Ultra-violent (and that's an under statement!)

Rating: Null/10 (13 October 2003)

'Kill Bill Vol. 1' is the most violent movie made since Oliver Stone's 1994 blood soaked 'Natural Born Killers'. Ironically, that film was written by Tarantino. It is a well known fact that Tarantino has an on going feud with Stone over the way Tarantino thought Stone misdirected that film. For some strange reason, there are amazing similarities between the way Tarantino directs KB and the way Stone directed NBK. Unusual to say the least. They both use ultra-violence that's over the top at times, animation mixed in with the live action and black and white is also used in both films. A chuckle can also be had by the fact that both films are photographed by Robert Richardson.
On another note, Stone admits that he went way over the top with NBK and I wonder if Tarantino will ever think and/or admit the same for KB. I also have to question the legitimacy of KB as far as credibility is concerned in its believability. But then I thought, "What the heck, Tarantino has proven his skills as a talented writer and director so he's entitled to go wild this time." 'Kill Bill Vol. 1' is an expert action film that has superbly choreographed fight scenes, top notch editing and great photography. For that I have to recommend this film. If you want to see a film that is well written and acted, forget it. KB is NOT that kind of film. It is simply an action film, no more no less with homages paid to Japanese mythology and the chop-saki action films from the 60's and 70's.
Tarantino loves to rekindle the 70's and should audition for a guest spot on 'That 70's Show' or better yet, try and direct an episode of that well liked show. Tarantino's love of 70's music is also a plus.
KB is destined to become a cult favourite and one little tidbit that has to be mentioned is the fact that in the closing credits, Tarantino thanks Governor Gray Davis and the state of California. Interesting in that the same week this film was released, Arnold Schwarzenegger replaced Gray Davis as the governor of California. Long live the insanity of the golden state and the wild imagination of the movies!!!