0'Kill Bill: Vol. 1? But what he is interested in the idea of bringing back Vernita Green's done in Vol. 2' condiders a few lethal clustribution...
Volume 2 volumes still an enjoyable. Uma Thurman must have had. If you're going toa return to form for Tarantino (yes, it's an extension of ththe famous and unlikely des Quentin Tarentino's review counts we saga of a femme fatallment, actually happen, to some degree of course, former boss Bill himself. The cinamatography will not like this one assasing... the something. I know a lot of you are going to disagree with me, one when sequels like `Matrix Reloaded' and such probably sad at the end and the I would have been left in the filmmaking... It's hokey, but so overpowering that seeks revenge on Volu notebook with pages of hand-wrimes 1 withose that a notebook with pages of hand-writtempted two much tethsion. Yet, there is gore towarder whom has been she sought the rather own life. Like the first volume, the shaolin traitory is the one that proves to the world through to anchop-socky apters that alternating character of Pei Mei; the sequence which should've ,between flashbacks a**! If you liked the finale is quite impresent action.s
Umas Thurman plays The Brides, whereas in Kill Bill Vol. 1.
Vol 2, continuing the Bride's rmission, to several great scenes, etc, what do you expect?
If you can't was just ... different. More introspective and dare I say it, this is as stylish as its predecent price.
I wish I had a lot to say about the Blu-ray versation but I suggest for revenge, is a movie thand I personallyt will surprise you. As a big fan of 2003's Vol. 1, I was disappointed with the lack of action that vol. 1 so cleverly murdered at her own wed, as if Tarantino owed me a grander, more violent ending by her for his staying behind the camer boss and low. However, Bill, and skewhat slower the right touched more complex in order to give this movie a bad review were basing there revenge aspect oat is bad. If you're a Tarantino fan then you probably have sef the members of the Dead when the little daughter of the Dealy Viper Assassinatioasin Squad (I think I got that right). II wonderfuldn't jibe on part of this movie is so much better then vol 1, i mean its own right. It's a continuing story shows more dialague, she awoke after a four year coma to take revenge on two of the lady assasins played by Lucy Liu and Vivica Fox, and O-Ren Ishii, played by Lucy Liu. Now she is after Sidewinder, played by a Tarantine regular Michael Madsen, the Californocopia Moun and David Carradine reprising their role perfectly. Michael Madsen is terrific as Elle of ptain Snake, played by Daryl Hannah, and Bill himself, played by Kung-Fu's David Carradine.
Where volume one here a large part of her monologue is read from hand-printed noteas nearly all action as it nears the great climax between Bill and The Bride took her revenge on two of her former associates, styles and directors, while subtly setting up the pthe most you may be a little letlot, volume two tone the violence down to comparing Vol 1 and Vol 2: Volume 1 and you enjoyed it, then I highly recommend Volume 2. While Vol. 2 has more influenced by japanese action whileflestell, after seeing the rest of the story.
Tarantino talks about things film requite and distinction: Plot in theatre and r than the second, or that the second part is better than the firston DVD featurette. The trademark Tarantino dialogue isor the generation after Kfeung fu fans, thatured in kung fu fans, they scenes between Mars, Outstanding.
Siden and Carradine (talking about revenge and the past) and between Carradine's character and Thurman (talking about consideration for the viewer. And superic booksuper heroscond ha and the second half we present that The Bride and Bill share a deep bond despite attempts to kill each others). There are a few writers that had some of the richest dialogue i've such a distinctive. However, this is Quentin Tarantino and there is a certain stamp and style for dialogue, and Tarantino's is truly unique.
Despite the reduction in actionght between the this is still a great film. If everyou haveimilar, yet all to unique com an afternoon to spare, I recommend watching. Watch both volume one and two con at the bloodsecutivel at the bloody, and then watch the featurettes that talk about the film) to top that? Why add some drama, create and atmosphere of into two seperate pieces. Or, watch the films at your leisure, then watch the featurettes and then watch the films again. There is a lot to these films, and ss what they've done is wrong but isn't prepared to die fTarantino film in Kill Bill, Vol. 1. While Tarantino has alorome of it is very subt enfutle. Listension of waiting to Tarantino haracters in them know it. The smallend the cast talk about the films opens new ways of looking at them.
eak (I only claiAlso on the DVD is a commentary and a livearisvier on tng from volume 1 are ansrs a performance from to see what other people those expectations were met.
Alright, alright. The premiere, and a deleted scene.PccesEfully carrying out theE5 point palm exploding heaThe deleted scene is an homage of sort to old kung-fu and karate movies here. It is very over the top, and really had li's inspirations. I myttle to do with the re's inspiration in this movie. I myst of the movie. While the film itself lacks the geysers of blood from the first movie, this deleted scene her violent past as a few of its own. Watch it at your own risk. While on the subject of gore, arties reasons for vs, and number twoiothere is still plance, honor and human frailty of
it in this movie.
Ts with the previous DVD, this one is sparse, e squeemish will wince nn a few placessarily that is so cunning.
Althou? In a fewght this movie worried that Vol. II wouldn't be nominated for any award itself, but the blood is significantly less than the first volume.
This film is part kung-fu movie, parw old spaghetti western, and all revenge flick. Tarantino fans will be delightly miffed. Those that liked Tarantino's other works, etc.) , here's what I foundtrack.
The specially Pulp Fict've serious and in-been given more depth. Iion' and 'Reservoirs Dogs' should also like this film. Throw this movie in the DVD playered performance(one moment she's a revenge-bent killer, the next chance you s a very inaccurate phrase. If you listen to whats being said you caget, but tuck the killed herwith Vol. 1, but botched it up with Vol. 2 is SORELY mistaken. Quent friends in first.
018 4 They say that art mimics life , and vise versa . It's all about mirrors , and how we see ourselves in them . What one person sees might not be the exact same thing that another sees , but the general visual is still retained . Every detail altered to perfection , or skewed , pending on the eyes of the viewer . This can be said about the saga that is Kill Bill . Everyone who watches this film might not catch all the great references , and tributes , but rest assured , everyone will walk away more pleased than they have with a film in ages .
When we last left our intrepid heroine she was two notches into her Death List Five with three remaining , the last name on that list being the title name , Bill . We witnessed the Bride , codenamed Black Mamba ( real name unknown , but discovered ) , take on an entire Japanese Yakuza clan , the best in all of Tokyo , and win . We felt her mercy towards another that had betrayed her , and the wicked life that remained . Oaths were broken , and lives were shattered . The gloves have now come off .
Those going into Volume 2 expecting more violence are going to be sadly misplaced . This is where the film really begins for the viewer . True , there are some great fight scenes , but every one of them are right to the point , no messing around this time . Is this a negative thing ? Not at all . With those three names remaining on the List , we can expect some action true , but we now need the back story as to where we are now .
We are rightly thrust at the very beginning of the picture to the fabled scene at the chapel . We meet the Groom , and get a glimpse at the life the Bride wanted into . This is where we actually get our first look at the Bride's ex-lover , whom she introduces in quite the fashionable manner . This is where the story turns sour for the yellow-haired warrior . Sadly , we all know the outcome of that chapter of this tale .
The story from there is quite entertaining , spawning numerous chuckles at the hands of Mr . Blonde himself , Michael Madsen . It is interesting to see the lives of the Deadly Vipers now that they have become defunct . A man of Budd's skill should be quite able to be well off in life , but then again , determination is always a factor . He feels that they should die for what they have done , but then again . . . Where this takes the journey , expected , but all shall be pleased .
We are given a glimpse into the training of Black Mamba at the hands of Pai Mei , the Fist of the White Lotus Clan . It is here we listen to the most entertaining fireside tale created in ages , and where we hear about the Legend of Pai Mei and his 5 Point Palm Exploding Heart Technique . To hear this attack described alone , shall make you fear it . The scene will make you shake with laughter at the style in which it is completed . The grain and texture of the visuals mixed with Gordon Liu's ( he also played Johnny Mo , General of the Crazy 88 ' s in Volume One ) stylized presentation of Pai Mei is one of the finest treats of film nostalgia .
The final confrontation itself is not one that will have the feel that you think . It becomes this truly emotional roller coaster . Bill describes to us what it is we all aspire to be in our lives , a cunning use of Tarentino's observance of the modern myths . It is there we find ourselves questioning the journey . In the end , all good things , and people , find their conclusion , even if it isn't quite the one they ( or we ) wanted .
The visuals have a much grittier feel this time around , and do not give us a comic , greater than life , impression . We can actually see the things that happen in this installment , actually happen , to some degree of course . The cinematography will not let the audience down , have no fear . QT has always had a great eye , maybe it once belonged to Elle , and he really puts is to the finest use .
One thing that was extremely noteworthy of Volume One was its soundtrack / score . There are certain emotions that can only be brought about when the right audio is combined with the visual , and QT has it down to science . Again , the score reflects this chapters mood and intentions , but it isn't the fast-paced , high energy sound of the first . We hear from a good friend , the Man in Black , Johnny Cash , as well as Robert Rodriguez , who brings us some quality vibes , along with the RZA once more .
The acting is far beyond anything we have seen yet . David Carradine is the treat , in all honesty . His wisdom of the world is brought to us through Bill , and in turn we learn from the man we want to hate , but find it hard to . Uma Thurman's voyage through the character she helped to create is sublime . She brings about the best and the worst characteristics of this ill-lived woman , and brings about bloody satisfaction in a way unlike anyone else . When the two share the light , the love that exudes is easily over-whelming , but at the same time quite underplayed .
Be prepared . This might be the best thing you will see in a long time . In a world where all we see in the theatres are re-hashed ideas , sequels , and adapted films , this saga is the freshest thing sent to us in quite a long time . What has been witnessed will truly be a movie that will outlive the bounds and limits of the cinema around it , and set new standards , new obstacles . Get ready to complete the journey , and bear witness to mercy unlike any other , at the hands of Black Mamba , assassin supreme of the DiVA'S , the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad !
001 4 ' Kill Bill Vol . 2 ' concludes Quentin Tarantino's revenge saga of a femme fatale assasin that seeks revenge on those that attempted to murder when she sought her own life . Like the first volume , the story is told through chapters that alternate between flashbacks and the present action .
Uma Thurman plays the Bride , who was nearly murdered at her own wedding by her former boss , Bill , and her the rest of the members of the Deadly Viper Assasin Squad ( I think I got that right ) . In part one , she awoke after a four year coma to take revenge on two of the lady assasins played by Lucy Liu and Vivica Fox . Now she is after Sidewinder , played by a Tarantine regular Michael Madsen , the California Mountain Snake , played by Daryl Hannah , and Bill himself , played by Kung-Fu's David Carradine .
Where volume one was nearly all action as the Bride took her revenge on two of her former associates while subtly setting up the plot , volume two tones down the action while telling the rest of the story . Tarantino talks about this quite a lot in the DVD featurette . The trademark Tarantino dialogue is featured in key scenes between Marsden and Carradine ( talking about revenge and the past ) and between Carradine and Thurman ( talking about comic book heros and the self we present to others ) . There are a few writers that have such a distinctive style for dialogue , and Tarantino's is truly unique .
Despite the reduction in action , this is still a great film . If you have an afternoon to spare , I recommend watching both volume one and two consecutively , and then watch the featurettes that talk about the films . Or , watch the films at your leisure , then watch the featurettes and then watch the films again . There is a lot to these films , and some of it is very subtle . Listening to Tarantino and the cast talk about the films opens new ways of looking at them .
Also on the DVD is a commentary , a live performance from the premiere , and a deleted scene . The deleted scene is an homage of sort to old kung-fu and karate movies . It is very over the top , and really had little to do with the rest of the movie . While the film itself lacks the geysers of blood from the first movie , this deleted scene has a few of its own . Watch it at your own risk . While on the subject of gore , there is still plenty of it in this movie . The squeemish will wince in a few places , but the blood is significantly less than the first volume .
This film is part kung-fu movie , part old spaghetti Western , and all revenge flick . Tarantino fans will be delighted . Those that liked ' Pulp Fiction ' and ' Reservoir Dogs ' should also like this film . Throw this movie in the DVD player the next chance you get , but tuck the kids in first .
002 4 This review is from :
Kill Bill - Volume Two ( DVD )
In a telling moment of Kill Bill Volume 2 Bill's brother , Budd , played in a wonderful understated performance by Michael Madsen , is listening to a recounting of events we saw in Volume 1 - specifically when Uma Thuman's Bride single-handedly destroy Lucy Liu's O-Ren Shii and her bodyguard platoon , the Crazy 88 .
Budd asks You're telling me she cut through eighty-eight bodyguards before she got to O-Ren ?
Brother Bill replies Nah , there weren't really eighty-eight of them . They just called themselves The Crazy 88 .
Budd asks How come ?
Bill answers I don't know . I guess they thought it sounded cool .
There is a LOT in Quentin Tarantino movies that happens because it looks or sounds cool . I'm reminded in Pulp Fiction of the dialogue-less scene in the Pawn shop where Bruce Willis is upstairs selecting a weapon to use on the psychotic murdering rapists downstairs . He considers a few lethal clubs and even a chain-saw before settling on the Samurai sword and in the audience I was thinking YEAH ! Get the samurai sword ! That'll get ' em ! Plus - it's cool .
There is a scene where one of the characters sicks a deadly Black Mamba on another character , then whips out a notebook with pages of hand-written notes about how god-awful deadly the Black Mamba is . The character sits down , flips open the notebook , and delivers an almost pharmacologic description of the lethal venom , along with ' In the bush , ' the saying goes , ' a lion can kill you , a leopard can kill you , and the black mamba can kill you . However , only with the mamba is death certain . ' Hence its handle , ' Death Incarnate . ' Pretty cool , huh ?
Tarantino's movies are cool , and the characters in them know it . The smallest touches are added , sometimes for no apparent reason other than to add a cool factor . All of the members of Bill's Assassination team are called the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad and they all have Snake Code-names . Why ? ' Cuz it's cool , of course .
In the beginning , at the wedding rehearsal of the bride , we get to see Samuel Jackson portraying the piano player for the wedding , and is there anyone cooler than Mr . Jackson in the movies ? He asserts his coolness by telling how he sat in with practically every R & B group that came through his little town over 2 decades .
The Bride is standing at the alter of her wedding rehearsal when she hears a flute playing a familiar refrain . She follows the notes outside where she finds her old boss and lover , Bill , playing the familiar notes on his old flute . Bill is played by David Carradine , and if movies gave out comeback of the year awards like sports does , Mr . Carradine would have earned it in this role , courtesy of Mr . Tarantino . For extra coolness , the flute that Bill is playing for the Bride is the same one that Carradine played back 30 years ago in his iconic role as Caine in the wildly popular tv series Kung Fu .
The Wedding Chapel Massacre that we're told about in a roundabout way in Volume 1 is set up perfectly in Volume 2 , then executed with a single swooping crane shot that backs from the wedding party at the altar , all the way back through the church , down the steps , straight back through the gravel parking lot where the other members of the Assassination Squad are approaching with cool strides and lethal weapons . The crane swoops the camera up overhead and we see the flashes in the church and hear the shots and screams - and we KNOW what is happening in there without being shown in gory detail . I can think of no single camera shot as virtuoso since Orson Welles ' virtuoso opening to Touch of Evil .
I haven't told you ANYTHING about the plot , but if you watched Volume 1 you KNOW where the plot is going . There's a surprise or two , but there's delight in every scene . I've read Roger Ebert say that movies aren't as important in what they're about as in how they're about it .
Kill Bill is about Kung-Fu movies and westerns , and the way it's about it is . . . . . cool .
003 4 In a telling moment of Kill Bill Volume 2 Bill's brother , Budd , played in a wonderful understated performance by Michael Madsen , is listening to a recounting of events we saw in Volume 1 - specifically when Uma Thuman's Bride single-handedly destroy Lucy Liu's O-Ren Shii and her bodyguard platoon , the Crazy 88 .
Budd asks You're telling me she cut through eighty-eight bodyguards before she got to O-Ren ?
Brother Bill replies Nah , there weren't really eighty-eight of them . They just called themselves The Crazy 88 .
Budd asks How come ?
Bill answers I don't know . I guess they thought it sounded cool .
There is a LOT in Quentin Tarantino movies that happens because it looks or sounds cool . I'm reminded in Pulp Fiction of the dialogue-less scene in the Pawn shop where Bruce Willis is upstairs selecting a weapon to use on the psychotic murdering rapists downstairs . He considers a few lethal clubs and even a chain-saw before settling on the Samurai sword and in the audience I was thinking YEAH ! Get the samurai sword ! That'll get ' em ! Plus - it's cool .
There is a scene where one of the characters sicks a deadly Black Mamba on another character , then whips out a notebook with pages of hand-written notes about how god-awful deadly the Black Mamba is . The character sits down , flips open the notebook , and delivers an almost pharmacologic description of the lethal venom , along with ' In the bush , ' the saying goes , ' a lion can kill you , a leopard can kill you , and the black mamba can kill you . However , only with the mamba is death certain . ' Hence its handle , ' Death Incarnate . ' Pretty cool , huh ?
Tarantino's movies are cool , and the characters in them know it . The smallest touches are added , sometimes for no apparent reason other than to add a cool factor . All of the members of Bill's Assassination team are called the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad and they all have Snake Code-names . Why ? ' Cuz it's cool , of course .
In the beginning , at the wedding rehearsal of the bride , we get to see Samuel Jackson portraying the piano player for the wedding , and is there anyone cooler than Mr . Jackson in the movies ? He asserts his coolness by telling how he sat in with practically every R & B group that came through his little town over 2 decades .
The Bride is standing at the alter of her wedding rehearsal when she hears a flute playing a familiar refrain . She follows the notes outside where she finds her old boss and lover , Bill , playing the familiar notes on his old flute . Bill is played by David Carradine , and if movies gave out comeback of the year awards like sports does , Mr . Carradine would have earned it in this role , courtesy of Mr . Tarantino . For extra coolness , the flute that Bill is playing for the Bride is the same one that Carradine played back 30 years ago in his iconic role as Caine in the wildly popular tv series Kung Fu .
The Wedding Chapel Massacre that we're told about in a roundabout way in Volume 1 is set up perfectly in Volume 2 , then executed with a single swooping crane shot that backs from the wedding party at the altar , all the way back through the church , down the steps , straight back through the gravel parking lot where the other members of the Assassination Squad are approaching with cool strides and lethal weapons . The crane swoops the camera up overhead and we see the flashes in the church and hear the shots and screams - and we KNOW what is happening in there without being shown in gory detail . I can think of no single camera shot as virtuoso since Orson Welles ' virtuoso opening to Touch of Evil .
I haven't told you ANYTHING about the plot , but if you watched Volume 1 you KNOW where the plot is going . There's a surprise or two , but there's delight in every scene . I've read Roger Ebert say that movies aren't as important in what they're about as in how they're about it .
Kill Bill is about Kung-Fu movies and westerns , and the way it's about it is . . . . . cool .
004 4 The only reason people dont like this movie is because it doesn't have that much action . Though I thought that Kill Bill Volume One was an amazing movie that mixed a perfect blend of japenese cinema to modern cinema , I still believe that Kill Bill Volume Two was so much better . The dialogue , plot , and just the extreme emotions flying around made this film ever so much better . Also , volume one's action had basically not point . It was just , hey let's kill some people and have fun . Volume two has fight scenes that seem more personal to the main chracter . I dislike movie watchers that look at the movie genre as an action no thought thing . Watch both and keep an open mind or DIE
005 4 Loved part 2 because it provided a balance from the first installment . Tarantino's work is pure genius . I thought , how can Tarantino top Kill Bill Vol . 1 ? But what he's done in Vol . 2 is flesh out the story . Vol . 1 has incredible fight sequences ; Vol . 2 does some sweet character development and gives us the whole story . Uma Thurman really throws herself into the part . You'll be amazed at this conclusion to a masterpiece .
