Tarantino Designates 'Inglourious Basterds' His Masterpiece, 'Kill Bill' the Film He Was Born to Make

Los Angeles – Acclaimed filmmaker Quentin Tarantino recently offered a rare glimpse into his personal assessment of his filmography, identifying three distinct categories for his most notable works. Speaking on "The Church of Tarantino" podcast, the two-time Oscar winner clarified which films he considers his "masterpiece," his "favorite," and the one he was "born to make."

Tarantino stated that while "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" holds the title of his personal favorite, "Inglourious Basterds" stands as his cinematic masterpiece. He further elaborated on "Kill Bill," describing it as the "ultimate Quentin movie."

"But I think ‘Kill Bill’ is the ultimate Quentin movie, like nobody else could have made it. Every aspect about it is so particularly ripped — like with tentacles and bloody tissue — from my imagination and my id and my loves and my passions and my obsession," Tarantino revealed. "So, I think ‘Kill Bill’ is the movie I was born to make."

His 2009 World War II film, Inglourious Basterds, is not only deemed his best film but also his "best script," according to the director. This film earned Christoph Waltz an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, further cementing its critical acclaim.

The 2019 film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt, resonated most deeply with Tarantino on a personal level, making it his favorite. Pitt also received an Oscar for his role in this film.

Beyond these three, Tarantino also touched upon his directing prowess, noting that The Hateful Eight showcases his "best directing of [his] material." He explained that with The Hateful Eight, the script was solid, allowing him to focus on servicing the material as a director.

In discussing his future, Tarantino confirmed that his long-rumored 10th and final film, "The Movie Critic," has been scrapped. He indicated it felt too similar to his previous work, particularly in recreating period Los Angeles. However, a sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, titled "The Adventures of Cliff Booth," is in the works, though David Fincher will direct it, as Tarantino found the idea of his final film being a sequel "unenthused" him.