Quentin Tarantino In ‘No Hurry’ to Make His Final Film

As a passionate cinephile, I’ve long admired Quentin Tarantino‘s work, and for years, he’s shared his intention to retire after directing ten feature films. With “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” being his ninth, whatever project he decides to tackle next – if he stays true to his word (though we all know words can be flexible) – will likely serve as his swan song in the realm of filmmaking.

In 2019, the movie OUATIH was released in cinemas. Since then, six years have passed, and Quentin Tarantino has no immediate plans for his final project that he had mentioned. He’s penned some books during this time, but the tenth film remains absent. As per Tarantino, it won’t be appearing on screens anytime soon.

At the Sundance gathering, as reported by Deadline, Quentin Tarantino expressed that he’s currently not eager to begin filming right away because he’s already been doing so for three decades. He desires to wait until his son turns six before starting work on his next project, which means it likely won’t be in production for at least another year or two, if not longer. Tarantino’s son was born in February 2020.

A year ago, there were whispers about a movie titled “The Movie Critic” that director Quentin Tarantino was planning. Although it wasn’t officially confirmed, the film was said to focus on the life of a staff critic for a sleazy L.A. magazine during the 1970s. There were rumors suggesting Brad Pitt might revisit his character, Cliff Booth, the stuntman, from “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”.

The movie review show The Movie Critic was discontinued in April 2024, with rumors in the industry suggesting that director Quentin Tarantino is rethinking his plans for his last film, as he’s allegedly “going back to the drafting table to decide on the final version of the movie.” Tarantino has a history of changing his mind about making films (The Hateful Eight was postponed after its script leaked), so there’s always a possibility he might change his decision again. However, based on his comments at Sundance, it seems unlikely that we’ll see the new film anytime soon.

Every Tarantino Movie Ranked From Worst to Best

10. Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004)

Quentin Tarantino skillfully crafts tension through prolonged dialogues and scenes, reaching a point where it feels like it might burst from the screen. At its best, this method results in intense and satisfying experiences. However, there are instances when it doesn’t quite hit the mark, such as parts of “Kill Bill: Vol 2”. Despite Uma Thurman’s exceptional portrayal of The Bride, keeping her adversary off-screen for the entire first movie was a brilliant move on Tarantino’s part. In “Vol. 2”, David Carradine takes over as the chatty Bill, and the tension that had been building throughout the previous film seems to vanish. He simply fails to meet the high expectations set by the hype. While there are standout moments, like the remarkable hand-to-hand sword fight between Thurman and Daryl Hannah, neither Carradine nor the rest of the film live up to their potential in the end.

9. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

The explosive, violent ending of “Inglourious Basterds” might be considered Tarantino’s most ingenious homage to cinema’s influence. In this film, movie-making and rebellion in World War II Germany become indistinguishable. However, while all Tarantino films are characterized by extravagance, “Inglourious Basterds” seems slightly over-the-top. With its five chapters, it almost feels like five separate movies. The plots, such as Shoshanna’s (Melanie Laurent) poignant pursuit of justice, contrast awkwardly with the more sensational and caricatured scenes involving the band of Jewish-American soldiers in the title, who delight in brutally executing Nazis using baseball bats to their brains. At a certain point, Tarantino’s indulgences appear less for the audience’s enjoyment than his own.

8. Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)

As a dedicated cinephile, I’ve always held the opinion that the optimal version of “Kill Bill” would be a 150-minute edit, seamlessly blending both volumes into one epic tale. However, it’s undeniable that the majority of the series’ finest moments can be found in “Vol. 1”.

One such instance is the prolonged, visually stunning chaos of the House of Blue Leaves sequence. Quentin Tarantino’s affinity for extended takes and elaborate camera work truly shines here, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the intricate fight choreography masterminded by series martial-arts advisor, Yuen Woo-ping.

7. Django Unchained (2012)

Christoph Waltz delivers a more compelling performance as Django’s mentor and benefactor, Dr. King Schultz, in “Django Unchained” compared to his role in “Inglourious Basterds.

6. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

In Tarantino’s first movie, the initial scene features a lively exchange about Madonna’s “Like a Virgin.” This chat, filled with pop culture trivia, sets the stage for the unique style that would become synonymous with QT. It’s intriguing to consider why they chose “Like a Virgin” among all songs. I propose this was a subtle nod to Tarantino himself, as a directorial novice making his cinematic debut, symbolizing his virginity in the world of filmmaking. In fact, he personally portrays Mr. Brown delivering this very message. Fast forward 25 years, and this scene remains a powerful testament to one of Tarantino’s core principles: unwavering professionalism.

5. The Hateful Eight (2015)

This gritty Western set in a general store during a blizzard, where cowboys and outlaws find themselves trapped together, combines elements reminiscent of both “Reservoir Dogs” and “Django Unchained.” The idea that the line between lawmen and ruffians blurrs significantly amidst this snowy purgatory isn’t groundbreaking, but Tarantino’s innovative approach to using deep-seated racial tensions as the central storyline feels increasingly relevant with time. (I recommend watching the theatrical cut on Netflix instead of the extended version.)

4. Death Proof (2007)

Quentin Tarantino once criticized Death Proof as his least favorite film, but I wholeheartedly and courteously oppose this viewpoint. In my opinion, Death Proof is a heartfelt ode from Tarantino to the golden age of cinema, specifically celluloid filmmaking and projection, which has largely disappeared in the decade since its release as part of a double feature with Robert Rodriguez’s Planet Terror, titled Grindhouse. Additionally, Death Proof serves as Tarantino’s tribute to the era of practical effects, where he transforms Kurt Russell’s character into an iconic slasher villain akin to Michael Myers. The only individual strong enough to challenge him is another stunt person: Zoe Bell, who was Uma Thurman’s double in Kill Bill. The title Death Proof symbolizes Russell’s indestructible car and also pays homage to the era of analog stunts and effects, which may have faded away. Yet, the essence of cinema will endure forever.

3. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)

Regardless of the notorious murders it portrays, “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” is one of Quentin Tarantino’s most charming films in years – or perhaps ever. Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt deliver outstanding performances as two friends in 1960s Los Angeles, with DiCaprio playing a struggling TV star attempting to resurrect his career, while Pitt portrays his calm stuntman and chauffeur. The film is a reflection of the closing years of the 1960s, the waning era of cinema, and perhaps even the twilight of Tarantino’s own career (You can read our full review here).

2. Jackie Brown (1997)

I appreciate the authenticity of the characters in “Jackie Brown.” Max Cherry isn’t a suave, black-suited gangster, but rather a down-on-his-luck man with thinning hair. Jackie Brown isn’t a seasoned criminal; she’s just trying to look tough before her showdown with an arms dealer. Louis Gara even forgets where he parked his car during a robbery. These characters are far from perfect, and that’s what makes them so compelling.

In contrast, some of Tarantino’s later works, though brilliant, could benefit from more of this realistic human touch. Some viewers were initially disappointed by “Jackie Brown” because it seemed less flashy and complex than “Pulp Fiction,” but upon reflection, the subtlety of the characters’ portrayals is nothing short of genius.

For instance, the opening credits, reminiscent of “The Graduate,” provide a glimpse into Jackie’s life before she utters a word. Scenes like the one where Ordell collects his debt from Beaumont are truly captivating. And the film concludes with one of the most memorable movie kisses of all time. It’s not particularly romantic; it’s flawed, just like real life.

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)

In the ’90s, “Pulp Fiction” may not have been the most impactful film, as there aren’t many movies similar to it two and a half decades later. However, for some time, it was one of the most frequently copied. The quality of these imitations, which were often poor, underscores how exceptional Tarantino’s abilities were, both in the past and present. “Pulp Fiction” is an unusual mix of elements that normally wouldn’t coalesce. It’s a grand epic of Los Angeles crime as well as an in-depth character analysis. It’s excessively dramatic with mysterious briefcases and secret underground lairs for bondage, yet it’s also strikingly ordinary with discussions about foot massages and foreign fast food. It’s massive, it’s minute, it’s funny, it’s sad, it’s violent, it’s cartoony. Simply put, “Pulp Fiction” is a unique blend of contrasting elements.

2025-01-28 17:54