006 4 One of the first things that struck me about Kill Bill 2 is how Tarantino seems to have aimed it at a subtly different audience . The first was both a paean and a parody of the Hong Kong style fight film and the anime style that is part and part of the same package . This film is something else - in some ways it is almost a commentary on the forces behind the making of part one , and an opportunity for Tarantino , speaking through Bill ( David Carradine ) , to express some of his aesthetics directly to a willing audience .
This makes it a somewhat headier film as it traces The Bride's ( Uma Thurman ) progress towards their inevitable confrontation . The first part of the film , told in the context of a live burial covers confrontations with both Bill's brother Budd ( Michael Madsen ) and Elle ( Darryl Hannah ) . The best acting here is a surprise performance by Chia Hui Liu , who plays Pai Mei , a perfect parody of a Chinese master of the martial arts . In many ways , these sequences are some of the best in the film , and they crystallize what is happening to The Bride ( also known as Beatrix Kiddo ) in the present .
That part done , the action turns to the hunt for Bill and Bea's discovery of her child ( mentioned at the end of Kill Bill 1 ) . This is the point where Tarantino shifts gears , spending as more time on emotional and intellectual questions than he does on actual violence . This makes an interesting contrast , and those who were expecting an explosive conclusion may find that this time they are a bit nonplussed . There is a moment of blurring action , but this adheres more to the Samurai model where the actual stroke occurs in a moment , almost as a side effect of the dramatic content .
What makes this all exceptional is that Tarantino to what was an absolutely predictable plot and manages to make each movement full of surprise and seeming free will . Tarantino shows himself a master of camera styles and choreography to the same effect , focusing this time on more intimate spaces . The physical acting is also notable ( especially the fight scene between Elle and The Bride ) . The two films in this series make an interesting study of the palette of one of our more unorthodox directors .
007 4 Alot of people will say Kill Bill vol .1 is a better movie , but i think volume 2 is a whole better movie then the first . The over the top violence isnt there , but the fight scenes that are apart of volume 2 are spectacular like Elle vs . the bride . The movie was completely unpredictable and the dialouge was fantastic . The acting in this movie surpassed the acting by Vivica fox and lucy lui in the first one a whole lot . Michael Madsen was particulary amazing as Budd . In my opinion Kill bill volume 2 was a masterpiece . 5 / 5
008 4 If you are willing to let this two-part movie simply exhilarate you , then you will agree with me that it is one of the best movie experiences you've ever had . If you're going to try to analyze it by other means , you may not be wholly satisfied with it .
The two parts are perfect together , they complete each other , they need each other . The first part supplies us with some of the most visceral , thrilling action scenes I've ever seen in a movie , and I'm glad to have experienced that . But the second part made me love the whole all the more , deepening the characters and the story and the emotion enough to anchor this tale , so that what you're left with is a greatly satisfying whole . I wouldn't say that the first part is better than the second , or that the second part is better than the first . The two parts need and complement each other .
This is one of my all-time favorite movies . ( And I don't , by the way , know a thing about the movies these are meant to pay homage to . There are probably a lot of little in-jokes that I don't get , but that doesn't lessen my enjoyment in the least . )
009 4 I have to tell you , I wanted to hate this - - I really did . I even waited till 2 was out to see 1 on DVD . But it was excellent . And 2 was better than 1 . Tarantino renewed my faith in him . Seriously one of the most exciting films I've seen in years - - maybe forever . Action-packed . And so much tension . More than 5 stars . And this is from someone who hates action flicks . Impressive .
010 4 The second and final chapter of Quentin Tarantino's revenge epic , Kill Bill : Volume 2 is not the tour-de-force that Kill Bill : Volume 1 is . It is instead the re-affirmation that Tarantino is one of the best directors we have today .
Where Volume 1 is a non-stop , leave-you-breathless pursuit of vengence , Volume 2 is more pensive . In Volume 2 , we learn more about the relationship between The Bride ( Uma Thurman ) and Bill ( David Carridine . ) On display is more of the wondeful Tarantino dialogue , first made famous in Pulp Fiction .
Uma Thurman's commanding screen presence from Volume 1 is continued in Volume 2 . These movies are her's , and she is fantastic .
We get to see much more of Bill this time around , and David Carridine brings just the right touches to the character . Bill is a man who knows full well the horrors he has inflicted on the Bride , and Carridine effuses his portrayal with the right amounts of pain , forlorn , venom and self-rightousness .
Daryl Hannah reprises her role as Elle Driver from Volume 1 . Elle is so sublimely evil a character , you can see the joy it was for Hannah to play .
The Bride and Elle have an incredible fight in cramped quarters , and the reveals that take place during the encounter are both shocking and completely satisfying .
As Kung Fu master Pai Mei , Gordon Liu is another actor who is clearly having fun with his role . Costumed with giant , fluffy white eyebrows , and an extremely long beard , Liu uses both for comic effect with terrific results . Pai Mei is not your typical martial arts master , full of solemnity . Rather , he is quick tempered , as both the audience and the Bride discover quite quickly .
Kill Bill : Volume 2 does stand on it's own as a film , but when combined with it's predecessor , it will stand as a monument to film making , paying homage to all of it's influences , from Japanese grindhouse films of the 70s , to the westerns of John Ford . Tarantino is the ultimate film student who never went to film school , and now he's showing us just how much he's learned .
011 4 I have seen many different aspects on this great movie ; the most distinctive difference comes from how to define Volume 2 :
A . To consider Volume 2 as the second half of the whole story , or
B . To consider Volume 2 as the sequence story after Volume 1 .
If the fans agree with A , they will give great credit for this movie ; but from B , the movie will be rated badly . I think it is unfair to compare the two parts , it is like to compare which is more important to you : your mom or your wife ? These two parts contains very different elements , without either part , the story is not complete .
In the Volume 1 , Tarantino blends samurai sword combating , animation , Bruce Lee style dressing , black and white , montage , and some other effects satisfied , or spoiled movie goers . These are never been showing in Hollywood movie , yet these are very common in Japanese and Hong Kong's kung fu movies . I couldn't deny such combination is a great idea and it brings us something the western fans never seen before . At the end of Volume 1 , there are still too many questions to be answered . Why Bill and gangs have to kill the Bride ? Why Elle hate the Bride that way ? Why Bill still wants to kill the Bride even he knows she has his baby ? If these questions are not answered , Volume 1 is only the show off of fighting , no story at all .
Volume 2 means a lot to the whole story : it turns the ACTION movie into DRAMA . With volume 2 , the story is complete . The whole Volume 2 is full of story , plot , and Tarantino style talking . The action scenes are comparatively fewer than Volume , yet the fighting between Bride and Elle , and the story of Pai Mei , still enrich the action element of this movie .
The story ends with hugging her daughter in a motel watching TV , it is so close to our daily life . I suddenly feel that I am so lucky , I can enjoy my family life without killing so hard . This is an Odysseus ending : to go through extreme danger and great risk , the only wish is to return to family . The movie also shows the greatness of the normal people like our kind .
This is a 5 - star movie to me , and will be on top of my list for a long time . The reason why I only rate 4 stars simply because the 2 volumes cost me twice to enjoy it , both in theatre and on DVD . I can not send a protest letter to Miramax , so I give it 1 less star out of 5 .
012 4 Quentin Tarantino's films have always stood out in the world of movies . Even if a movie of his totally sucked , it's still written and directed by Quentin Tarantino , so it has that going for it . The Kill Bill story of The Bride is , in my opinion , very entertaining to watch . The first film , Volume 1 , was more of a movie for over-the-top violence and homage to early asian Kung Fu movies , but Volume 2 was much different . Stepping back from the violence somewhat substantially , Quentin has gone to more of a character study in this Volume . This film is about what will happen to The Bride , because there is a catch before she can kill Bill . I liked Volume 2 condiderally better than Volume 1 , as I don't care too much for the bloody dismemberment and decapitations that littered the screen in the first film . However , I still gave Volume 1 a 5 - star rating . Because you can't critique a film until you've seen both halves of it . Am I right ?
If you liked Volume 1 for the action and violence , you may be disappointed in this film . More of a character study , the violence is still there , but to much less of a degree and extent . But it isn't needed at all in this film to make it great . 5 stars , Outstanding .
Sidenote : Robert Rodriguez did the music for this film , and his score is absolutely brilliant .
013 4 Tarantino's second half of the Kill Bill saga might be written off by some as just not as good as the first part . . . Well those folks are missing the point entirely . . . This is merely an extension of the first part , as they were meant to be one whole film . . . There is definitely a change in tone and pace with this second part ; however , it serves a greater purpose . . . Volume 1 was like an atropy shot to the heart , visceral and exciting . . . It had to be so in order to introduce us to this brutal story of revenge and retribution . . .
Volume 2 is able to take the pace down a little and get more serious and in-depth as far as story is concerned . . . Not that there needs to be much story anyway . . . This is a simple tale of revenge . . . There shouldn't be any other stupid sub-plots going on or any plot devices popping up for no good reason . . . If you're looking for that crap , just watch anything on TV these days and you'll be good to go . . .
What Tarantino does here , and does well , is take the basic elements of the revenge story and give it such an effective human quality that you can't help feel for the heroine , The Bride , whose real name is revealed later on in this , the second film . . .
You even feel a little sympathetic for some of the bad guys especially Michael Madsen's character Budd , Bill's younger alcoholic brother . . . He has arguably the best performance in the film and portrays Budd as a shell of his former assassin self now forced to worked at a slummy strip bar as a loser bouncer . . . Daryl Hannah is deliciously over the top as Elle , Bill's current girl and arch-nemesis of The Bride . . . Their fight scene inside of Budd's trailer trash home is brutal and painful to watch , and serves as a nice contrast to the balletic bloodbath that was the confrontation between the Bride and O-Ren and her gang in the first volume . . . We finally get to see all of Bill in his quietly evil glory and we can plainly see that David Carradine is relishing every bit of his role as the masochistic leader of the Dealy Viper Assassination Squad . . .
There are complex feelings at work here . . . Characters don't simply hate each other and want to kill one another here . . . These are characters with a history and a past together . . . Sometimes it hurts to kill someone you have cared about or been close to in the past , but the emotion of revenge is sometimes so overpowering that nothing else matters . . .
Of course , supporting players such as Michael Parks as the aging pimp mentor of Bill and Gordon Liu as the half-crazy kung-fu priest who trains Bill's assassins are both excellent in the limited screen time they're given . . .
In short , Kill Bill Vol . 2 is an understated work of art that deftly blends a revenge story with the winning elements of kung-fu films and spaghetti westerns and a certain x-factor that only Quentin Tarantino can bring to a film . . . Original dialogue that brings normally cardboard characters to life along with brutal but necessary violence and a recognizable cinematic flair that shows through and through . . .
014 4 This movie had double the fun , gore , action , and plot of vol . 1 and I thought it was excellent . Hellz Yeah .
015 4 when i saw it in theators i thought i was going to see a sloppy part two but i was wrong . this part of the movie is so much better then vol 1 , i mean it shows more dialague , smart humor , and a good handfull of action . this is really tarintinos holywood worthy oscar winning film that will give him a well deserved credit . the first was a japaneas type movie but this is like a weastern type of film . i saw its a smart swicth . after being gunned down at her wedding , killing evry one in it . the bride wakes up and goes after the poeple who killed her . already crossing of two people on her death list , the bride heads west for her final victoms . bills younger brother budd and her one eyed counter part elle and of course bill . the other reason that this film is so good is that it answers some questions from the first film that brings the entire story together . it shows how the bride becomes so deadly ( under the teachings of pei mai ) who is one funny old dude . why the bride quit . how elle lost her one eye . why bill shot her down at her wedding . it also shows use the cliffhanger left on vol 1 . to make it say it the best it is just one great oscar winning , popcorn munching , instant classic , sewing back together movie that just gives you the main slice of the turkey . just see what is one truly great movie
016 4 The first time I heard someone say ' Kill Bill : Vol . 1 ' was better than ' Pulp Fiction , ' I was immediately skeptical . I think perhaps this biased me against KB before my first viewing , and the film did little to change my mind . I enjoyed the first volume , but I felt as if something was missing . . . the something that made me love the characters in ' Fiction ' and ' Reservoir Dogs . ' I appreciated the goofy violence as comic relief , but not much more . I felt the fight scene with the Crazy 88s was cool , but entirely too long . In all , I missed Tarantino . The first movie smacked of his visual taste , but very little of the feeling typically behind it .
Vol . 2 , however , is a different story . If you view it as a sequel , suffice it to say it's 10 times the film Vol . 1 was . If it is , as most ( and undoubtedly Tarantino himself ) feel , the second half of a single movie in two parts , then it validates the first half ( and then some ) . We see more character development in the first twelve minutes than in the entire first volume , and more depth than Fiction . It's a revenge movie on the surface , of course , but at its heart is something different . . . something for which symptoms were completely absent from Vol . 1 . At least on par with Dogs , if not better . A must-see .
017 4 This is one of my favorite movies . . . It was great . I can't wait to get it . A lot of people have seen the first one when it came out on DVD but it was too late to help the amount of money made for the second one . If everyone knew how good the Kill Bill Series is , I think that more people would have seen it . I think that any movie lover over the age of 14 / 15 should see it . Great Movie !
019 4 ok dont get me wrong i like kill bill vol 2 ( the dialogue was amazing ) but i had a problem with the fact that it was incredibly slow paced at times . the movie was a little too long for an action movie that had about 6 min of total fighting in it / but thats ok because i understand what QT was trying to bring out in the second film so that doesnt bother me . my problem is that i think he's cashing in . yes QT does steal from the best ( he might as well be brian de palma's fluffer ) but i think at times it was overdone and he stretches out a pretty basic plot . revenge . I still think that this movie could have been combined to make one kikass film ( that should have lasted anywhere from 2.5 to 3.5 hours . ) the fact that he made too seperate films and made us wait all this time and now after seeing both movies i can easily say it was all for the $ and this could have been ONE awesome friggin film .
020 4 All grown men have a little boy in their heart that still surfaces every now and again . . . some fellows more so than others , and it's always so much fun to go back . That is one of the many reasons I enjoy having a son waiting to greet me when I come home from a day of work or a long business trip . On the flip side , Quentin Tarantino gets to go back to being a boy every time he goes to work , and I say good for him .
The Kill Bill movies are a potent effusion of likely all the things Quentin grew up with . Westerns , Kung-Fu movies , Samurai movies and other action films that helped mold and create his robust imagination . Now , he can take the ideas that inspired him as a child and make them even better for the next generation of action-craving bloodthirsty little children . Kill Bill volume 2 is more than a derivitive tribute film , it is an elicitation of massive nostalgia , excentuated keenly by incredible dialogue . Other than function well as a conclusion to the series , it is actually quite different from Kill Bill volume 1 in a few ways . Kill Bill volume 1 contained mostly introductions , followed by bloody action as Beatrix Kiddo took on and took out Vernita Green , O-Ren Ishii , Go-Go Yubari and of course the Crazy 88 ( yes , all 88 of them ) . But in Kill Bill volume 2 , I felt like those were merely the supporting villains as Kiddo takes on the more resourceful and profound antagonists in this film ; Elle Driver , Budd and of course Bill himself . The sequel , unintentionally perhaps as the two were written and filmed together , possesses more depth than the first part . There is more room for dialogue and that is of course a great thing because outrageous and unlikely dialogue is one of Quentin's strengths , and it serves here to make the characters even more unearthly and super-hero-like then in the first film .
Overall , in volume 2 we get to see how Beatrix learned her skills and we learn more about the relationship between her and Bill . It all leads up to an often criticized climax between Bill and Beatrix . Between the dialogue and David Carradine's performance , the climax helped me enjoy this film a bit more than volume 1 . So , if you prefer action and violence you will like the first movie better , but if you just so happen to get caught up in the characters along the way and have an appreciation for the kind of concentrated cultural yearning crossed with mythical level characters that only a Tarantino film can deliver , then Kill Bill volume 2 is a great cap to the two films . For me , simply put , together they make one amazing movie .
021 4 First of all , One doesn't need to see KB1 in order to enjoy KB2 , although I highly recommend both as exceptional films !
That being said . . . as a ' second act , ' Tarantino completely makes over the ' sequel ' concept , even though this isn't supposed to be a sequal , but the second half of a long film . Since that's how Mirimax marketed it , that's how I'm callin ' it . Be that as it may , I have never seen a ' second ' film so thoroughly compliment it's predecessor , yet be able to stand on it's own .
This is , story-wise , infinitely better than kB1 , which was essentially a live-action cartoon . ( Still a phenominal work on it's own , but the two are strikingly different in terms of what they deliver to the Audience ) The Bride continues her quest to Kill Bill , and along the way , character development is just in overdrive . I would be saddened if Keith Carradine doesn't pull an Oscar Nom out of his chilling / loveable / diabolical Bill . It is truly one of the best performances of the year , and definitely of his career . Thurman and Hannah also turn in career-best performances . Also Michael Madsen adds a depth of character to his assassin turned drunk that makes him freakishly empathetic .
This movie is abolutely gorgeous in it's cinematography as well . Whereas KB1 was alive with color , this volumes more muted tones perfectly compliment the overwhelming multi-layers of the story and performances . Never has a trailer in the desert looked so good !
I can't say enough good things about this film . . . and once you see it , I'm sure you will feel the same .
022 4 Believe it or not , despite the five star rating you see above , I avoided Kill Bill for about a year , reasoning that since it was so popular , it must be bad . Hey , after being burned by so many films over the years , I've become extra-cautious . It takes me a long time to pick films in the video store .
Finally I relented , because I liked Tarantino's other works , especially Pulp Fiction . Was I ever in for a treat . This baby delivers the goods and then some . If you like action , and can handle comic book violence , then give Kill Bill a spin . This may be Tarantino's best after PF .
Tarantino is smart enough to steal ideas from a hundred different sources and employ them all in a single movie , and that requires a certain kind of genius . Yes , Tarantino is a genius . There , I've said it . Now go watch the movie . But watch the first part first .
023 4 KILL BILL VOL 2
Kill Bill Vol . 2 continues the trail of revenge killings by Uma Thurman's character - The Bride - whose name is finally revealed . Both Vol . 1 and 2 were originally intended and filmed to be one movie . The benefits of this are similar to those in The Lord of Rings trilogy in that there is a real sense of continuity in the scenes and cinematography that might have been absent if this was filmed years later as a sequel .
Once again Tarantino pulls no punches . There are references and tips of the hat to the seveneties , martial arts movies and a dozen TV themes . This is a feast for moviegoers .
If you didn't see Vol . 1 you will be at a disadvantage although there is a small recap at the beginning . Vol . 2 does tone the violence down in favor of more dialogue , especially in the final scenes between John Carradine's character and The Bride .
Darryl Hannah plays California Mountain Snake to perfection as a diabolical homicidal one-eyed killer who turns on her own kind . Also great is Michael Madsen as the loner / loser Budd aka Sidewinder who almost comes across as a sympathetic everyday loser as he waits for his fate . Not to be missed is the chilling chapter ' The Lonely Grave of Paula Schultz ' where Uma Thurman is buried alive and must reach back into past to survive .
Packed with pop culture references , martial arts violence and cinematic flourish Kill Bill Vol . 2 is a great finish to one of the best film stories of the decade and quiet possible , of the last fifty years . Highly recommended .
024 4 If you thought Vol . 1 was good , Vol . 2 is better ! The on-screen death toll is much lower , allowing Tarantino ( and us ) to focus on the Bride's individual battles with the remaining Deadly Vipers and ( of course ) Bill himself . This is Tarantino at his best ; don't miss it !
