Quentin Tarantino Names His Surprising Top Ten Films of the 21st Century, With a War Movie Taking First Place
Quentin Tarantino has never been shy about voicing his opinions on cinema, and his newly revealed list of the top ten films of the 21st century is a perfect example of just how eclectic—and surprising—his taste can be. Known for his encyclopedic knowledge of film history, Tarantino often champions unconventional favorites or overlooked gems, but few expected a gritty, early-2000s war movie to land at the very top of his ranking. Yet in true Tarantino fashion, he selected Black Hawk Down as the greatest film of the century so far, praising its unrelenting intensity, immersive style, and near-operatic execution.
Tarantino’s lists always generate waves, not only because he is one of contemporary cinema’s most influential filmmakers, but also because his assessments frequently diverge from mainstream critical consensus. His latest top-ten lineup spans an unusually wide range of genres—animated films, indie dramas, action spectacles, and zombie comedies—revealing a more playful and unpredictable side of his cinematic sensibilities. The variety in his selections underscores just how deeply he appreciates storytelling in all its forms, whether delivered through high-budget spectacle or smaller, character-driven narratives.
The headline-grabbing revelation, however, is undeniably his choice of Black Hawk Down. Many cinephiles consider Ridley Scott’s 2001 film a powerful and technically impressive portrayal of modern warfare, but it has not traditionally been framed as the definitive cinematic achievement of the past 25 years. Tarantino’s endorsement reframes its legacy, highlighting aspects of the film that he believes transcend genre limitations—its commitment to authenticity, its ensemble performance style, and its near-real-time depiction of chaos and camaraderie under fire. In his view, the film delivers a visceral experience unmatched by any war movie of its era, one that combines kinetic intensity with artistic precision.
The rest of the list reflects a filmmaker who values emotional resonance just as much as visual bravado. His inclusion of Toy Story 3 in the number-two spot demonstrates this clearly. While some may find an animated family film an unlikely runner-up, Tarantino has long praised the Pixar franchise for its clever storytelling and emotional maturity. He reportedly sees the third installment as a near-perfect blend of humor, urgency, and catharsis, capable of moving audiences of all ages.
Selections like Lost in Translation, Zodiac, Mad Max: Fury Road, and Shaun of the Dead further illustrate Tarantino’s admiration for bold cinematic voices. Whether the films are contemplative, procedural, adrenaline-fueled, or comedic, each brings a distinct creative vision that clearly resonates with him. His choices also show a willingness to spotlight movies that have influenced the modern film landscape—not just in technical achievement, but in tone, cultural impact, and originality.
In naming these ten films, Tarantino offers more than a personal favorites list; he provides a window into his own artistic DNA. The diversity of his selections reveals the broad tapestry of influences that have shaped his thinking, his tastes, and even his own filmmaking style. If nothing else, his top-ten list reinforces his identity as both a filmmaker and a lifelong student of cinema—one whose opinions continue to spark discussion, debate, and renewed appreciation for the movies he champions.
