life.