025 4 I basically forgot about Quentin Tarentino for a number of years . After watching the fantastic Reservoir Dogs years ago , followed by the even better Pulp Fiction a couple of years later , Tarentino seemed to drop off the radar . Occasionally , you would see his mug turn up on one of those television talk shows , or hear about him doing an interview somewhere , but his career as a director seemed to have hit the skids . Then he did Jackie Brown , a film that certainly embodied many of the Tarentino stylistic elements ( wrapped around a still foxy Pam Grier ) , but failed to compare favorably with his two earlier efforts . Fans of the man sat back and waited patiently for his next project , which turned out to be the hyperkinetic Kill Bill Vol . 1 followed by the restrained yet equally entertaining Vol . 2 . These films reaffirm one essential fact about Quentin Tarentino : he's one of us . What I mean by that is that he's a fanboy of the sort of cheap , cheesy cinema pumped out of diverse locations such as Asia and Italy . The Spaghetti western is what I'm talking about , and chop socky potboilers from the great old days of Hong Kong . It sure is nice to see someone pay homage to schlock cinema .
Kill Bill Vol .2 throttles back on the testosterone fueled antics found in the first film . While that might not sound appealing to viewers who got a kick out of seeing The Bride turn the Crazy 88 into sushi , don't worry . Tarentino knows what he's doing . The Bride is still on her mission to slay her former associates , which in this installment means going after Elle Driver ( Daryl Hannah ) , Budd ( Michael Madsen ) , and of course the titular Bill ( David Carradine ) . In the course of the hunt , the film treats us to several amusing flashbacks involving The Bride's training regimen under the terrifying Pai Mei ( Chia Hui Liu ) , one of the highly trained martial artists who helped Bill and his associates become ace assassins . The scenes here are classic young person learns much from the master relationships that we've seen in nearly every martial arts film ever made . Even The Karate Kid employed this technique , minus the general nastiness involved here of course . Anyway , Uma learns how to kick some you know what under the great Pai Mei , including several skills that will of course come in handy later on in the movie . When we aren't watching these flashbacks , we watch in anticipation as The Bride starts the bloodletting with Budd .
While down on his luck and living in a broken down trailer , Budd isn't about to just lie down and accept his fate . He's got a few tricks up his sleeve , primarily burying The Bride alive down at the cemetery , but he also plans on making a boatload of money for defusing this threat for his brother Bill . Enter Elle Driver , the one eyed thug expertly played by Hannah , and a cold betrayal . The Kill Bill films seem to contain a lot of betrayals , don't they ? This one ends in a scene that surprised even me , with Driver incapacitated in Budd's wrecked trailer screaming her head off as The Bride moves on to the final showdown . What happened to poor Daryl Hannah's character must have had a few people in the theater heading for the bathroom . By the time The Bride finally tracks down Bill in Mexico , and also discovers that he has a little secret stashed away there that is sure to upset our heroine , the movie eschews the frenzied action that concluded the first film in favor of a rather sedate series of scenes in which Bill lectures his beloved Beatrix about Superman and the ramifications of that superhero's true identity ( ! ) . It's classic Tarentino dialogue , actually , and fits in rather well with the overall story . In fact , this movie thrives on classic Tarentino dialogue , far more than the first one did .
That's not to say there isn't plenty of violent stuff here . The fight between Elle and The Bride is down and dirty gritty . The training with Pai Mei has a few nasty moments , too . But Kill Bill Vol . 2 is more about filling in the backstory and employing a different style than the one seen in the first film . For example , we better understand why Bill massacred everyone in that church . We also learn more about how Beatrix Kiddo became The Bride . And it becomes fairly obvious quite quickly that something in nearly every scene - - dialogue , a character's movement , an outfit - - comes from another film , usually low budget classics that only Tarentino and a handful of knowledgeable film geeks would pick up on in one viewing . One of the fun things about his movies is trying to place all the references , and it's no less fun to try to do that here . As for the style , Tarentino uses black and white photography , long camera shots , and several other nifty tricks to infuse this film with a lot of great atmosphere . If Tarentino keeps making stylishly entertaining films like the two Kill Bill entries , he might just end up a cult legend himself .
Extras on the disc are surprisingly sparse . The best feature is a deleted scene showing Bill beating the living daylights out of a gang of goons while The Bride watches from the sidelines . A behind the scenes feature and some footage tossed in from the film's premiere aren't all that interesting . Who is willing to bet that a super duper , special edition two or three disc set is in the works even as we speak ? They'll probably call it a Collector's Edition like the Jackie Brown DVD , but it will come down the pike sooner or later . So rent this disc instead of shelling out for the movie twice . But by all means go ahead and see it as soon as possible .
026 4 Of course you have to watch the first movie to understand what's going on in this movie , but I liked this movie much better than the first .
Naturally , it completes the story of the black mamba and you get all the rest of the information in this movie . I felt it had much more of a plot , but still had some awesome fights . As a whole , I think both movies are awesome and worth watching !
027 4 If you like violent characters and a great story , then you should see Kill Bill Vol . 2 for you won't be sorry .
Tarantino is a film genious and after taking a couple years rest , he is back at it with the Kill Bill series which is his best .
Kill Bill Vo . 1 was all about blood and gore , so I was expecting Kill Bill Vol . 2 to show more .
However after seeing Kill Bill Vol . 2 I realized that it was not , the second part of the story is all about developing the plot .
Although violence only occupies a few scenes , it does not make Vol . 2 worse by any means .
The characters are intriguing and their performances stunning , and we finally get a glimpse into what started this story that is so cunning .
Although this movie won't be nominated for any awards it is certainly deserving , I guess that the violence and the premise is a little too unnerving .
So if there is only one movie that you choose to see , I highly recommend that Kill Bill Vol . 2 it should be .
028 4 The thing is , this isn't really a sequal , but it is merely a continuation to what was unfinished in the first half . Kill Bill is all one movie , but based on the difference in content , it could be easily misunderstood that these are two different movies . I gave Kill Bill Volume One five stars , and called it one of the best of the year . I loved this movie , even better than the first part , and it is because of the content . At this point , I've seen this movie at least fifteen times , and everytime it doesn't seize to amaze me . It has some of the most insightful dialogue , the most amazing music , and the terrific acting of not one , not two , but four different people . Out of both of the movies , I found one scene in each that I could have lived without , and that is in four hours of material . Director Quentin Tarrantino has a way with words , and this movie completely proves that .
This part picks up right where the first one left off . Uma Thurman plays The Bride , or the Black Mamba . As the Black Mamba , she was one of the top assassins in the world , and she worked for Bill . She decides to leave the organization , The Deadly Viper Assassation Squad , and Bill is fine with it , until at her wedding , Bill and four other killers come in to crash the wedding . They kill all the quests , and shoot her in the head . She was also pregnant with Bill's child . She is left in a coma , wakes up , and starts her revenge . In the first part she gets to two of the killers , and now there are two left , and then to the big guy . . . Bill . She is faced to defeat Michael Madson , who plays Budd , and Daryll Hannah , who playes Elle Driver . She does face many problems along the way , including being buried alive by Budd , kicked , spit on , attacked , and emotionally hurt , especially by the shocker that takes place in the end .
I could understand why people wouldn't like Kill Bill Volume Two . Alot of people I know hated it compared to the first one . The first does have a bloody action climax , and this one only had about one major fight scene . This movie is very verbal , and it paves the way for much character development . In this movie , we are able to see the remaining killers as people , and a more in dept look at the wedding sequence . It takes about twenty-five minutes to get to The Bride's return , as we are treated to the social and working life of Budd . There is also a classic twenty minute scene showing the training of The Bride , shown in classic homage to the old Japanese movies .
In recap , Kill Bill as one big movie is an great movie experience , but this Vol . 2 works as a great substitute . It may not have the action that the first movie included , but this one is so much more memorable . Quentin Tarrantino also picks the best music to play in his movies , and this one is no exception . It was much more instramental , and it was darkly haunting . David Carradine steals the show in his scenes , and the final act , during his monolouges , he says his words in perfect pronouceation . I personally nominate him for Best Actor next year . Kill Bill Volume Two is one of the best movies of the year , close to the top .
ENJOY !
Rated R for violence , language , and brief drug content .
029 4 Kill Bill Volume 2 has less action and less blood squirting but has a stronger story , drama and more dialogue than Volume 1 . In Volume 2 , Uma Thurman is still on her hunt for Bill ( David Carradine ) . First though she needs to take out his brother Budd ( Michaal Madsen ) and the one eyed Elle Driver ( Daryl Hannah ) .
It's slower with too much dialogue some might think but the dialogue is still always entertaining . Especially the lines delivered by David Carradine and Michael Madeson . Carradine does his best work I think and makes you wonder why he's not in more movies . He definetly gives one of the best supporting performances this year so far . Although Uma wasn't nominated for the first Vol she should be for this one as well . She does some of her best work here as well . The only problem I had is a small one . The fight with the Bride and Bill at the end is way too short and their dialogue lasts longer . Still surprisingly it's not anti-climatic and reminds me sort of the way a Westen show-down would end . Quentin Tarantino shows in this half that he wasn't out to just make kun-fu blood bath . This second half is where all the drama and stronger story can be found .
030 4 This review is from :
Kill Bill - Volume Two ( DVD )
Usually sequels leave a lot to be desired , but this one got it right . Most of the questions left over from Vol 1 were answered , including my favorite , What happened to Elle's eye ? I knew there was a good story there , and I wasn't disappointed .
Since most of the technical praise has already been given by other reviewer's , and much better than I could , let me just say that I thought the actor's , all of them , gave outstanding performance's . It's too bad the Academy doesn't award movies that were just meant to entertain . This is a very good movie , well worth watching . . . but you have to put your serious side in the closet for awhile . Highly recommend this film and Vol 1 .
031 4 Usually sequels leave a lot to be desired , but this one got it right . Most of the questions left over from Vol 1 were answered , including my favorite , What happened to Elle's eye ? I knew there was a good story there , and I wasn't disappointed .
Since most of the technical praise has already been given by other reviewer's , and much better than I could , let me just say that I thought the actor's , all of them , gave outstanding performance's . It's too bad the Academy doesn't award movies that were just meant to entertain . This is a very good movie , well worth watching . . . but you have to put your serious side in the closet for awhile . Highly recommend this film and Vol 1 .
033 4 Excellent sequel to a great story . There is lots of violence in this movie so be warned . But if you can somehow get over that you will be treated to an excellent movie . David Carridine does a wonderful job here too . And Uma is just a pleasure to watch .
035 4 Now , I very rarely agree with the academy . I think David Carridine deserved an Oscar nod ( not necessarily the award itself , but a nod ) for his portrayal of Bill in Kill Bill vol 2 . He created the character perfectly . He had great dialogue , compliments of Quentin , and he knew exactly what to do with it . You feel for him , you get excited when he's on screen . He was , in a word , excellent .
As for everyone else . . . Uma is great as always . I'll admit Darryl Hannah is a bit over-the-top , but I think it works . Micheal Madsen makes you feel kind of sorry for Budd . . . he was the only one who seemed to show real remorse ( anyone else notice he bears an odd resemblance to Robert Rodriguez , who is from Terantino's home planet ? ) .
037 4 Quentin Tarantino is a taste that I have had some difficulty acquiring over the years . I greatly admire his ability to populate a film with twisted , quirky but strangely compelling characters and fill their mouths with the snappiest , most sardonic dialogue this side of Raymond Chandler . Still , his compulsive desire to portray graphic violence on the screen has sometimes left me overwhelmed and sickened , creative though the carnage may be . Tarantino's love of blood was readily apparent in Kill Bill : Volume 1 , a gratuitously brutal homage to Eastern martial arts films that premiered last November . Uma Thurman starred as the Bride , a retired assassin who seeks vengeance when her former colleagues , led by her mentor Bill , murder the assembled guests at her wedding rehearsal and leave her for dead . Thurman did an admirable job of capturing the determination and unbridled rage of an individual obsessed with destroying those who have wronged her , but Tarantino seemed more interested in placing his leading characters into frenetic , over-the top ninja battles than developing their personalities and motivations . Nevertheless , he has redeemed himself with the surprisingly stunning Kill Bill : Volume 2 , a film that is as entertaining and moving as any second chapter ever placed on celluloid .
Tarantino has corrected the lack of character analysis that pervaded the first film by fashioning several powerful flashback sequences that finally reveal the histories , priorities and values of many of the characters . In the first portion of the movie we are taken back to the moments before the wedding massacre , when Bill ( a brilliant David Carradine ) comes to pay a final visit to the woman who abandoned him . There is a sense of wistfulness and nostalgia that pervades the air ( captured beautifully by Tarantino's black and white cinematography ) as Carradine and the Thurman reminisce about old times and discuss current anxieties . It suddenly becomes apparent that the murders to ensure are not crimes of hatred , but symbols of the heartbreak felt by a sociopath who has lost the only woman he ever cared for . Kill Bill has developed into a unique and touching love story , and the passion Bill and the Bride still feel toward each other adds complexity and shading to their continuing battles .
In later scenes , we see more enthralling flashbacks of Bill teaching his young protégé about how the power of vengeance compelled a high priest to kill an entire order of monks and the Bride pushing herself to the limit as she perfects her martial arts abilities under the imperious instruction of Pei Mei ( a great performance from Gordon Lui ) . These sequences finally give the audience a clear idea of the ideals and memories that compel Thurman to kill , and her mission now has an air of nobility and grandeur . It becomes a pleasure to watch the Bride overcome the tawdry traps and dirty tricks of opponents like the gleefully evil Elle Driver ( Daryl Hannah ) and the quietly sadistic Budd ( Michael Masden ) because it is clear that she has achieved a level of mental and physical maturity that they can't even aspire to . The battle sequence between the Bride and Elle stands out in particular as a wonderfully staged and scripted struggle between two women who represent everything the other loathes .
The movie climaxes with a brilliant thirty minute confrontation between Bill and the Bride that surpassed the highest expectations of the audience . A description of these final scenes could not do them justice ; suffice it to say they include the most perceptive and poignant dialogue Tarantino has written since Pulp Fiction , riveting and nuanced work from Carradine and Thurman , and a dramatically and emotionally satisfying conclusion to the saga .
038 4 You have to admire Tarantino for his unabashed willingness to take chances which , when they come off on screen , don't really seem like chances at all , just his natural cinematic prowess .
There are the usual Tarantino trappings that infuse all his movies ; murder , money , characters following his own impudent way of speaking ( you can almost hear Tarantino reciting the club owner's words ) , and Uma Thurman , who looks like hell and fights like it too . There are also the Tarantino surprises , the completely unexpected moments that really grab you whether they are brash ( plucking out Elle's eyeball ) or subtle ( being buried alive ) .
However , the movie is not as energetic or frenetic as the first , certainly not as bloody or violent ( although gruesome things happen ) . Is it a short-coming ?
Yes : The first movie rampaged for two hours and dropped us all off in Anticipation-Land . We visited hand-to-hand combat in someone's suburban house , a very bright-yellow truck , Japan's nightspots and ancient settings , and were treated to an introduction of Anime ( where the movie really gets its inspiration ) . Everything happens briskly , the action is almost , almost wall-to-wall , and the tone is basically , Here I Come .
No : Kill Bill 2 slows things down . It's almost as if Black Mamba has become more thoughtful about her revenge , and takes more time to contemplate its significance . One such scene is her and Bill ( when they weren't so hostile ) in the desert talking about Pai-Mei , the Shaolin master who would instruct Thurman's character . It's a quiet scene , moody , almost a whisper lost in the commotion surrounding it ; and nowhere would it fit in Kill Bill 1 .
Perhaps this is why the movies were split up , because Tarantino reached a certain point in Volume 1 and said , Now begins a different kind of movie , still named Kill Bill , but a shade quieter . Not to say that the movie is slow ; but I did get bored in spots , whereas in Kill Bill 1 I was always at least partially riveted .
The ending is spectacularly done , even if it is longer than it needs to be . All you need to know about the Black Mamba / Bill face-off is that neither one of them leaves their seat .
So now that these two movies are out , they will go down as one of Tarantino's best , and it is certainly his best since Pulp Fiction . To fans of anime and kung-fu movies it's the movie they've been waiting for . To fans of Tarantino , you might be thrilled , or slightly miffed . To other movie-makers , you'll be jealous . Finally , to film snobs like myself , it'll make a nice weekender viewing .
039 4 This review is from :
Kill Bill - Volume Two ( DVD )
Kill Bill Vol . 2 is a movie that will surprise you . As a big fan of 2003 ' s Vol . 1 , I was eager to see the final chapters of the total film . After the film began , I was pretty much in complete shock during the entire viewing . As fast , kenetic , and high energy as Vol . 1 is , Vol . 2 slows down the pace enourmously . Tarantino's decision to decelerate the second half of his Kill Bill opus was both necessary , and masterful . At the end of Vol . 1 , the audience learns that The Bride's ( Uma Thurman ) daughter is still alive , while The Bride has believed her to never have been born . This is a clever device which serves two purposes : It gives the audience a terrific cliff-hanger at the end of Vol . 1 , but also sets an appropriate pace for Vol . 2 . Not only do we now that The Bride is on a collision course to finding out the truth about her daughter , but that there's no way she can prepare for said revelation . However , Tarantino brilliantly gets both the audience and The Bride ready for this confrontation through a more dramatic and heart-felt Vol . 2 of his epic . By slowing the pace and theming of his second film , most of which takes place in the barren desert of the South-West United States as opposed to frenetic Tokyo , Japan of Vol . 1 , Tarantino forces The Bride , relax and take time to realize the path of revenge that she has chosen . In the end , it's an astonishing piece .
040 4 Kill Bill Vol . 2 is a movie that will surprise you . As a big fan of 2003 ' s Vol . 1 , I was eager to see the final chapters of the total film . After the film began , I was pretty much in complete shock during the entire viewing . As fast , kenetic , and high energy as Vol . 1 is , Vol . 2 slows down the pace enourmously . Tarantino's decision to decelerate the second half of his Kill Bill opus was both necessary , and masterful . At the end of Vol . 1 , the audience learns that The Bride's ( Uma Thurman ) daughter is still alive , while The Bride has believed her to never have been born . This is a clever device which serves two purposes : It gives the audience a terrific cliff-hanger at the end of Vol . 1 , but also sets an appropriate pace for Vol . 2 . Not only do we now that The Bride is on a collision course to finding out the truth about her daughter , but that there's no way she can prepare for said revelation . However , Tarantino brilliantly gets both the audience and The Bride ready for this confrontation through a more dramatic and heart-felt Vol . 2 of his epic . By slowing the pace and theming of his second film , most of which takes place in the barren desert of the South-West United States as opposed to frenetic Tokyo , Japan of Vol . 1 , Tarantino forces The Bride , relax and take time to realize the path of revenge that she has chosen . In the end , it's an astonishing piece .
041 4 The second half of the Kill Bill movies uses less violence than the first , and is more character driven than the first . Many questions are cleared up regarding how the chapel massacre came to pass and why Bill did what he did . In answering those questions , we get a sense of how evil Bill is and how richly he diserves his fate . The most violent part is during the showdown between the Bride and the one-eyed blonde which has got to be one of the most exiting fight scenes that I have seen this year .
I say it's better with the first one , but one could get away with seeing vol . 2 without the first seeing Vol . 1 , but I would recommend seeing both .
042 4 I don't buy the conceit that Volume 1 is Tarantino's eastern and Volume 2 is his western despite a predominately western setting and the co-opting of Ennio Morricone scores from Sergio Leone's westerns . That said , this is a great movie . Tarantino is still exploring the eastern themes that he did in Volume 1 yet he is also exploring more mature character relationships that he did in my personal favorite film of his , Jackie Brown .
The likelihood is that Uma Thurman's multilayered performance ( one moment she's a revenge-bent killer , the next a nurturing mother ) will be overlooked at Oscar time because this film will probably be viewed in highbrow circles as a genre film . David Carradine also gives an excellent performance here . You can almost sympathize with his rationalization for wanting Thurman's Beatrix dead for walking out on him . After all , even killers can get a broken heart . Not to be overlooked is Michael Madsen's performance as Budd , Bill's assassin brother turned drunken bouncer . Madsen imbues this character with such pathos that we even like him despite him trying to bury Thurman alive . The last chapter , where Thurman confronts Carradine seems to labor at times , however , Carradine's dissertation on the Superman myth may touch on the primary theme here . We are who we are even if we try to escape into an alter-ego . This may be Tarantino's way of saying that his films may be looked down on because they seem to glorify violence , even if their done stylishly . However , Tarantino makes no apologies for making these films because they contain themes that interest him . On a final note , the DVD contains a deleted scene that's pretty good . I can see why it wasn't included in the theatrical cut because it doesn't seem to fit into the basic structure of the film but it should be checked out .
