Quentin Tarantino Calls This ’70s Thriller ‘One of the Greatest Ever’ — Fans Are Stunned

Quentin Tarantino is once again spotlighting a classic film, this time praising William Friedkin’s 1977 thriller Sorcerer as one of the greatest movies ever created. The director’s comments resurfaced this week following renewed interest in Friedkin’s film. Tarantino emphasized the film’s suspense, practical effects, and enduring creative influence. The remarks emerged in connection with Friedkin Uncut, a documentary revisiting the filmmaker’s legacy. The discussion has pushed Sorcerer back into public conversation nearly five decades after release.

A ’70s Thriller Re-Emerges in the Spotlight

Tarantino, widely known for his deep knowledge of cinematic history, highlighted Sorcerer as a standout thriller built on raw tension rather than modern visual effects. Released in 1977 and directed by Academy Award winner William Friedkin, the film follows four outcasts in South America tasked with transporting unstable dynamite across dangerous terrain.

Initially considered a box-office disappointment, Sorcerer has since gained critical acclaim for its realism and bold practical filmmaking. Tarantino noted that despite the film’s early struggles, he believes its craftsmanship places it among the most influential thrillers ever made.

The film’s production relied heavily on authentic stunts, including the now-famous jungle bridge sequence—a scene that has become one of Tarantino’s personal favorites.

What Tarantino and Other Directors Said

During the Friedkin Uncut documentary, Quentin Tarantino described the rope-bridge segment as “one of the great suspense moments in cinema.” He praised the decision to film the sequence without miniatures or special-effects shortcuts, calling it a defining moment that showcased Friedkin’s commitment to realism.

Francis Ford Coppola, also interviewed in the documentary, echoed the sentiment, explaining that the entire sequence was achieved through careful practical engineering. Friedkin himself admitted that the shoot was dangerous, revealing that both trucks fell into the river multiple times during filming. In one instance, Friedkin said he went over the edge while inside one of the vehicles.

These testimonies underline why directors such as Tarantino and Christopher Nolan frequently credit Sorcerer as a creative influence, particularly regarding its practical stunts and grounded tension.

Why Tarantino’s Praise Matters

Tarantino’s endorsement carries weight due to his long-standing reputation as both a filmmaker and a film historian. His approval often drives renewed attention to classic films, helping audiences rediscover overlooked projects. His praise for Sorcerer adds to the film’s growing legacy, positioning it as a key example of 1970s filmmaking defined by risk, innovation, and craft.

Industry analysts note that Tarantino’s comments further reinforce a rising trend in Hollywood favoring practical effects over CGI-heavy production.

What’s Next

Following the renewed attention, several streaming platforms are expected to highlight Sorcerer in curated collections focused on classic thrillers and influential directors. Retrospective screenings may also increase as film institutions revisit Friedkin’s contributions to suspense cinema.

As Tarantino continues to discuss the movies that shaped his artistic approach, Sorcerer is poised to reach a wider audience, solidifying its evolving status as a cinematic landmark.

Sources

• Looper

• Yahoo Entertainment

• Friedkin Uncut Documentary

• Interviews: Quentin Tarantino, Francis Ford Coppola