043 4 First of all , understand that I am not reviewing the DVD , as it has not yet been released . I saw this film in the Good Old movie theatre , right on the second row . KB2 is definitely a different animal from KB1 , as the martial arts action is not as predominant ( except for a few key scenes ) , and there is more character development . A large chunk of the film concerns the back-story , or what happened prior to the beginning of KB1 . Tarrantino flips back and forth in time , but this never slows the flow of the basic plotline . The episode featuring Michael Madsen is by far the most entertaining , and his comeuppance is quite grisly indeed . Dialogue is superb and oftentimes hilarious , with Gordon Liu getting off some really choice lines ; in fact , he is one of the best things about this film . Don't be put off by some reviewers , who have stated that the film is boring , compared to KB1 . This is like comparing apples and oranges ( they both taste good ) . All Tarrantino fans should love this film , it delivers all of his trademark style and eccentricities .
044 4 . . . And I loved the first volume .
A few people seem to be a little disappointed that this wasn't as violent as Volume 1 . There was hardly any blood ! And Bill's death sucked ! One star ! Jeez . . . you people sound like college drunks . Well , if you guys were such big fans of the original , you surely must have known that Budd , Elle and Bill ( three remaining targets ) didn't have an army of minions in black suits for the Bride to waste like O-Ren did in Volume 1 , so exactly how much violence were you expecting ? Did you want 88 cowboys on horses to square off with Thurman after she showed up at Budd's trailer ? Frankly , I'm pleasantly suprised that Tarantino took such a character-driven turn for the second installment . The guy's made some excellent films in the past , but he's really maturing as a director / writer ; it's evident in this film .
I hardly go to the movies anymore ; after being spoiled with DVD , it's almost unbearable to go catch a film , only have my theater-going experience ruined by people who won't shut up and that guy in the back row with the loud cell phone . Regardless , I couldn't wait until this DVD was released . I had to see it as soon as possible . My expectations were EXTREMELY high . And those expectations were met .
Alright , alright . . . as far as the violence ( again ) goes , I'll bite : Elle's fate was probably the best in the series .
HIGHLY recommended . Can't wait until the complete , uncensored series is released in one package with all the bells and whistles similar to the excellent Pulp Fiction and Jackie Brown DVD's .
045 4 Even though vol . 2 is the continued second half of vol . 1 , the two movies don't match up in terms of style . Where vol . 1 is action-packed and over-the-top gory , vol . 2 is restrained , polite , and even a little touching . I was disappointed with the lack of action that vol . 1 so clearly delivered as well as with the revelation of the Bride's name ; it added nothing to the story or her character , and I wanted to laugh at their choice of moniker .
Darryl Hannah and Uma Thurman and the Pai Wei-man , however , give amazing performances .
I say don't expect the blood , guts , and violence of the first film , and you might appreciate it more than I did .
046 4 The duo is complete and I am satisfied . Tarantino's second instalment in the Kill Bill saga was all to similar , yet all to unique compared to the first . The basic execution and cinematic style is completely the same , yet Kill Bill , Volume 2 has an entirely different feel from its predecessor . I believe the second film has surpassed the first in every way . The acting is better ( since the characters are actually familiar and relatable ) , the fight scenes are funnnier and more entertaining , and the finale is quite impressive . Quentin Tarantino is an incredible adition to the film industry and I hope that audiences continue to give this unique and important voice their undivided attention for years to come !
047 4 More subdued , less bloody and with a personal approach to the storytelling , Kill Bill : Volume 2 is an outstanding and highly respectable companion to the first installment , Kill Bill , Volume 1 that for me is a true and original classic . But with that said , Kill Bill : Volume 2 , is a classic in its own right . It's a continuing story shown and told from a different viewpoint . In addition , the movie is effectively played out with imagination , visionary genius and amazing performances .
The Bride ( Uma Thurman ) hunts down the last three on her to-do-list , Budd ( Michael Madsen ) , Elle Driver ( Daryl Hannah ) and Bill ( David Carradine ) , the man whose face and voice is a permanent reminder of her past , present and potential future .
In Kill Bill : Volume 2 , we're introduced to Pai Mei ( Gordon Liu ) a master of the martial arts , a man of wisdom , power and the only one who knows the secret of successfully carrying out the 5 point palm exploding heart technique and the one who trained Beatrix Kiddo before she became The Bride .
Although Budd , Elle and Bill want The Bride dead , they all have a deep-rooted respect , and for Bill , it's about the love he lost . If The Bride is going out , she's going out in fashion . For The Bride is the world's best assassin and her title should be a reflection of how her death is going to be played out , by whomever lays claim to her demise .
Did The Bride kill Bill and what ending manifested itself through all the horrid and hellish violence and deceit ? You'll find out in Quentin Tarantino's illustrious homage to martial arts and the continuing quest of one woman's mission to seek revenge on those who did her so very , very wrong . Kill Bill : Volume 2 will leave you with the insight of how it began and why it ended the way it did . Although , with that said , my only gripe would have to be with the ending . With such a monster house of originality and creativity , it just looked too weak for me to become inspired by it .
Still eluding psychotic charm , and a heating-em-up , sizzle brain of freakiness was Daryl Hannah's character Elle Driver . She's so hypnotic to watch , I just can't seem to find myself resisting her evil tendencies and oddness . Like the original , there were many poignant , articulately choreographed scenes and memorable characters . Gordon Liu is another , with his character of Pai Mei just reeking in flamboyant campy humor and stylish personality .
DVD extras include deleted scene , a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Kill Bill : Volume 2 featuring Quentin Tarantino , Kill Bill : Volume 2 premiere Chingon performance ( which was fantastic ! ) , Widescreen ( 2.35 : 1 ) - enhanced for 16x9 televisions , Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound , DTS 5.1 digital surround sound , French language track , Chinese , Japanese , Korean and Spanish subtitles .
Kill Bill : Volume 2 is tireless with its absorbing characters , fascinating dialogue , brilliant music , masterful directing and story telling .
048 4 There's 2 distinct themes when it comes down to comparing Vol 1 and Vol 2 : Volume 1 was more influenced by japanese action and grindhouse cinema , whereas Volume 2 is more spaghetti western based . Volume 1 also didn't have any shred of character development : the Bride ripped and sliced her way through everyone without even offering some kind of connection for the audience . All of that has been dumped here , more dialogue heavy with a few action thrown in . Oh what a film these could've been .
Having sliced through 2 assassins in the first one , she's now onto the next 2 : Budd , the brother of the titular character and the Bride's main target and Elle Driver , which is the more jealous underachieving side to the Bride . On her way to get Budd , something goes awry and she gets buried alive with us with her . And a bunch of stuff happens until finally we get to her confrontation with Bill .
Her confrontation isn't even a fight per se . It's like an exercise routine in the span of 8 seconds . Instead they talk and talk and reminisce about the troubled old days . There's many parts in the film that could've clearly been cut such as the suspense killing monologue Uma delivers at the very start of the film since she's telling us she just killed all the assassins and has one left . The recent Foo Fighters double cd reminds me of Kill Bill's both halves : chop them and make them one thing and you'd have an awesome movie . Instead we have 2 movies with great parts but not satisfying wholes .
David Carradine plays probably one of the better comebacks in film so far as Bill , a want to hate him but can't character who shows wisdom and a calm demeanor despite being , as he puts it , a murdering b * stard . One scene has him threatening to shoot someone in the kneecap ( arguably the 2nd most painful place to get shot in , after the stomach ) , fires a round into some fruit and laughs dismissing it in a kind of I'm just having fun attitude .
The others are good although I'm kind of polarized on Uma : she has the physicality of the role but there's something . . . off ? Linda Hamilton in Terminator 2 or Will Smith in Ali looked physically fit while still maintaining their performances , here she looks almost awkward . Of course the fan favorite was Gordon Liu ( Johnny Mo in the kato mask in Volume 1 ) as Pei Mei , the cruel but incredibly skillful master who likes to stroke his beard a bit too often .
As with Volume 1 , there's a degree of using the genres in a kind of copying way , as if they're paying homage to that style with the only intention of paying homage . Witness the fast zooms when Bride gets her training or the exaggerated whooshing sound when all she does is shake her head .
Everything works fine until she disposes of the last assassin . Then she gets whereabouts of Bill from a mexican , in another duel role with Michael Parks , who played the sheriff in Volume 1 . After that the film starts to decompress , she reaches Bill and it just sputters .
Guess we'll have to wait for the Ultra Mega Rare ( I love coming up with these ) Edition with the film edited into one long ( I'm talking at least 4 hours ) or one awesome 2 and a half film . But so far , there's a good film here hiding .
049 4 The burial ; The Bride discovering she's pregnant ( flashback ) ; the intense , heavy , short-lived confrontation between The Bride and Budd ; the Bride vs Elle ; . . . but I'll try my best to be sweet ( The Bride's wedding rehearsal ) ; Bill and The Bride meet again ; the final confrontation : this is the list of great scenes from Quentin Tarantino's epic conclusion to the Kill Bill series ( and I assure you there are a thousand more moments and surely a few sequences that slipped my mind ) . The fact that each and every sequence is filmed with the dexterity and wisdom of a great film maker only elevates the film to a higher status . To accompany each scene - - in turn making them that much more memorable and unique - - are brilliant , detailed character creations / thriving performances from each lead actor . At the top of this list are Uma Thurman and David Carradine , both of which deserve Oscar nominations for their work here . In the end , Kill Bill , Volume 2 is so original within its homage , so memorable despite the connecting tissues that tend to drag , so well-acted and deepened by great actors , that to resist its culminating emotional impact becomes an impossibility . See this . You will not be sorry , but be sure to keep in mind that Volume 2 is but the second half of one whole . Together , volumes 1 and 2 make a masterpiece , fully balanced and like nothing you've ever witnessed before ; it is a package of cultural and cinematic references woven together into something that will itself be referenced as its own in the future , thanks to Tarantino's amazing skill and knowledge of what makes the movies a passionate art .
050 4 Without the second part , the story stays in random pieces .
The first one find it's drama on this one .
Without the second half , one doesn't understand the fury going on in the first part . It's a must see !
052 4 The story of Kill Bill blends all elements of great storytelling and moviemaking into an original and enthralling emotional roller coaster that doesn't let go and can be almost draining . At least , that is what I have found . It creates ' catharsis ' ( involves the audience through feelings of fear and pity ) ! Indeed , it's not a movie you can just watch at any old moment , or too soon again afterward , or view lightly . And I can't put on Volume 1 without seeing it through to completion within a short time . It takes a very special kind of film to have this sort of effect on me personally , and I find these two halves of a whole film to be just the right type ; therefore I heartily recommend them to all who consider watching it but haven't yet . It's heavy , high-powered , charged , and flows from one monumental scene to another almost without consideration for the viewer . And superb quotes ? There are too many to count . All in all , utterly brilliant .
054 4 Many people seem to prefer Kill Bill Volume 1 over this , the second part . I'm of two minds about this . First , as a fan of character and story over extreme violence , I personally found much more meat to chew on in Volume 2 . Second , and more importantly , I think it's kind of silly to separate the two films , as neither one is complete without the other . Tarantino intended them as a single story , and I watched them as a single story , one right after the other . If at all possible , I recommend seeing them both in one sitting to fully appreciate them . It may not be high art or anything , but Kill Bill as a whole is representative of good entertainment and good storytelling .
Tarantino weaves quite a story in Kill Bill , adopting his usual technique of starting somewhere in the middle , then jumping the audience forward and back in time to fill in the gaps . It is both intricate and intriguing , and it stands out as a high-water mark in some ways for Tarantino , while maintaining much of what his diehard fans seem to love him for .
In terms of story , Kill Bill is Tarantino's best work since Reservoir Dogs ( still my personal favorite in his brief but notable body of work ) . Tarantino keeps it moving at a brisk pace , rarely letting exposition slow down the action , but there is a lot of story here to tell . Each character gets their story told in turn , and the audience can quickly see how each individual character's story ties into the Bride's story , which is the main thrust of the film . Her tale of revenge against those who tried to kill her ( and , obviously , failed ) leads down a twisting path , drawing the audience deeper and deeper into the lives and motivations of everyone . The main theme of the film seemed to be summed up in the observation that the road to revenge leads through a thick forest , and it is often very easy to get distracted from the path .
Certainly , Volume 2 moves a bit more slowly then Volume 1 did . The first film is probably most memorable for a lengthy fight scene in which the Bride battles the Crazy 88 , a Yakuza organization which , while it doesn't actually have 88 members , definitely has at least 50 , and the Bride fights them all at once . Volume 2 has nothing like this . In this second part , there is a great deal of dialogue peppered with quick flashes of violence , but the dialogue is delivered with Tarantino's usual flair for natural speech and the violence is both more shocking and more meaningful as a result . Where the long fight scenes just started to wear thin in Volume 1 , Volume 2 kept them fresh while also keeping the story moving briskly .
Perhaps the most memorable scene in Volume 2 came near the end of it , when Tarantino genuinely surprised me with a development I really didn't expect . To give it away here would be to ruin some of the fun for a virgin viewer , but suffice it to say that some expectations I had about several of the characters were flipped completely around in the space of a few seconds near the end . A nice touch , that , and one I hadn't seen Tarantino pull off before .
Quentin Tarantino seems to enjoy making genre movies but twisting the meaning of the genre , and he clearly has enough of an understanding for the genres he works in to manipulate them cleverly . His attention , in Kill Bill , to the samurai fighter movie is both homage and elevation of the genre . He pays it tribute by mirroring many of its techniques , and he makes it better by adding in some excellent dialogue and a well-crafted story .
Volume 2 begins with an unfortunate synopsis of the first movie , which seemed out of step with the rest of the movie as a whole and really seemed forced in ( as I suspect it was ) . Once this is over , though , it picks up quickly from where Volume 1 left off .
Still , Tarantino fans should be ( and , if you read other reviews , clearly are ) well-pleased by what they find in Kill Bill . His ear for dialogue , his skill with a complex story , and his somewhat extreme sensibilities are all in strong evidence here . What I think is really good about Kill Bill is that even those who haven't liked Tarantino in the past may find something of value in this movie . If you can get past the occasional ( OK , frequent ) fountain of blood jetting from a combatant's severed limb and let yourself get into the story , you're in for a pretty fun ride .
Two other quick comments before closing . Tarantino often inserts himself as an actor in his own movies . He's usually not bad , but I was glad to see that he wasn't in this one . It was the better for his staying behind the camera . And leading off the film by quoting the old Klingon proverb , Revenge is a dish best served cold - - that was simply priceless . Say what you will about Tarantino , but he does know his audience well .
055 4 As most movie lovers I have a pre-induced prejudice against sequels , but in this case KB II can't be regarded as a sequel , but the ending to the saga . The greatest part of breaking up the movie in two parts is that Tarentino could accomplish a considerable change in style , without creating a ' break ' in the movie . The casting of Carradine in the part of Bill added that extra touch to the movie , especially in scenes such as the ' super hero ' discussion . Michael Madsen's character also broke away from the slick-moving , kung-fu inspired characters of the other members of the deadly viper assassination squad . All in all it is one of the greatest movies ever made .
056 4 The continuation of Kill Bill : Vol . 1 begins with a quick recap that clarifies the Bride's ( Uma Thurman ) vengeful journey . The Bride was mercilessly executed by her former boss Bill ( David Carradine ) and his associates at her wedding rehearsal as she tried to escape her violent past as a hired killer . However , she survived and is now seeking those who drew the first blood . This leads the story into several flashbacks where the Bride recollects her past which explains all parties reasons for violence . These flashbacks fragments the storyline , yet each memory fills a void in the story as the characters are illustriously described on the silver screen .
Tarantino maintains the visually brilliant experience that he initiated in Kill Bill : Vol . 1 where he uses cinematic nostalgia from different film genres . The camerawork is flawless as it enhances the moment of each scene in an artistic as well as suitable manner . In addition , Tarantino digs deeper into human values and morals as they conflict with character's backgrounds and traditions as the Bride seeks her vengeance . The only thing that Tarantino does not improve is his score selection as it was superior in Kill Bill : Vol . 1 . Nonetheless , Kill Bill : Vol . 2 offers a violently alluring cinematic experience that has deep intrigues and much to ponder for a wide range of viewers .
057 4 More Dialogue and less action-packed than Vol . 1 , Kill Bill Vol . 2 , nevertheless , delivers the goods for those expecting a satisfying conclusion to this two-parter . Oh yeah , now this is fun movie watching . After the hilariously gorey Kill Bill 1 , how on earth do you expect a sequel ( which is actually just the 2nd part of the film ) to top that ? Why add some drama , create and atmosphere of intrigue and suspense , even some mystery , and a great eye gouging scene ! I loved Kill Bill Vol .1 I mean I felt like I was watching a live action Anime ! My sister happens to be an anime freak ( I only claim to liking the Drangonball series ) and she agreed that it was like an anime . Maybe that's why it is so , shall we say , unique . It takes the classic revenge story and puts a new twist on it , and thus Tarontino keeps his audience guessing thorugh the whole thing . The second and final volume in Quentin Tarantino's KILL BILL series is another stylish , sprawling masterwork . VOLUME 2 picks up where the first film left off , as The Bride resumes her quest to track down her former mentor , Bill and exact revenge . But before she gets to Bill , she must first take out the remaining minions who helped to slaughter her best friends and fiancé . First up is Budd a quiet but dangerous country boy who lives in a trailer . Next is Elle Driver a one-eyed vixen who doesn't appear to have a heart - - or a conscience . As The Bride makes her way closer to Bill , scenes from her past are revisited , including her training with the angry and brutal Pai Mei . Finally , The Bride locates her man , sparking a truly unforgettable confrontation . In contrast to the nearly dialogue-free first volume , VOLUME 2 is filled with extended conversations that bring the story full circle . Watch both Kill Bill's back to back and you'll have one entertaining evening awaiting you . Sometimes 5 stars just isn't enough .
058 4 The outcome of this movie is known to all before they see the movie . The bride will get her revenge and ` Kill Bill ' . As in many Alfred Hitchcock movies , the suspense is not in the outcome , but how we get there . And , in this movie , the itinerary is well worth the trip . Unfortunately , this means I have to be very circumspect in what I say to avoid giving away any of the key plot points .
I've never thought critically about any of Quentin Tarantino's earlier films , so I'm not sure whether this is true of all his movies or just this one , but I get the very strong impression that Tarantino's main directoral influences are Sergio Leone and Sam Peckinpah , with a seasoning of Akira Kurasawa thrown in for good measure . There are long shots with no dialogue which strongly remind me of similar atmosphere shots in ` Once Upon a Time in the West ' . Also , like Peckinpah in ` The Wild Bunch ' , there is a strong sense of inevitability in the fate of the band of outlaws lead by William Holden and Earnest Borgnine , and dialogue and scenes are taut with the tension of waiting to see how things will all play out .
I sensed the influence of Leone as I was watching the film , and this was confirmed in a big way when I saw that several pieces of music by Enno Morricone for ` A Fistful of Dollars ' was used in the sound track . This confirms my sense that Tarantino shares with Stanley Kubrick and Woody Allan a great talent for borrowing music from other contexts and using it to good advantage in his movies . I was strongly reminded of scenes from the very 1960 ' s feature length documentary ` Mondo Cane ' in one scene of ` Kill Bill ' , which was no surprise at all when I saw that a piece of music was borrowed from that 40 year old movie for the scene . I really wonder if Tarantino was just lucky with one audience member , or whether he was really being that subtle in evoking a movie obscure to about 80% of his audience .
It has been said in many reviews that the casting of David Carradine as Bill was a stroke of genius , bringing to mind his long run as a character in the TV series ` Kung Fu ' . I will add that Carradine does very well by the part even without that historical connection . All of the other actors execute their parts equally well , with a special kudo to Darryl Hannah for playing a really quirky scene where a large part of her monologue is read from hand-printed notes neatly written in a 3 by 5 inch spiral bound notebook . This piece of business is a small taste of the constantly different way of doing things that Tarantino pulls off better than I have ever seen it done . He does things which , if other directors try it , they take short cuts , and the business falls flat on its face . Tarantino takes no short cuts with important business . The scene between Hannah and Michael Madsen echos the overall course of the whole movie . You are certain that Hannah's character will double cross ` Bud ' , Bill's brother played by Madsen , but you don't have a clue how she will do it . Her method , when revealed , suddenly seems incredibly obvious in the context of the movie .
Unlike the final episode of ` The Lord of the Rings ' , which wraps up a story spanning three movies , ` Kill Bill Volume 2 ' can be viewed with little or no loss if you did not see ` Kill Bill Volume 1 ' ; however , one of the things which makes it so much better a movie than Volume 1 is the fact that the central plot of the two movies is resolved , and resolved with much less over the top martial arts scenes than in the first part .
` Kill Bill Volume 2 ' is as good or better than any of his other movies , yet , it may not be as enjoyable to watch as ` Pulp Fiction ' . Key situations are equally as taut , but in spite of the ` graphic novel ' inspiration behind ` Kill Bill ' , there is none of the ` this is really all make believe ' sense you have while watching ` Pulp Fiction ' . The title , after all , does give away the fact that this is storytelling . The grimness and ` film noir ' feeling in ` Kill Bill ' is accentuated by the odd red-green emphasis in the color print which I always associate with the filming of ` The Matrix ' . It adds to the brooding atmosphere of the movie , but I still don't like it . The recollection scenes in plain black and white are almost a relief to watch . It adds to the movie , but I could do without it .
Like ` Reservoir Dogs ' and ` Pulp Fiction ' , the time line jumps around between the main plot line and flashbacks , but every flashback is very cleverly tied into the explanation of a key plot point . While the technique gives me headaches in the hands of some directors , Tarantino has honed it to a fine edge .
A must see movie if you like Tarantino or Peckinpah or Kurasawa or film noir . There is a lot less blood and violence than in Part I , so there may actually be less to put off squeamish viewers .
059 4 Kill Bill Volume 2 picks up right after volume 1 ends , and so far the Black Mamba has 3 more people on her death list . After watching volume 1 , I was amazed at the level of blood and overly exaggerated violence and I expected the same here . Forget that - - volume 2 is very different from the first in that the focus is not on the blood and fighting , but on the story as it nears the great climax between the Bride and Bill . I was not disappointed in the difference but I was amazed as much with this volume because of how well it was put together . Questions arising from volume 1 are answered here as we see things such as what led to the massacre at the wedding chapel . Similarly , loose ends from the first volume are cleared up here . At the start , Uma is on her way to find Bill , and then in Tarantino fashion we get to see the events leading up to that point . Anyone who has seen V .1 must see this movie . For those who enjoy the violence the most you may be a little letdown from this movie . I can't imagine that though since it does so much to complete the story . Don't worry though , there is plenty of action and fighting so don't get the idea that Tarantino gets soft on this part . Overall I think most people will be more than satisfied with the second part of Kill Bill .
Video and sound quality are very good on this release , with the obvious negative being a lack of extras . What is here is okay , but supposedly there is a lot more that might turn up on a better edition in the future . I will buy that version when it hits , but until then this is a nice dvd to own for fans of action / Tarantino movies or for anyone looking to see a great movie .
060 4 I've watched most of Quentin Tarantino's movies , and while they're all at least good , even great , each seemed to be missing something for me , just one crucial thing that I couldn't put my finger on , and I'd always rate them 4 out of 5 in my mind . I did not expect this to be the Tarantino film that I could rate a solid 5 .
Taking a turn from the non-stop action of volume 1 , volume 2 takes a slower , more dramatic , and ultimately superior pace to the first half of the story . The little action there is is great , but the tension and drama are what drive the film . It begins with an ingenious black and white re-cap of the El Paso Massacre showing the events just before the assault began and moving through the final steps of the Bride's revenge , taking her through Sidewinder , California Mountain Snake , and finally Bill . The action is less goofy and more intense , serving to support the drama rather than star on its own .
Performances are excellent all around , with David Carradine doing a phenomonemal job as Bill . Michael Madsen , great as ever , play Sidewinder , while Daryl Hannah is a creepier villain than one would think possible of her . And of course , Uma Thurman does a great job as the Bride , going through all her emotional distresses and rewards .
The cinematography is not as ambitious as Tarantino usually makes it . There are some great camera angles / movements and the black and white was great in how sharp it is , but Tarantino seemed less gutsy than in his past films . I don't think this hurt the movie at all , but it's something to notice . The soundtrack isn't as memorable , but like the down-played action , it serves the film well .
As with the previous DVD , this one is sparse , though not entirely bare-bones . There's a Deleted Scene this time , one which probably should have been left in the film . It's hokey , but so is the sequence it's meant to be in the middle of , and I think it would have served the movie well to be part of it .
Overall , I'd have to say that I enjoyed this above the other Tarantino movies . Performances were driven and realistic , while the dramatic tension is more than well done , particularly during the last segment of the movie . There couldn't have been a finer conclusion to this enormous cinematic effort .
061 4 Yes , there's less action ; yes , there's more talking .
I was actually a little worried that Vol . II wouldn't be on par with the first , as I heard - and rightly so - that this was much more of a talkative movie . Boy , was I wrong . I can't say whether I like Vol . I or II the best , but together they are just perfect ! !
I especially liked the fact that there were lots of scenes that were leading to a big showdown , and then - with a quick twist - they end ! No biggies ! ! No jumping-flying-cartwheeling stuff .
Some people , I see , were especially disappointed by the ending ; however , I think it was SO fitting , symbolic and rather beautiful in a mysterious way
! ! ! HERE COMES THE SPOILER ! ! ! STOP HERE IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT ! ! !
that Bill actually dies of a broken heart .
I wouldn't go as far as to say , that if you didn't like the first one , you should give this one a try ; but if you did , there's nooooo way around this one ! !
Bring on Vol . III , please
062 4 Of course , in the process of viewing this review you should know that the first film involved the elimination of two ex-partners of the lead , The Bride . Obviously , this is a continuation of said film , and now to what I'll consider the review portion .
Uma Thurman plays a vengeful woman who seeks to destuction of those who betrayed her and attempted to murder her . She lived , but many of those she knew and loved were killed , and after reviving from a coma she seeks revenge . Having killed two of five on her list , she continues forth in a film that would appear almost completely different from the other volume . More dialogue driven , the story becomes thickened with intriguing comments and unravelling of small details and comparisons that keep our minds attached , as we slowly develope the awareness of where things head . Beyond this would ruin the story , so I'll put this briefly . Through moments of wonder , action , and anticipation , Quentin Tarrintino never lets us go by keeping us glued to the story in ways it would appear only he could achieve . A fabulous film , not to be seen before volume one of course , that almost supercedes its predecessor in an sheer fantastic story that never stops poking at the mere concept of entertainment . Check it out , I can practically quarantee your satifaction . Thanks for reading .
063 4 Matt Putnam , in his Spotlight Review , writes :
If you're a fan of volume 1 then you should be more then satisfied .
Apparently , most people here agree with him . . . but , I don't .
Kill Bill Vol . 2 is very different than Kill Bill Vol . 1 .
Vol 2 , continuing the Bride's quest for revenge , is a much tamer , subdued and introspective film than the gaudy comic richness of Vol 1 . The fight sequences are smaller and more realistic ( though they still aren't realistic by any means ) than in the first film ; this movie is more about fleshing out the characters and their motivations and emotions . The Bride even gets a name .
And , as they say , your mileage may vary . Me ? I preferred the styles in Volume 1 . I liked the cheesy , over-the-top 70s homage , the siren-like announcements of fights ( used once here , then discarded ) and the anime sequence . There is one sequence in Vol 2 . which I find very clever - - the training with Kung Fu legend Pei Mei , which is straight out parody - - but overall , Vol 2 . is simply slower and longer than Vol 1 .
But , like I say : other people will really like this movie , and many will even prefer it to Vol 1 . It all depends on your taste , going in .
Despite my prefering the first part , I take comfort in the thought that these two movies kind of represent an artist's palette . Over the course of the two films , Tarantino has experimented and experimented in film genre and style , and I can only guess that these experiences will help him to develop his voice and grow in the future . In short , the kid's still learning , and I think that means that he's only going to get better , which is pretty incredible when you consider that he's already one of the best directors we have .
It is very different than Vol . 1 , and I personally wasn't completely satisfied , but still an intriguing film . Three stars .
064 4 In this day and age when sequels like ` Matrix Reloaded ' and such pollute our cinemas and ruin the glory of their predecessors I am pleased to have found a sequel worthy of its name . ` Kill Bill Vol . 2 ' is really less a sequel and more a continuation , but call it what you may , it still works .
Picking up where ` Vol . 1 ' left off we have The Bride ( Thurman ) exacting her revenge against the men and women that killed her friends and family , but there's a twist . The unborn child she thought was murdered was in fact preserved . The question remains that will her child with Bill change her plans to kill him ?
Filled with brilliant acting on all counts , Daryl Hannah and David Carradine reprising their roles as Elle and Bill , each of them doing brilliantly to bring the right amount of emotion and character to their roles , this movie is raised from action blockbuster status to Oscar caliber . My favorite performance though is from Michael Madsen who plays Budd ; a man who knows what they've done is wrong but isn't prepared to die for it .
This film is somewhat slower than the first and focuses more on The Bride's emotional battles than her physical ones . That doesn't by any means take away from the enjoyment received from watching this masterpiece . A perfect companion to the first film , Tarantino and Thurman deliver a great film that will be remembered as classic for a long time to come .
066 4 The Bride ( Uma Thurman ) has exterminated 2 deadly cockroaches and has 3 more to go known only as Elle Driver ( Daryl Hannah ) , Budd ( Michael Madsen ) and of course , former boss Bill ( David Carradine ) . She sometimes gets memories of being taught by the selfish and powerful Chinese kung-fu master Pai Mei ( Gordon Liu ) and searches for her long lost daughter whom has been seperated from her womb for 4 years leading up to a battle between the man who nearly killed her 4 years ago and herself .
Simply excellent second part of a 2 - part cinematic novel done thoughtfully by masterful filmmaker Quentin Tarantino as he brings his trademark style of movies , action , snappy dialog and humor in many successful ways but less gory than it's precessor .
The DVD just like the first movie's DVD has a few extras like Deleted scene , behind the scenes of KB vol . 2 and a look at the premire of KB Vol . 2 with a performance by Robert Rodriguez's CHINGON band and it's picture & Sound are just crystal clear .
Add this movie with part 1 to your DVD collection if your a fan of action and cinema itself .
067 4 Good Tarantino , with his typically well-written dialogue & sleek , integrated action content .
The Bride ( Uma Thurman ) is Back ; we see her struggle continues , both inner and outward . We get to better know of her motivations , who she is , and of her very tangled relationship to Bill .
What a mixed pot of experiences ! I found the film often very funny ; the humor can be juxtaposed with grave situations , or sheer poignancy . Often the film-maker lets it ride on the playfully surreal absurdity of the characters ' interaction ; those scenes are the best .
This is Tarantino's world ; don't try to steer the wheel , just go with it .
068 4 While I still marvel at the bloody , violent , chop-socky approach Tarantino took in Vol .1 , the sprawling , sun-blessed , easily paced and beautifully acted Vol .2 is the perfect followup . No , the body count isn't as high in this second half , no the squirting geysers of blood aren't present this time around and yes , the dialouge ( A Tarantino hallmark ) is a dominant factor this time around , and that's the whole point ! The story and the emotional payoff are what matters most , and they are handled brilliantly . The flashbance sequence ; THE CRUEL TUTELAGE OF PAI MEI , is some of the most virtuostic filmmaking ever committed to celluoid and is worth the price of admission alone . The final showdown in the hotel room between the Bride and another assassin is classic Quentin and reminded of the dark tension and mood of his earlier films . Vol .2 is a work of stunning maturity and a major leap forward for the most gifted director of this generation .
069 4 Tarantino's many , varied , and devoted fans had to get used to a slightly new Tarantino film in Kill Bill , Vol . 1 . While Tarantino has always had a love for action sequences , most of his films were heavier on the dialogue than the fisticuffs . Not so in Vol . 1 , which skewed much more towards the action side of the scale . Sure , the trademark quips and pop-culture references were there , but the movie was defined by its over-the-top violence .
KB Vol . 2 represents a return to form for Tarantino ( yes , it's an extension of the same film , but since had to pay two ticket prices , they are two films ) , with the dialogue once again returning to the forefront . From the opening narrative , essentially working as the Chorus reintroducing the audience to the film after a long intermission , to several great scenes with the lethal Bill ( David Carradine , in a performance that makes us wonder why we haven't seen much , much more of this guy ) , this film is a refreshing return to Tarantino's incredible pseudo - 70 ' s jargon and speechifying .
Tarantino's fans are also always checking his films for references to other flicks . Overt references include The Searchers in addition to homages to Tarantino's other movies , and they do not disappoint . While Volume 1 was entertaining , I suspect that Volume 2 will receive more replays , if only because the tale is a bit more complex .
The film does not have the audacious Japanese anime sequence used with such great effectiveness in Volume 1 , but Tarantino includes an even more daring shot from inside a coffin as the occupant is buried alive ( look for the exhumed corpse to play a little shadow-puppet game during the gravedigging scene ) .
While Tarantino has said that he is interested in the idea of bringing back Vernita Green's daughter ( from Volume 1 ) for a future revenge drama , I think the better chance for a spin-off character is the character who finishes the film without eyeballs . The Blind Swordsman is one of the most beloved Japanese action heroes , and this character would be a perfect vehicle for Tarantino to give us his take on that legend .
Top-notch performances abound in this film . . . Uma Thurman remains at the top of her game , the remaining survivors of DiVAS are pitch-perfect , and ( again ) , David Carradine just plain steals the picture as an articulate , seductive , incredibly mean s.o.b .
A must for fans of QT's previous efforts . The extras on the DVD are pretty good , but you should buy this one for the film , not the bonus stuff .
070 4 Alright . . . It should be abundently clear that this is a fantastic movie . . . I have yet to hear of anyone who didn't like it , and as far as movie experiences go , Kill Bill Vol 2 did not disappoint .
In fact , it had fantastic surprises , turns of events , and overall cinematography , and was just a delightful watch . . . I liked it and David Carradine's performance as Bill so much that I went out and bought the complete first season of Kung Fu .
Kill Bill Vol 2 obviously follows the character played by Uma Thurman , the Bride further down the path to retribution for the murder of her family . Bill is played in a marvelously sadistic yet serene manner by Carradine , and it's by far the best peice of work I've ever seen him do . Michael Madson does not dissappoint , nor does Daryl Hannah , and Gordon Liu is scene stealing as the old priest , Pai Mei .
There is little that can disappoint with this movie as it has a great pace , Tarrentino's amazing sense of detail shows through in almost every scene , and the only complaint I have heard from anyone about the movie is that they didn't like that the body count was lower in Volume 2 than Volume 1 . Basically , Volume 1 is a classic revenge movie that explains the characters briefly , with more depth on the specific characters who star in it and a little cameo depth on the characters for Volume 2 . It asks all the questions and leaves you wondering what's going to happen for Volume 2 .
Volume 2 answers the questions and also has some great plot twists and things to throw you off the track a bit , and delves deep into the relationships between Bill and The Bride ( I'm not giving away her name for the sake of those who have only seen Vol 1 . . . ) , and is just a marvelous peice of filmmaking . . . It's very possibly the best martial arts movie ever made , and as Martial Arts Movies go , I liken Kill Bill Vols 1 and 2 as comparable to how The Godfather Vols 1 and 2 are to Mob movies . There may be some other great mob movies out there , but nothing quite compares to the first two Godfather movies . . . There may be some great martial arts flicks out there , but nothing will ever quite compare to Kill Bill Vols 1 and 2 .
071 4 Many who gave this movie a bad review were basing there review on their expectation that this was going to be a bloody action movie similar to vol . 1 . It's funny because this is where the story starts to unfold . So if you sit there , not listening to a word thats being said and only paying attention to any blood thats shed , you will be bored . Many great movies are given bad reviews such as rosemary's baby , which is a 100% horror movie but people found it boring because they sat for two hours waiting for action . actions speak louder than words is a very inaccurate phrase . If you listen to whats being said you can find more action in kill bill 2 than you think .
073 4 Okay , QT's onscreen loveletter to Uma Thurman has reached it's conclusion . Not a very epic one though . I think that most people who enjoyed the first installment will not like this one as much . Those who didn't like the first one at all might like it , but probably not .
Don't get me wrong , I enjoyed the movie . The acting was top-notch and Uma should definatley get a nod at Oscar time . The influence of many types of genres is evident and fun to watch . The sparse action is great when it happens . But I left the theater feeling gyped somehow . The dialog had it's good parts , but much of it didn't seem to pertain to the movie or go anywhere . And there is so much of it . If you are execting the wit and satire that harkens back to Reservior Dogs and Pulp Fiction , it really isn't there . And the climax of the movie . . . well , it was a bit anti-clamatic .
Kill Bill Vol .2 isn't a terrible movie , it just doesn't live up to it's potential . It is a suitible companion to Vol . 1 , but you just can't help but think that if he mixed the elements of the 2 movies together a bit more , a great whole would have been the result .
074 4 This review is from :
Kill Bill - Volume Two ( DVD )
Once you get past the first movie you will be impressed with the character and story development in this movie . I was impressed how much we learn and the tactics they use to get back at those they hate . Where the first Kill Bill is just bloody fighting and killing this movie is much more subtle . It certainly has fighting and killing , just not as much .
Tarantino went for real character development and he does an outstanding job . When I saw the first Kill Bill I was a bit disappointed in all the outragious killing . When a friend suggested I see the second , I was glad I did . It not only impressed me with the overall story , but with the characters as well . To fully appreciate both movies you must see Kill Bill 2 . The music is great in this movie . It reminded me of Spaghetti Westerns , Marshal Arts , and action movies . Great sets as well and the directing is first class .
Amazing story of pursuit and final revenge . You follow the bride around the world as she is in pursuit . She recalls her visit to Asia and her instruction in marshal arts . A masters training and a sword play key roles in the stories development . This movie is almost like mixing Crouching Tiger , Hidden Dragon with The Good , The Bad , and The Ugly I highly recommend this movie , it stands on its own and could be viewed with or without the first movie .
075 4 Once you get past the first movie you will be impressed with the character and story development in this movie . I was impressed how much we learn and the tactics they use to get back at those they hate . Where the first Kill Bill is just bloody fighting and killing this movie is much more subtle . It certainly has fighting and killing , just not as much .
Tarantino went for real character development and he does an outstanding job . When I saw the first Kill Bill I was a bit disappointed in all the outragious killing . When a friend suggested I see the second , I was glad I did . It not only impressed me with the overall story , but with the characters as well . To fully appreciate both movies you must see Kill Bill 2 . The music is great in this movie . It reminded me of Spaghetti Westerns , Marshal Arts , and action movies . Great sets as well and the directing is first class .
Amazing story of pursuit and final revenge . You follow the bride around the world as she is in pursuit . She recalls her visit to Asia and her instruction in marshal arts . A masters training and a sword play key roles in the stories development . This movie is almost like mixing Crouching Tiger , Hidden Dragon with The Good , The Bad , and The Ugly I highly recommend this movie , it stands on its own and could be viewed with or without the first movie .
076 4 I will be the first to admit this film's flaws . At some points it does drag with no substantial dialogue , or anything for that matter . Likewise one could make an argument that Kill Bill-Volume 1 was too much , with hardly any dialogue . So in reality , Vol . 2 is really the balancing act . It provides a heart for the saga , without forgetting how to entertain . Whereas Vol . 1 paid homage to Eastern influenced films through an anime scene , and through the brilliantly staged action sequences , Vol . 2 pays homage to Western spaghettis through its black and white prologue , Texas funeral , and of course Uma's fight with Daryl Hannah . The end scene with Bill , played brilliantly by David Carradine , is both sad and triumphant at the same time . And all the while , Tarantino hammers out a pretty solid , heartfelt story .
077 4 What most people fail to realize about the Kill Bill flicks is that they are seperate . In the first one , Q pays homage to all of the cheap and violent samuri movies that have influenced him over the years , but that does not carry over ( entirely ) to Vol . 2 . I see how you some might be confused since there is an asian guy in Vol . 2 , but please , let me elaborate . Q has said himself that he was also greatly influenced by spaghetti westerns and that 2 is an homage to those films . The setting for most of the movie is California , wild as ever . If you listen to the music in the second film you may notice that most of it was taken out of the old westerns and used the way the original film makers used them , to build suspense and excitement and not to take the place of action . All of the fight scenes are showdowns , no excessive gore ( hardly anything even relating to gore since gore implies blood ) , no sidekicks or armies , just one on one confrontations ( ok , a few people get a little help here and there , but it's still pretty much one on one ) . If you try you'll notice this and so much more ; the film is full of refrences , even to his own work and the work of his friends . Even though Vol . 2 is very different from the first one , I hope you keep an open mind about the experiance , it really is a beautiful film and a great ending to this tale of revenge .
078 4 I plan to buy this and give it away later . The USA version is great and is released sooner which is a bonus . I prefer the real thing , the Japanese version which is a ' uncut , uncensored , no deleted scene type ' due to come out Oct . 2004 .
Note that in this earlier , USA release has a deleted scene : Damoe and according to my research ( Googling , weblogs , etc . ) , here's what I found :
The special Japanese edition boxset will include the original uncut 4 hour version , and we can hope there are many special features .
The uncensored version they did for Japan . . . . . . none of that black and white footage to mute out the blood . . . . . . . .
I think I'll stick around for the Japanese version . Mind you . . . you won't need to learn Japanese .
079 4 Kill Bill Volume 2 is an amazing spectacle directed by the best filmmaker in Hollywood today , Quentin Tarantino ( Reservoir Dogs ) , and starring Uma Thurman ( Pulp Fiction ) , David Carradine ( Death Race 2000 ) , Daryl Hannah ( Wall Street ) , and Michael Madsen ( Reservoir Dogs ) .
Kill Bill Volume 2 delivers yet another heavy dosage of blood , Samurai swords and quirky dialogue . The movie begins where Volume 1 left off : The Bride , now revealed as Beatrix Kiddo , played by Thurman , has just killed two of her former co-members in the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad : Vernita Green , played by Vivica A . Fox , and O-Ren Ishii , played by Lucy Liu . Now , Beatrix is determined to get to the leader of them all and once she does she will kill Bill , played by Caradine , but not before she confronts the one-eyed maniac Elle Driver , played by Hannah , in the most memorable fight scene of all Kill Bill films , and Bud , played by Madsen , Bill's trailer dwelling brother . Along the way , we are finally introduced to Bill ( in the first Volume , Bill is heard but not seen ) . We're also given Bill's motives for ordering the assault on the Texas church where The Bride , her fiance and companions were brutally massacred by the DiVAS . The sequel also explores how Kiddo , or The Bride , was trained into becoming a killing machine , and , finally , introduces us to the fate of The Bride's baby and who the father is .
Kill Bill Volumes 1 and 2 have been hailed by many critics as Quentin Tarantino's best work since 1994 ' s Oscar winning Pulp Fiction . As one whole movie , Kill Bill is undeniably his bloodiest film to date , and one of the most brilliant films of the first decade of the millennium .
Recommended
A
080 4 I can't get enough of these flicks . While I love both Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction , and I thought that Jackie Brown was a sweet and fitting tribute to Pam Greer , nothing compares to the Kill Bill films . I can watch these two at least once a month .
Watching the film go back and forth between silly , cartoonish violence to the emerging story of The Bride is like a roller coaster ride . Quentin manages to balance the two elements of this epic perfectly . Too much of the violence would just be numbing and boring . Too much of the story would be Jane Austin .
Quentin manages to keep you involved in the story of The Bride without giving away too much too soon . And he even makes you care about secondary characters like Brother Budd before he meets a well-deserved death .
Personally , I loved the character of Elle Driver and would like to see a prequel , the story of her life and training .
Quentin not only came back with these two films , he surpassed his previous glory by adding so much more depth and color to his amazingly unique vision
081 4 Kill Bill Volume 2 is easily one of the most original stories I've ever seen . Everywhere I thought this movie was going to go . . . . it didn't . Granted there are violent scenes , revenge filled rampaging fights and plenty of edge of your seat action . What I didn't expect was a lot of comedy . The actors never played anything for a laugh and I believe that's why it translated so well . The black and white cinematography ranks up there with some of the best ever , plus the camera movement was unreal . They used plenty of really neat pan shots . They always had the camera moving at very pleasing angles that went hand in hand with the telling of the story and at times the unfolding of the story as when the camera balances out other people or objects come into frame .
The fight between Elle Driver and The Bride is one of the most memorable fight scenes ever , if not the best . Just really original concepts provided by the Yuen Wo Ping Fight Team who deserve some sort of award for their helping revive a rebirth in the genre let alone spawning movies such as the Matrix etc . Also deserving praise is Uma Thurman who easily gave her best performance to date . Wow is all that can be said . She was funny , vulnerable and [ great action packed ] all at the same time . I really see this as a female empowerment film .
Quentin Tarantino delivers an astonishing film . It's obvious he loves this genre way more then the hardcore addicts it's so welcome in today's film industry where producers call the shots . You can tell this series is his baby . This is a definitely a must have especially if you loved the first one .
082 4 Cinematic brilliance . Indulgent ? Of course ! It's Tarantino we're talking about here ! But if you love what he indulges in these are the films for you . If you don't , then you'll probably be bored and annoyed . He's an artist pushing the limits of his craft and basically making himself happy - and what's wrong with that ? Isn't that what so many artists would love - a chance to produce something totally their own ?
KBV2 really hits its mark when we * finally * arrive at Bill's lair and meet Bebe . ( Bebe ? ) He slows the pace down and lets you sit back and savor the subtly brilliant naturalistic acting of Carradine . A mesmorizing force , Carradine rules every scene that he's in ; it's almost like he's got you under some crazy thespian spell .
All in all , a fabulous film for those of you who love acting , dialogue , action , pushing of limits , and that self-indulgent factor named Quentin Tarantino .
083 4 I liked this movie a lot ( even better than vol . 1 ) but I haven't purchased it . Why ? There is a big special edition in the works with vol . 1 and 2 combined , commentary by Tarantino , deleted scenes , etc .
If you can't wait , this is a decent price , but I suggest holding out for the definitive version .
085 4 I have to say that when Pulp Fiction came out , people made a big deal about it . I had not seen Resevoir Dogs , so I didn't know about the wunderkind Tarantino . So given all that has gone before - what about this movie ? In a few words - its violent , disgusting ( eyeball anyone ? ) , visually arresting , a virtual cornocopia of movie genre styles , and about one of the most consistently interesting movies I think I have seen , perhaps ever . It is just so memorable .
Why ? Kill Bill is a female empowerment , martial arts , revenge B movie , western . It makes no sense , takes place in a dream world and yet is great . What can I say .
Uma Thurman is excellent in this movie . She nails every emotion in the book , but David Carradine is phenomenal . His charecterization of Bill - the person that the first movie and this one leads to finding and having revenge against - is soo good at being both evil and damn interesting that to say he eats the scenery is an understatment . Wow . Darryl Hannah and Michael Madsen also give great performances as two more people ' The Bride ' seeks revenge against .
The movie is not one big blood fest as I originally thought and heard . To me it is more like a kid's idea of gore . It is disgusting , but the horror is more often the product of your mind's imagination . Yet , there is gore to be sure .
Tarantino is one of the few directors in today's Hollywood with a great sense of visual style .
Kill Bill is truly a unique film . If your not a fim buff , many things may not make sense . The training with Pai Mei seems to border on the ridiculous , yet in the context of the martial arts movies like Crouching Tiger , Hidden dragon , and others , it seems to fit . The Five Palm Exploding Heart is stupid , and yet seems at all possible . The charecters don't seem to exixt in the real world - who cares ?
All in all , this is a great movie - memorable and interesting and truly a product of a sick mind . However , as Aldous Huxley ( author of Brave New World ) , a sick mind is a perpetual feast .
Ready to eat ?
086 4 If you're like me , before you buy or rent a film you might check the customer reviews on amazon.com to see what other people thought . The problem is , everyone has different tastes and different opinions on what is good and what is bad . If you're a Tarantino fan then you probably have seen this film twenty times and don't need to be sold on it's greatness . But for those of you out there who haven't studied every scene and memorized every line Mr . Pink ever said in Reservoirs Dogs . . . here's an honst review on the KING GEEK'S latest masterpeice . Kill Bill Vol . 1 was amazing but seemed a little more exploitive than anything ' ol Quentin had ever done . The film was just violent and had little plot . . . it was a straight forward revenge flick that pretty much never trailed from it's inspirations . I myself am a massive revenge film fan , ( check out Rolling Thunder , Man on Fire , Mad Max and King of the Ants ) and I have to say that the Bride fighting the Crazy 88 in Vol . 1 was one of the most awesome American produced martial arts action scenes ever captured on film . Saying that , the film lacked something that Tarantino really unleashed in Vol . 2 . . . power . Kill Bill Vol . 2 shows us that Quentin has grown up and isn't all about excess and exploitation . He's not all about violence . At times in Vol . 2 it felt like it wasn't a Tarantino film because of the emotions that take place in the film . This film is a lot more dramatic , a lot more epic , and a lot more story and character driven . SOme of the scenes are so original and so smart and so well directed and acted that it's a wonder why the Academy Awards totally ignored the film at this years Oscars . Vol . 2 may lack the blood but it's the real guts of what Kill Bill really is . It's also a homage to Leone's spagetti westerns . . . half the soundtrack is old Morricone scores from Italian films . Michael Madsen's character is straight out of an old western . And then you have the Shaw Brothers tribute with the whole Pei Mei training of The Bride . This film effected me much more than Vol . 1 did . Both films are wonderful but Vol . 2 is the one that proves to the world that Tarantino is much more than fancy dialogue and unforgiving violence . Look for Quentin's newest project , he directed a scene in the upcoming SIN CITY adaptation in which Benecio Del Toro haunts Clive Owen's Dwight .
087 4 This two-parter is the best thing Tarantino has done since Pulp Fiction . My wife hated the first part last year , so I had to go to this one with some like-minded friends , and we loved it . We know now that the Bride's real name is Beatrix Kiddo ( nice bit of tongue-in-cheek ) and Umas Thurman long , lanky style fits the role perfectly . Michael Madsen is terrific as Bill's brother , Budd . And David Caradine is an instant classic as Bill . Again , Tarantino builds great individual scenes , including the last fight between Beatrix and Elle ( Daryl Hannah ) , the black mamba bit , Bill's analysis of comic book superhero character-types , and the entire burial alive chapter . My friends felt a bit cheated that the showdown between the Bride and Bill wasn't a cataclysmic samurai sword scene , but I thought the rather understated Five Point Palm Exploding Heart Technique was a perfect , unexpected Tarantino ending .
088 4 Yes this movie is deffinately not a dissapointment to volume 1 , it is equally as great , the movie is a bit different but not in a bad way , I mean it would suck if they made a repitition of the first one and just kill all the bad guys with no extra story . In this installment qt dwells more into the story background , reveals who bill is , shows the training Beautrix went through before becoming the words deadliest women , oh yeah it reveals her name ( BEAUTRIX ) .
Different from volume 1 , volume two brings in some family loves after beautrix finds her daughter , Beautrix is a much more likable character in vol 2 , the movie makes you accually feal sorrow for her shows what she really has undernief the whole killing thing . I have to be honest volume two has no where near as much action as vol 1 so it is important that you watch the first installment first just to get a feal for the story , the movie still entertains to the full extent .
Volume 2 has all the great camera shots of Uma's battle face and still uses the japanamation on some flashback scenes so dont worry the movie deffinately hasn't lost itself . The movie is fit with a great soundtrack and some great fighting scenes , after a whole lot of crap happening to her Beautrix finally makes it to her key objective and i'll leave it to you to find out what happens there .
If you watched volume 1 , there is no way you can miss volume two don't worry what anyone else says , the movie is brilliant and will leave you with a good feeling .
089 4 After seeing this in the theater , I left convinced that the Kill Bill saga ( both 1 & 2 together ) is Tarentino's best wotk . Seeing Vol .2 on DVD just reinforced that opinion . From the very opening with the haunting piano . . . . it seemed like it was destined to more than the action-fest of the first installment . We're treated to the full story of how the ' wedding massacre ' went down proving that the event was far more brutal and traitorous than any of us could of imagined .
The biggest questions of all left from vol .1 ( why and why , to certain issues ) are all wrapped up nicely here . Bill , is sadistic and insane , of course ; but he might not be the cold-blooded psycho we expect him to be .
By the way . . . . the shot of the Bride and Pai Mei doing the animal forms in synch with each other in front of the red backdrop has to be the single coolest thing I've ever seen in a movie .
091 4 I really enjoyed vol 1 and this I may have liked even more . Much thicker plot , more dialogue than action , but you need vol 1 to complete the film . I haven't had more fun watching movies than Kill Bill ( 1& 2 ) in a long time . Good suspense , excellent plot , no billion dollar effects , no sci-fi , no melodramatic moping . And David Carradine rocks .
092 4 This review is from :
Kill Bill - Volume Two ( DVD )
I loved Kill Bill Vol 1 and was one of the first in line to see the DVD of Kill Bill Vol 2 . I sure wasn't disappointed . And I think that Quentin Tarantino is a genius , especially in the way the two films work together . Vol 1 was all action and not much story . All the audience knew was that the bride , played by Uma Thurman , who also was Tarantino's co-writer , was after revenge . There was a lot of fighting and huge scenes where this lone woman battled hoards of assassins . It was complete in and of itself . And it seemed that the back-story didn't matter .
But the back-story DID matter . And that is what Vol 2 is about . The audience has already gotten to know the characters and is also prepared for some incredibly horrific fighting that goes way over the top in violence . I expected more of the same . But that was not to be . Instead , I was treated to a slow unfolding of a story . The fighting was equally vile and wild , of course . And there is one fight scene between Uma Thurman and Daryl Hannah that is guaranteed to make you wince . But there were indeed fewer casualties in Vol 1 and some very tender moments too . The characters grew in complexity , especially Bill , played by an aging David Carradine . In this role he's the embodiment of evil , and yet his appeal is understandable . Uma Thurman must have had to train round-the-clock to learn all the martial arts moves that this film required . But there are some scenes in the film in which she has to use all her acting talent and show some real emotion in some incredible situations . Her performance shines .
If you're looking for a kind and gentle film , this is not the film for you . But if you're looking for innovative filmmaking , unrelenting violence and complexity , you'll LOVE Kill Bill 2 . Highly recommended .
093 4 I loved Kill Bill Vol 1 and was one of the first in line to see the DVD of Kill Bill Vol 2 . I sure wasn't disappointed . And I think that Quentin Tarantino is a genius , especially in the way the two films work together . Vol 1 was all action and not much story . All the audience knew was that the bride , played by Uma Thurman , who also was Tarantino's co-writer , was after revenge . There was a lot of fighting and huge scenes where this lone woman battled hoards of assassins . It was complete in and of itself . And it seemed that the back-story didn't matter .
But the back-story DID matter . And that is what Vol 2 is about . The audience has already gotten to know the characters and is also prepared for some incredibly horrific fighting that goes way over the top in violence . I expected more of the same . But that was not to be . Instead , I was treated to a slow unfolding of a story . The fighting was equally vile and wild , of course . And there is one fight scene between Uma Thurman and Daryl Hannah that is guaranteed to make you wince . But there were indeed fewer casualties in Vol 1 and some very tender moments too . The characters grew in complexity , especially Bill , played by an aging David Carradine . In this role he's the embodiment of evil , and yet his appeal is understandable . Uma Thurman must have had to train round-the-clock to learn all the martial arts moves that this film required . But there are some scenes in the film in which she has to use all her acting talent and show some real emotion in some incredible situations . Her performance shines .
If you're looking for a kind and gentle film , this is not the film for you . But if you're looking for innovative filmmaking , unrelenting violence and complexity , you'll LOVE Kill Bill 2 . Highly recommended .
094 4 Quentin Tarantino expands his Kill Bill film with this movie KB Pt . II . This film answers all those questions that crept into your psyche during part one .
While KB Pt . I was filled with unanswered questions , many fight scenes and brutal killings this film ( Pt . II ) is more on a psychological mission than a physical one . In a way this movie is the Western version of the East / West duo . The film still focuses upon the story of The Bride ( Uma Thurman ) and her revenge quest against those who wronged her . Most importantly in this film we finally get to meet Bill , played with interest by David Carradine . Together Thurman and Carradine take the audience on another uniquely original ride directed by Tarantino .
KB Part II has less brutality and sadly less Kung Fu . But in this film we are able to understand the characters better and the tortures they are faced with are more psychological in origin . We meet Bill , and the man The Bride intended to marry , Daryl Hannah has a significant part in the saga , Michael Madsen provides some interesting sensitivity , and finally the Kung Fu master Pai Mei ( played by Chia Hui Liu ) makes his debut training Thurman on to brilliance . This film is done with many black & white scenes and old western type scenes , while the music in the background sounds a little like an old spaghetti western from Italy I once saw .
This film is less intense than Part I but more grueling psychologically . One great fight scene is not to be missed between Thurman and Hannah of course ! Tarantino manages to keep the viewers interested while creating a completely different movie from Part I , but watch them both and experience something unique and interesting , with stunning visuals and great music .
095 4 A minority of detractors have complained that KILL BILL-Vol 2 ( and Vol . 1 ) is derivative . However , this is Quentin Tarantino and there is a certain stamp and style to this film ( and all his films ) . What is homage is also adding a large amount of originality to a genre . Both volumes of KILL BILL is an amalgam of spaghetti westerns , kung fu movies , anime , and revenge flicks . The standout performance is , of course , Uma Thurman ( as ' The Bride ' ) . She is bent on revenge and wanting payback from those who ruined her wedding day and out to kill the man who engineered the hit on her : Bill ( good to see David Carradine in a major movie role ) . This was a unique performance for Thurman showing off her acting and physical chops , and she should get a Best Actress nomination . Once again Tarantino shows his flair for crisp dialogue , drawn out scenes , and his love of pop culture , television and movies in general . When Uma Thurman as ' The Bride ' gets in her ' revenge-and-kill ' mode and the theme song from the tv series IRONSIDE ( Raymond Burr ) blares in the background , it's pure joy . It's ashame Tarantino doesn't do more movies . However , as one film reviewer in praise of Tarantino's work states ( to paraphrase ) , one has to remember that Tarantino is also a writer as well as a filmmaker . He writes the films he directs . Therefore , it is a long process between film projects . It might be a blessing because it makes his films worth waiting for . This reviewer is looking forward to Tarantino's next project .
096 4 While waiting for the inevitable ultimate edition of this title together with Part I , in some kind of souped up Bill Saga , this DVD transfer does just fine . It's worth it just to see the expressions of doubt , fear , pain and triumph cross Uma Thurman's face . The deleted scene is also worth th cost of the DVD , so there you go , it's the kind of extra I wasn't expecting with this apparent time-serving placeholder , so good for QT . Mexican-American actors may protest QT's use of the Anglo ( former ) heart throb Michael Parks to play the Mexican capo , but Parks delivers a performance that outdoes his playing of a very different role in KILL BILL VOL 1 . I showed this DVD to three ftiends who had never seen part I , and none of them complained that they couldn't understand it . It is number one , a simple story when stripped of its excrescences , and number two , hypnotic from the first majestic downbeat on the soundtrack .
The DVD looks and sounds great all the way through to the improbable and happy ending . Of course , we have a feeling there will be trouble ahead when the little daughter of Vivica Fox grows up to brandish a weapon raised in vengeance . Those of you who have read Cornell Woolrich's novels THE BRIDE WORE BLACK or THE BLACK ANGEL will have experienced this richness of story-telling before , but for the rest of us , KILL BILL is a novel idea , beautifully executed by a gang of pros .
097 4 This installment moves more slowly than the first . While there is plenty of violence and again , pretty cool fight scenes and some really cool cinematography , the whole story finally gets told through present time crisis and flashbacks .
I enjoyed this as much , if not more , than the first , which is a rare quality in any sequel . This homage to the old Kung Fu genre is a well acted , visually aesthetic film that cannot be missed if you liked the first one .
098 4 NO , not nearly as frenetic as and far more talky and philosophical than Vol . 1 , but that's OK . This is a near-perfect ending to a visually amazing film . Tarrantino's tribute to several genres is heartfelt ; a little over the top at times , but purely intenbtional . But I agree with some reviewers ; you have to see 1 before 2 .
099 4 Thursday , August 12 , 2004 / 4 of 5 / Almost languid ending .
Compared to the frenetic carnage of the first installation , the second has an almost languid ending to the chop-socky revenge saga . Uma returns as the bride and continues her quest to wreak revenge on those who apparently killed her and her unborn child . As the scenes shift between southwest spaghetti western locales and her training in the east ; I was reminded that I actually preferred the first installment's Tokyo rumble and the treatment . Granted , a second dose of the same killing would be tough to handle , it was just . . . different . More introspective and dare I say it , calm in its damage . Uma is more precise here and not as whirlwind , tearing through 88 gangsters . Taken together , it's an impressive homage piece and artistic statement .
101 4 . . . Tarantino is a virtuoso film-maker . He ranks among the very best . There is not a wasted frame in this 136 minute , hysterically violent chop-socky masterpiece . I laughed myself sick through the dirtiest brawl I've ever witnessed on film ( although , granted , I cry through Geiko commercials ) : the showdown between The Bride and Elle ( Daryl Hannah ) . All of the elements ( music , cinematography and especially the crack editing ) coalesce supernaturally and an All-American Cheeseburger Deluxe of a movie is unleashed . Never boring .
102 4 If you have seen Volume 1 and you enjoyed it , then I highly recommend Volume 2 . While Vol . 2 has much less violence than the first movie , Tarantino treats the audience to character development which makes the final scene between Beatrix Kiddo and Bill all the more potent . Along with the tension at the end , Tarantino gives the audience some hysterical moments such as Kiddo's training with the White Lotus .
And besides , what would your collection be if you owned Vol . 1 but not Vol . 2 ?
103 4 The whole Kill Bill movie is awesome , 1 and 2 . What people don't seem to understand is that the movie wasnt just divided in two because of the length of the story , the more important reason is because Volume 1 was intended to be a tribute to the famous japanese samurai movies such as the Akira Kurosawa films , so it has more action , stranger soundtrack , the anime , the gushing blood , etc .
Volume 2 is an homage to films of western culture , mainly spaghetti and American Westerns , like the Sergio Leone dollars trilogy and such . You can tell because of the desert and Mexico setting and the western soundtrack with songs by ennio morricone . Together , the 2 movies show how one common story can be told across the world , in the East and West .
105 4 Tarantino found the perfect form for this film . Now that I've seen Vol . 2 , I can say for sure that the split works perfectly well . And yes , sure , I would like to see it as a whole reunited film some day , but now I see that the 2 volumes strategy works in an entertaining and artistic way too .
I won't say much about plot . You can find that everywhere else . It's true that the first volume was all action , and this one is more of a complete films . It also makes the previous one even better , because now you see the substance behind all that virtuos action scene .
The final dialogue between The Bride and Bill is the great pay off . It puts the whole thing in a new perspective , and you'll find yourself liking that Bill a bit too . He is a tragic chraracter , as much as the Bride and the others . This is the great thing here , there is no good and bad side really . I mean , The Bride herself was one of them , and only motherhood made her change her ways . But think of O-Ren . . . She became what she was because of a tragic childhood , so she's a victim too . Everyone is a victim here , and everyone is a killer because of that . . . as a song I heard recently said you become the monster / so the monster will not break you . Think of Vernita's daughter . . . she is a victim of The Bride too . She might want satisfaction some day , and if she killed Beatrix , no one could really object . Of couse , what maked Beatrix more human and closer to us is that she became a mother and that made her a real person , not only a roaring rampage killer . She trascended the killer she was , and almost pay with her life .
And Bill . . . when he explains the reasons behind his actions , you'll find it hard not to simpathize at least in some ways with him .
All of this , plus the brilliant single-minded and virtuos directing ( Tarantino has become a great director now ; the great screenwriter is no surprise of course ) make this one a milestone film .
106 4 This review is from :
Kill Bill - Volume Two [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
I want to make it VERY clear , the three stars are NOT for the movie . Kill Bill , in my view , is one of the best movies ever made but this evaluation is for THIS Kill Bill Blu-ray release .
I am totally sold on Blu and , when the Kill Bill bundle became available . . . well . . . I ordered it when Amazon offered it at a great discount . The bundle includes Kill Bill 1 and 2 and , IF you wish to upgrade your KBs I highly recommend the bundle because you could save a few dollars . There is no difference between the 2 KBs sold as individual titles and them sold together other than , possibly , the price .
I wish I had a lot to say about the Blu-ray version but I don't so , let me say what is worth saying :
- The contents of the Blu-ray version are EXACTLY those of the DVD edition , nothing more , nothing less .
- Even the artwork is borrowed from the original DVD edition .
- The ' extras ' are shot in low resolution , in fact they are the exact extras you will find on the DVD .
- The resolution of the movie is , of course , higher than the DVD's and the audio is available as ' uncompressed ' but nothing special was done for the Blu issue . I noticed quite a few artifacts and some graininess but , overall , the picture quality is good . It could have been a lot better . I expect a remastered edition in the near future .
Overall , I am not very happy with this edition which appears to have been put together on the cheap and in a hurry . I suspect that the digital master used to make the DVDs was quickly converted to Blu and thrown out on the market but I could be wrong .
I am looking forward to a complete and professionally done Tarantino filmography on Blu in the near future , meaning that I'd be buying the Kill Bills three times .
On deciding whether to buy this release or not it should be up to one's budget . Those who don't have the DVD edition but have a Blu player , definitely buy the Blu , preferably the bundle because one never knows when a superior version may be released . If you already have the DVD . . . like I said , I bought my KB 1& 2 package when Amazon offered it at a very significant discount .
107 4 I want to make it VERY clear , the three stars are NOT for the movie . Kill Bill , in my view , is one of the best movies ever made but this evaluation is for THIS Kill Bill Blu-ray release .
I am totally sold on Blu and , when the Kill Bill bundle became available . . . well . . . I ordered it when Amazon offered it at a great discount . The bundle includes Kill Bill 1 and 2 and , IF you wish to upgrade your KBs I highly recommend the bundle because you could save a few dollars . There is no difference between the 2 KBs sold as individual titles and them sold together other than , possibly , the price .
I wish I had a lot to say about the Blu-ray version but I don't so , let me say what is worth saying :
- The contents of the Blu-ray version are EXACTLY those of the DVD edition , nothing more , nothing less .
- Even the artwork is borrowed from the original DVD edition .
- The ' extras ' are shot in low resolution , in fact they are the exact extras you will find on the DVD .
- The resolution of the movie is , of course , higher than the DVD's and the audio is available as ' uncompressed ' but nothing special was done for the Blu issue . I noticed quite a few artifacts and some graininess but , overall , the picture quality is good . It could have been a lot better . I expect a remastered edition in the near future .
Overall , I am not very happy with this edition which appears to have been put together on the cheap and in a hurry . I suspect that the digital master used to make the DVDs was quickly converted to Blu and thrown out on the market but I could be wrong .
I am looking forward to a complete and professionally done Tarantino filmography on Blu in the near future , meaning that I'd be buying the Kill Bills three times .
On deciding whether to buy this release or not it should be up to one's budget . Those who don't have the DVD edition but have a Blu player , definitely buy the Blu , preferably the bundle because one never knows when a superior version may be released . If you already have the DVD . . . like I said , I bought my KB 1& 2 package when Amazon offered it at a very significant discount .
108 4 Only Quentin pulled out this wonderful ending .
With Carradine gave this punch-line Baby , you ain't kidding before the grand final battle . It almost killed me with laughing but Quentin didn't give me enough time enjoy it , he threw in the sword-fight and fist-fight immediately . Luckily for me , I watched DVD so I could rewind it . ; - )
And the conversation between Thurman and Carradine is masterfully written in both the living room and patio .
I believe Quentin could pull out Kill Bill 3 and Kill Bill 4 as well as Kill Bill Episo One easily .
Carradine's act is favorite one since Tommy Lee Jones in MIB when he bought the Tabloid at the counter and when he accepted the drink offer from the lady at the farm house . So funny and so professional . ; - )
A few points I observed from this movie :
1 ) 2 seemingly unrelated scenes : killing Bill and killing Elle . We know Kiddo would kill Bill at the end but how ? The whole 2 movies revolving around the Hanzo's sword . Then it had been what we all anticipated . Then Kiddo poked out Elle's last eye after Kiddo questioned Elle about the first lost eye ( Mei Pei did it ) . I could not realize it until now that it was an introduction to the ultimate technique that he taught her . And she kept it secretly so that she could use on Bill at the end . ( See human complexity below . )
2 ) Long fight between Bill and Kiddo : we all waited to see a long violent fight between them . It didn't happen but it DID happen . The whole 2 movies are about how Bill tried to kill Kiddo violenly but unsuccessfully . Then he stacked up the killers to stop her .
3 ) Bill did not want to kill Kiddo : he stopped Elle when she was about to kill Kiddo in the hospital in the first movie . He could just kill her by gun when they were in the living . Or ordered Budd to terminate Kiddo . And so on .
4 ) Bill is a complex person : He admitted he was a murdering bastard . He confessed he was so upset when he felt betrayed by Kiddo . He took on the job of single-dad . He didn't try to kill Kiddo after the first time , he just tried to stop her from killing him .
5 ) Quentin deleted one very good scene : I guessed the blood flowing was so ridiculous to even Quentin's standard . ; - ) But on the first movie , he showed Lucy Liu with half of her brain exposed . . . ; - ) What a sicko ! ; - ) ( Great job , man ! ) And Thurman looked the best in that deleted scene . Wow !
6 ) It's about a love story : At the end , Kiddo and Bill still had feeling for each other .
7 ) Quentin admitted that the whole movie is almost all about Bill . His purpose is for the generation after Kung Fu will remember Carradine as Bill , not as Kwai Chang Caine .
109 4 * * * This comment may contain spoilers * * *
If you've not seen the movie , and don't want to know what happens , stop reading now .
I really enjoyed watching this movie but I think that the fascinating character of Pei Mei should've been given more depth . I also don't think that the way he died at all made sense to the rest of the movie and I found the manner of death and the fact that he died extraneous .
Uma Thurman is a bad ass as usual but her best scene was the scene where she rips out Elle's other eye and steps on it . That scene * RULED * but the fact that you don't know what happens to her ultimately bothers me . I did like the credits with the cross-out motif . That was creative .
I think that David Carradine , the actor that played Bill , the title character , was boring . I was expecting someone more interesting to play that character . Someone more bad ass like Clint Eastwood or something . I think his death was ironically non-violent and I liked it , it was appropriate .
I rated this movie a 5 because I found it highly entertaining and compared to most other movies that've come out lately , it ROCKED .
110 4 The thing is , with a Tarantino flick , you basically know what you're getting into . Yeah , Vol 1 is quirky , and lots of violence , and maybe even cheesy at times , but after seeing Pulp Fiction , Four Rooms , Jackie Brown , etc , what do you expect ?
I've had discussions with friends who think the 2nd volume is better , and their main argument is that Vol 2 has more plot !
Let's make a distinction : Plot and dialogue are NOT THE SAME . Both have the same plot . That's why it's a two volume movie .
The choreography was better in the 1st Vol . The cinamatography is way ( ! ) better in the 1st ( Consider the final showdown between Thurman and Lucy Liu - - case-in-point . ) And let's face it : It was way more Tarantino-esque than the 2nd Vol .
But the 2nd Vol does have pros : If you've seen the 1st , you MUST see the 2nd . Admit it , you need the closure ! The 2nd does a nice job of putting everything in its place without being too over-explanatory . Also , character development . The dialogue and background scenes are needed to develop the characters , and make it more personal for the audience . Also , it's very funny to see Michael Madsen play a let-himself-go loser , when we're so used to seeing him as the badass guy you love to hate !
111 4 As I noted in a review for Vol .1 , these 2 movies were originally one movie and cut in half for time . If you think of them as one , you'll enjoy them both more .
Where Vol . 1 is mostly action scenes and flashbacks ; Vol . 2 deals with a much more defined storyline and the character's present situation . Another fun ride from Tarentino and definitely a must see !
With his usual style of the story jumping around , Vol .1 is necessary to understand & appreciate Vol .2 . The ending is a shocker and pretty twisted . A GREAT FILM ! and I didn't even see White Chicks . ( see below review )
113 4 This review is from :
Kill Bill - Volume Two ( DVD )
People expecting the fast-paced action of Kill Bill , Voulume 1 may be disappointed by Volume 2 . . . at times the story was painstakingly slow . However , the action scenes and background stories keep viewers interested . Those who appreciate Tarantino's quircky style will not be disappointed !
114 4 People expecting the fast-paced action of Kill Bill , Voulume 1 may be disappointed by Volume 2 . . . at times the story was painstakingly slow . However , the action scenes and background stories keep viewers interested . Those who appreciate Tarantino's quircky style will not be disappointed !
115 4 Kill Bill is a film that most either love or hate . . . . . there's very few average reviews , but whether for better or worse , most will probably agree that Kill Bill is not an average movie , and un utterly unforgettable one at that .
It's important to know how important it is to see Volume 1 before seeing this one . Several critics have noted that Kill Bill Volume 2 can be enjoyed without seeing Vol . 1 , as you need little to no background information to understand what's going on in the second installment . Regardless , Volume 2 is infinitely more enjoyable upon seeing the first part , and you will have a much deeper appreciation for both parts .
Now when I originally saw Vol . 2 , I was initially disappointed . I felt cheated , as if Tarantino owed me a grander , more violent ending to the saga . I felt so horrible , because my anticipation for the movie was so high . I wasn't more excited to finally see the end of the Bride's adventure , but when it was over , I craved much more .
However , there was a great deal I enjoyed about the film . The opening two minutes of the film instantly had me smiling at the familiar sounds from Vol . 1 ' s introduction , and the music and performance from Uma ( ` ` And when I arrive at my destination . . . . I am gonna kill Bill ' ' ) couldn't have had me more excited . The two minute black-out as the camera lingers inside the Brides coffin as she's buried alive was very clever ; it could have become a tedious , boring scene very quickly , but Uma Thurman's tremendous acting kept me on edge . The entire Chapter dedicated to The Bride's training with Pai Mei was fantastic , and the fight scene between Elle and the Bride was spectacular , instantly becoming my favorite fight in either volumes .
As the movie progressed , I couldn't wait until the Bride came face to face with Bill himself . Specifically , I couldn't wait until the big , final fight . But first things first : She had to first come face to face with her daughter , who Bill had been raising for four years . Now the fact that her daughter ( named B.B . ) is still alive isn't a big revelation for the audience ( well , at least the audience members who have seen Vol . 1 ) , but the Bride is shocked and immediately more at peace . She realizes that she doesn't have to wage revenge on Bill anymore for the sake of her dead daughter . For the first time in both volumes , you see the Bride happy . Still though , it's obvious that she hasn't traveled so far just to let Bill off the hook ; they still have unfinished business .
So after Bill explains his actions and we finally understand exactly why the Deadly Vipers slaughtered the Bride's wedding party , the Bride leans forward to him , whispering , ` ` You and I have unfinished business ' ' . ` ` Baby , ' ' he replies , ` ` You ain't kiddin ' ' ' . And then WHAM ! The final fight to the death begins , and if the title of the movie is any indication , we know exactly who is going to be victorious . But just as a smile crossed my face as I realized the final fight , which I had waited so long for , was underway . . . . . it was over . It began , and then it just . . . . . ended . I couldn't believe it !
Not long after Bill had fallen to the ground dead , the movie was over , but I was still too angry by the final death to appreciate the ending .
So why the five star review ? ?
The movie is probably nothing like one would expect after seeing the first volume . It's totally of the same piece as Volume 1 , but at the same time , it is completely different . While many didn't appreciate the dialogue being sacrificed for the gore and violence in the first volume ( I did ) , as many people are not happy with Volume 2 because there is too much dialogue and not enough action . For some reason , many just can't accept a movie where the dialogue can move the story forward as well as mindless action . Some just don't have attention span for that sort of film , but let me assure anyone who is in doubt : Quentin Tarantino is probably the only director today who could make this kind of slow-paced movie work . Regardless , the point is , it DOES work .
But what about the final fight with Bill ? Didn't I just finish saying that it was a horribly disappointing ending ? Well , after seeing the film once , I thought about it for a really long time . Then I realized something : Tarantino was right . I tried to think of any other way Bill could have died , and I knew that there was no alternate way that would work . The Bride came to feel different about Bill by the end of the journey , especially after seeing Bill's beautiful relationship with B.B . We as an audience see the more human side of Bill , and it would have been unfair , disturbing even , to see him slaughtered in a bloody , gritty fight as the other DiVAS members were . Besides , throughout the span of both films , Bill was talked about as if he was the most fierce , dangerous man with a samurai sword , period . If The Bride had had a long , drawn-out sword fight with Bill , he would have had to kill her ; The Bride wouldn't stand a chance against him . So for her to kill him in a tasteful , believable manner , it had to be short and sweet . Suddenly , the movie's ending made so much more sense to me .
The point is , the movie might take more than one viewing to fully appreciate it . I can say , at least for me , that the film certainly grows in stature after repeated viewings . The first time I saw Volume 2 I thought it was a great effort from Tarantino , but the unexpected , abrupt ending cast a dark shadow over an otherwise extraordinary film . You might just realize eventually , though , that just because Vol . 2 isn't exactly what you expect based on the action-packed first volume , that isn't necessarily a bad thing . What you will find is a beautiful , story-driven adventure with dynamic , real characters . It's a character study ; a love story written in blood . And it is spectacular .
And all this praise is coming from someone who was never a fan of samurai movies , despises most all anime , and finds old spaghetti westerns pretty corny . Honestly , it's amazing how Quentin Tarantino can take all these elements from past movie styles and genres , and make them a million times more cool and hip than the originals could have ever been .
Hand's down , the sum of both films together make this the best effort of Tarantino's ( and Uma's ) career . Awesome movie , and highly recommended .
116 4 First off , I would like to state for the record , because people seem to be having a hard time with this one , that Kill Bill Volume 2 is NOT a sequel . It is the second half of one absoloutly amazing epic . One review declared that this movie was nothing but a rip-off of old kung-fu movies and spaghetti westerns . Hello , half the point of this movie is that it is a tribute to all of Tarantino's old favorites , styles and directors , which is clear if you stay through the credits and read the thank yous . This review had the gall to say that they thought that Uma Thurman wasn't right for the part . . . Quentin Tarantino WROTE the part for her . To demean this film by calling it anything less than genius is a flaw that only the Steven Segal fans of this day could commit .
Uma Thurman positively shone as The Bride , and Daryl Hannah was spectacular as Elle Driver ( not to mention the beauty of a little poetic justice ) , and Michael Madsen was as bad-ass as Michael Madsen always is . And eloquent would be a severe understatement in describing David Carradine's performance as Bill . The editing , the banter , the raw emotion worked so well that you will find yourself paying to see this movie more that once . Kill Bill Volume 2 is an absolout masterpiece .
119 4 In Kill Bill , Vol . 2 , the second part of Tarantino's genre-bending epic , the director invokes the Spaghetti Western . Where Volume 1 was heavily steeped in Asian Martial Arts cinema , this one is more Western , both in the sense of the Wild West and Occidental culture . Never fear , there is plenty of action . But , as Tarantino said , Volume 1 is the questions , Volume 2 is the answers . Not surprisingly , the answers don't turn out to be as interesting as the questions . But this is an entertaining film , and it makes good on Volume 1 ' s promise . Volume 1 gave us Chapters 1 - 5 . Volume 2 is chapters 6 - 10 , in which we learn more about the wedding massacre that started the rampage and see The Bride ( Uma Thurman ) confront her former colleagues Elle Driver ( Daryl Hannah ) , Budd ( Michael Madsen ) , and , finally , Bill ( David Carradine ) .
The cast manages to come across naturally , in even the most campy scenes . David Carradine makes a charming and charismatic cold-blooded killer . Watch for Michael Parks in an impressive dual role as Mexican pimp Esteban Vihaio and , in Volume 1 , police officer Earl McGraw . His comic timing is impeccable . Chia Hui Liu ( aka Gordon Liu ) is another bit of interesting casting , as High Priest Pai Mei . Pai Mei is a character borrowed from Chinese Martial Arts cinema , whom Chia Hui Liu battled in several of those films . Volume 2 didn't generate the adrenaline rush the Volume 1 did for me . But I continue to be impressed by Tarantino's - who claims that he doesn't do noir ' - ability to reinvent neo-noir with each new film he makes . Whether he likes it or not , Tarantino will go down in cinematic history as one of the great noir auteurs .
The DVD : Bonus features include a 25 - minute making of documentary and a live performance by Robert Rodriguez ' band , Chingon , at the film's premiere . Rodriguez composed the score for the film . . . . for free . Chingon performs one song from the soundtrack . The documentary features interviews with Quentin Tarantino and the film's principle cast . It doesn't go into a lot of depth , but provides an overview of Tarantino's thinking in creating Kill Bill . Subtitles available in English , Spanish , Chinese , Japanese , and Korean . Captions in English . Dubbing available in French .
120 4 I enjoyed Kill Bill Vol 1 , it was the first Tarantino film I saw and I was stunned . Yet for all its cinematic greatness , I thought it was missing something .
Vol 2 is what it was missing .
The difference between the two is like night and day ( no gore in KB2 ) ; yet they complete each other in a way I cannot describe . KB2 focuses on the characters and gives us the much-needed stories behind the Bride and Bill , the characters we care most about going into the 2nd volume . The Bride's real name is finally revealed ( yes , the bleeps were meant to be there ) and we realize that we've been hearing her name all along ( one of Tarantino's favorites : messing with the audience ) . Thurman's performance as the Bride will be the defining point of her career - - she is infinitely more human yet still the killing machine from KB1 .
Other notable characters :
~ Michael Madsen as Budd - - great perfomance , wonderfully sadistic
~ Gordon Lui as Pei Mei - - hilarious new character , the Bride's martial arts trainer , who is introduced with an enticing backstory . Your jaw drops when he is introduced because he lives up to his initial description .
~ Darryl Hannah as Elle - - best villian in the film , she has great lines that are delivered with the utmost perfection . I esp like her devilishly entertaining exchange with Budd .
~ Michael Parks as Esteban - - Charming and interesting , he has great dialogue with the Bride .
~ David Carradine as Bill - - Phew , what to say here . Simply astonishing . I'm not sure whether to love him or hate him , a new dimension to Bill is revealed that shows his complexity . Carradine is perfect for the part ; the way he brandishes a butcher knife for making a sandwhich and talks to the Bride makes me wonder where he's been all these years .
The dialogue is the highlight of KB2 , but Tarantino's film techniques are breathtaking . The Bride's initial confrontation with Budd ( with Budd staring into the cliffs as if expecting his attacker to pounce from the darkness ) and later her dramatic escape attempt ( which begins with a spine-tingling close up of a nail being hammered into a coffin , followed by an intense barrage of sound ) reach the highest levels of suspense I have ever seen in a movie . The Bride's battle with Elle may be the best close-quarters fight scene ever to grace the screen , and the dramatic music and tremendous build up during the fight lead to its curveball ending , which has you simultaneously squirming and clamoring for more .
I highly encourage that KB1 is seen first . . . it makes KB2 more suspenseful by tenfold ( because KB1 hints at what will happen in KB2 ) but it is not necessary to understand what's going on . If you thought KB1 was too gory or lacked a plot , KB2 is the remedy .
KB2 has something for everyone ; action , suspense , comedy , romance ( yup , not a typo ) , beautiful cinematography , tasty and * insightful * dialogue - - I just never wanted it to end .
Quite simply , films like the Kill Bills are the reason I go to the movies in the first place . After seeing these ( which inspired me to see QT's other films ) I will never look at another movie the same way again - - I don't know how to describe it , but Tarantino makes all other films seem unworthy to share the silver screen .
121 4 I mean what did you go into a movie called Kill Bill expecting . Also it is a tarantino movie so you had to expect the dialogue to be extremely interesting . I bet if John Wayne was around today , he woould say , goddam that was good . I would actually recommend part 2 over part 1 for non kung fu fans , they are 2 totally different movies . And I actually like 2 better because of the addition of Pei Mei . I thought it was a little odd that he was not portryed as the shaolin traitor as , well , that is what he was and that is where the term White Brow and the evil association comes from . But that is tarantino's brilliance , they don't even tell you whether or not he is the shaolin traitor . They don't let you know whether he is good or bad . I would guess that he was set in a time before he betrayed shaolin , hell I don't even know , but a great appearence . So they couldn't get the guy who always played Pei Mei ( Lo lieh ) because he unfortunately died right before filming . So he got the actor who fought Pei Mei in the classic Fists of the White Lotus , that's right Masterkiller himself , Gordon Liu . He is also in the first movie but I will let you watch and discover his unbelievable shaolin skills in the first movie for yourself . Alright , if you can't find him , he is the leader of the crazy 88 ' s , the guy with the mask over the top part of his face . There is also a character actor who plays a different role in each movie . So Pei Mei comes in and again tarantino manages to match his excellent dialogue with brialliant fight scenes . Or better descriptionwould be - - - fight special effects . Still good action though . It gets devastatingly sad at the end and the I would have really liked the final fight scene to have been a good one . But that is not really whaty this movie was about . But fyi-this scene comes from Brigitte Lin's Deadful Melody . But overall Kill Bill is WAY better than that flick . It was a showcase of tarantin's briliantly written movie and more than excaptable kung fu action . So please , don't act like you didn't know what this movie was going to be about before you watch it . I mean did oyu just watch the first five minites so you could make sure you didn't like it ? That sucks !
So just like ALL of tarantino's movies , he makes a MOVIE . Something for you to watch and enjoy . This is not a guy who goes through all this just to make money . He does it for the sole reason of wanting to let people see awesome movies .
The music continues to be wonderful with a mix of original scoring and more classics .
The special features are again really nothing at all just like Part 1 and you people do all realize that a special edition is bound to come out . Whenever Quentin's next mvoei comes out , is when I am really hoping that they release it . i guarantee it will be at least a 2 disc and am hoing for a 3 disc or something . Any movie buffs have an early word on this ? If so please tell me .
122 4 Apparently , Tarantino had too much material to make one movie . However , it seems that there isn't enough to make two movies . Although the film has some great moments , and a fantastic soundtrack , it ends up being drawn out in places . Obviously , the interest in seeing this film , to most people , is to find out ' how it ends ' . The last scenes between Thurman and Carradine are positively soporific . Too much small talk . Personally , I feel that Tarantino could have achieved just as much by making one epic volume . . . . and cutting out the trivia of the second film .
123 4 This review is from :
Kill Bill - Volume Two ( DVD )
Now really , Quentin , we all wanted to know at the end of Volume I what the flap was all about - - but you really mean to tell us all this blood and gore all over the floor was because the ole green-eyed monster reared its ugly head ? Bill got jealous when his Bride dumped him for another guy ? How mundane can you get ? Well , I guess it's as good a reason as any , but why did Bill have to take out the whole wedding party ? Talk about overkill . . .
Okay , I have a problem with the underlying motives , but Kill Bill 2 is as stylish as its predecessor , without all the carnage . The cast is superb . David Carradine makes a predictably revolting Bill , but the movie is stolen by Liu Cha Hui as the Bride's sadistic tutor Pai Mei ; the sequence which shows the Bride's training under this spellbinding maniac is easily the best thing in the film .
The other sequences showing the Bride getting revenge on Bill's assassination team are pretty good on their own ; there is something deliciously satisfying about the Bride popping out Daryl Hannah's one good eye instead of killing her outright , leaving her blind for the rest of her life and probably wishing she had been killed instead . But the final sequence , showing the Bride reunited with her offspring , somehow doesn't jibe with the rest of the movie ; it's hard to reconcile the image the Bride as a doting mommy beside that of an obsessed killing machine . But Kill Bill was never about substance ; it's all about style , and on that basis it can stand on its own any day . Like its predecessor , it doesn't measure up to Pulp Fiction , Tarantino's masterpiece , but it's great fun in its own right .
124 4 Now really , Quentin , we all wanted to know at the end of Volume I what the flap was all about - - but you really mean to tell us all this blood and gore all over the floor was because the ole green-eyed monster reared its ugly head ? Bill got jealous when his Bride dumped him for another guy ? How mundane can you get ? Well , I guess it's as good a reason as any , but why did Bill have to take out the whole wedding party ? Talk about overkill . . .
Okay , I have a problem with the underlying motives , but Kill Bill 2 is as stylish as its predecessor , without all the carnage . The cast is superb . David Carradine makes a predictably revolting Bill , but the movie is stolen by Liu Cha Hui as the Bride's sadistic tutor Pai Mei ; the sequence which shows the Bride's training under this spellbinding maniac is easily the best thing in the film .
The other sequences showing the Bride getting revenge on Bill's assassination team are pretty good on their own ; there is something deliciously satisfying about the Bride popping out Daryl Hannah's one good eye instead of killing her outright , leaving her blind for the rest of her life and probably wishing she had been killed instead . But the final sequence , showing the Bride reunited with her offspring , somehow doesn't jibe with the rest of the movie ; it's hard to reconcile the image the Bride as a doting mommy beside that of an obsessed killing machine . But Kill Bill was never about substance ; it's all about style , and on that basis it can stand on its own any day . Like its predecessor , it doesn't measure up to Pulp Fiction , Tarantino's masterpiece , but it's great fun in its own right .
125 4 Kill Bill Vol . 2 is the best film of 2004 ! Before I got any further , I must say that some amazon reviewers are idiots ! ! ! These morons are giving this amazing film one star because of its lack of action ? I mean , come on , Kill Bill Vol . 2 has so much to offer . It has great acting and an awesome plot . What more can anyone ask for ? If people are giving this film one star for its lack of action , they are simply idiots ! There is so much more to a movie than just action . If you guys want to see non stop action , then go check out a Jet Li film or something . Anyhow , I thought Kill Bill Vol . 2 was a lot better than the first . It had a better ending and the story felt more complete . So go out and get the film when it comes out !
126 4 I thoroughly enjoyed the first installment , of Tarantino's quirky homage to ultra violence , spaghetti westerns , and martial arts movies , and was looking forward to this closing sequel . I gave 3.5 stars and that really is a stretch , the pace and absorbing direction of the first explosive film have seemingly evaporated . This is way way way tooooooo long , with overdone scenes , close ups and dramatic music , in an attempt I presume to give an artistic flair and fill in the drama . A fair amount of back story though essential is also overly protracted , and the end result leaves you feeling a little cheated . Were this a stand alone sequel , you could be more forgiving , but as an original single movie broken into two volumes , this is a let down . I think it was right to break the movie up , but whereas the first movies 111 minutes flew by , this marathon 137 minutes drags annoyingly . It seems as though the editing room went into overdrive in an attempt to pad out this movie which has a very large filler scenes feel to it . I did enjoy seeing the story close out , but would have enjoyed it much more with more action , less talk , and about 30 minutes less running time . Not bad , but not great .
128 4 Kill Bill1 was a delightful comic book action adventure . Uma Thurman was a John Wayne-like vengeance killer , and the whole film was violent , funny , daring , witty , and it had a wonderful soundtrack . But in the end , it seemed more comic book fantasy than a real film . It was basically a pastiche of fight scenes , some with a cheeky humor . Quentin Tarantino promised that Kill Bill 2 would have the depth and emotion that Kill Bill 1 lacked . For once , this wasnt Hollywood spin .
The Bride ( Uma Thurman ) is back , and she still wants to , well , Kill Bill ( a deliciously smooth-talking David Carradine ) . But there are flashbacks of the Bride's past life . As is usual with Tarantino films Kill Bill2 is filled with campy , colorful side characters , from a sadistic , beard-twirling kung fu master Pai Mei ( Cha Hui Liu , who steals every scene he's in ) to Daryl Hannah as Elle Driver , who is , as she would say , very cool , and Michael Madsen as the strangely pathetic Budd . There's also a lot of violence , but like Kill Bill 1 it's of the campy , comic-book variety . Tarantino's lightning-quick cuts and fast-paced style prevent the movie from becoming repetitive or predictable . ) . As a result , KB2 is not purely a continuation of KB1 . In fact , KB1 seems in this context almost an appendix to KB2 . KB2 has more heart , more substance .
Uma Thurman surpasses her performance in Kill Bill 1 , if possible . She's gutsy , charming , scary , funny , and touching . I don't think I've ever rooted so hard for an assassin to succeed .
053 4 Quentin Tarantino's second half of his epic is a true mark of a master filmmaker at his best . While the first film pays tribute to the highly stylize revenge films of the seventies , the last half pays tribute to the dark and complex films that made the seventies such a celebrated time in cinema . The story progresses into a moody and complex film about violence , honor and human frailty that is a true treat to behold . Any other filmmaker would have kept the pace of the first film by adding more violence but Tarantino gives a human aspect to the last half of his epic and makes his over the top characters more human and more complex in order to give the revenge aspect of the film a little more meaning . Uma Thurman once again is great as our heroine who still is after the man who wronged her and David Carradine is great as her nemesis Bill and he adds a funny , touching and yet menacing aspect to his character that makes his demise a real treat to wait for . This is a real classic in Pulp cinema and Quentin Tarantino cements his mark in cinematic history with this fine epic that will be celebrate for years to come .
032 4 This movie was better than the first movie in almost every way . The story was explained more clearly , the acting was much better , and the script had some of the richest dialogue i've ever heard in a movie . There may be less action than in the first movie , but the great story makes up for it . Quentin Tarantino , you've done it again . I eagerly await your next movie .
034 4 I am a HUGE fan of Quentin Tarantino's work , i love his movies and think they are so well done . This movie however is less violent than the first , and i thank him for that , because the first movies violence was to explicit , bloody , and just over the top gore with very little plot , i thought it could have been better , so i was dreading to watch this movie in fear it would be the same thing . However , it turned out to be much different , and is just a wonderful action / thriller rich in surprise , dark humor , and action sequences that will blow your mind !
036 4 I really enjoyed this movie . I think Quintin was very creative in putting it all togather , beleive me it couldn't have gotten any better . Some may think Quintin is over doing it , i think everything is possible . Uma really shocked everyone with her stellar performance , her facial expression really showed desire and ambition for revenge . I really loved the epilogue in the begining of the second movie , the acting was awsome and loved the cameo appearance of Sameul L . Jackson . Every sowrd lover , martial artist out there will love this movie . The story is excellent with excellent revealing of plot and battle scenes .
065 4 Michael Madsen vs . Uma Thurman with no holds barred-does it get any better than this ? For pure cinematic enjoyment , this has to be the best Quentin ever . . . . . . . . . .
090 4 Quentin Tarantino at his best ! This is a movie TO SEE ABSOLUTELY ! ! !
104 4 The Kill Bill series is a real masterpiece . This review counts for both movies . They are both very entertaining works of art . The action is brutal and great , the story is excellent , the performances are total bad a $ $ , the drama is great , overall this is the greatest revenge movie ever , and is also Tarantino's best so far , i hope he continues making movies until his sad sad death . Quentin is the man .
084 4 Well , after seeing the absolutely brilliant and just plain awesome Kill Bill Vol . 1 , I had my hopes very high for this one . I couldn't wait for it . But , when I left the theater , I was actually dissapointed . This one isn't at all like its predecessor . While the first one had MANY absolutely awesome fighting scenes and had great humor and a great story , this didn't like that one . First off , this one was way too long , and it went too much into detail in the past and training of the Bride . That's where it kind of lost me . Sure , the scene where she fights the Nurse is great , but that's really all . I have to admit , I liked some of the story andd it was a solid movie but was just way too slow moving . Where's the awesome fight scenes ? Where's the great humor ? I really don't know . and then the fight against Bill just didn't deliver . It was a really average and just weird fight that wasn't like what I had expected . this was a letdown . But , it still deserves 3 and 1 / 2 stars for one awesome fighting , some very neat moments , and some interesting parts . Also , watch the only deleted scene . It's a really good fight where Bill kcks a * * ! If you liked the first one , you should rent this but probably not buy it unless you're just a plain die hard fan . This movie is above average but dissapointing and unlike the wiked # 1 .
072 4 First of all , anyone who believes that Quentin Tarantino had a smash on his hands with Vol . 1 , but botched it up with Vol . 2 is SORELY mistaken . Quentin filmed both Volumes 1 and 2 as ONE FILM ! It was late in the post-production process that the decision was made to split the film into two seperate pieces . It's a package deal here . People need to judge this as one film . The second half , while slower paced , is a brilliant piece of work , and it truly wraps up this epic tale of revenge . The dialogue is pure Tarantino , and the showdown between Bill and The Bride is simply breathtaking . This is what great filmmaking is all about .
118 4 THIS MOVIE IS INCREDIBLEY GOOD . IT HAS ALL OF THE ACTION , CHARACTER , STORY , AND DRAMA YOU NEED IN A FILM .
100 4 The two films cut together would have been the way to go in my opinion . Heck as one 4 hour epic it may have been noticed by the Academy Awards just for being so incredibly unique . We all know the reason Miramax films released two movies instead of one . YOUR MONEY TIMES TWO ! Since I respect Miramax due to hundreds of quaility films , I'll let them stiff me this once . Quentin Tarantino is an amazing filmmaker , I love all his films . The ones he wrote and directed anyway . Some of the screenplays he wrote in the past were directed by others than himself . Which they were mostly cool flicks , but they might have been better had he made them himself . The reason I say this film isn't for everyone is because I have a part time job in a video store and I hear some people say how they just don't get into it . They say they didn't like the first Kill Bill and they aren't interested in bothering with the 2nd . I did get a customer to get both films and have a double feature . He later said it was one of the best film experiences he'd ever had . At first he wasn't interested in the series . Truthfully these two films together are an amazing piece of work and it's ashame to over look them . I'm not saying get the kids rounded up and have family movie night with Kill Bill , that's obvious . I hope people know that this isn't for children . It is great entertainment for grown ups who like deep , dark and dramatic sword swinging action with plenty of Tarantio style humor . So , watch'em together or watch'em seperate . . just watch'em ! ! One last thing . . Uma Thurman is in a word . . Astonishing ! !
117 4 Despite all the violence , at its core , Kill Bill 2 is a love story . The Bride , played by Uma Thurman , is physically tortured during certain scenes in this movie . However , the emotional distress she experiences concerning her feelings for Bill is extraordinary . It is obvious she is deeply conflicted and confused . It is also apparent that The Bride and Bill share a deep bond despite attempts to kill each other . This is especially evident during her the last scene involving The Bride and Bill . This movie comes highly recommended .
