Cinema fans across the UK have a date with a modern classic tonight, as a film repeatedly hailed by audiences as "the best film of all time" is set to broadcast on free-to-air television. The iconic Kill Bill: Vol. 1, the first chapter in Quentin Tarantino's brutal and stylish revenge saga, will air on ITV4 at 11.15pm on Thursday 15 January.
A Cult Classic's Journey to the Small Screen
Directed by the legendary Quentin Tarantino, the 2003 film boasts an all-star cast that reads like a who's who of cinematic talent. Uma Thurman leads as The Bride, supported by Lucy Liu, Vivica A. Fox, Michael Madsen, Daryl Hannah, David Carradine, Sonny Chiba, and Julie Dreyfus. The plot is a relentless tale of vengeance, following a former assassin who wakes from a four-year coma after her wedding day is violently interrupted by her ex-lover, Bill. She then embarks on a bloody mission to settle the score with everyone responsible.
The film was a major commercial success, achieving a significant return on investment. According to data from IMDb, Kill Bill: Vol. 1 earned over $180.9 million (approximately £134.6 million) globally against a production budget estimated at $30 million (around £22.3 million).
Audience Acclaim and Lasting Legacy
On the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, the film is adorned with countless five-star ratings from devoted fans. One reviewer declared it their "absolute favorite movie of all time," noting its rewatchability. Another praised its masterful blend of elements, stating: "The music. The siren. The Japanese club scene... It brilliantly shifts between violence, humour, camp, and trope. It is a kickass, beautiful, entertaining movie."
The film's impact on popular culture and its technical artistry are frequently highlighted. Enthusiasts point to its "raw performances," exceptional fight choreography, and its powerful focus on female characters. One detailed review noted its status as a cinematic landmark, filled with iconic scenes and paying homage to Akira Kurosawa's Seven Samurai, calling it a "must-see film for cinema lovers."
Why It Still Resonates
For many, Kill Bill: Vol. 1 represents the pinnacle of Tarantino's genre-blending style—a love letter to martial arts, samurai, and exploitation films of the 1970s, wrapped in a compelling, female-driven narrative. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by viewers who continue to discover it years later, with one fan admitting, "I can’t believe I slept on this movie for so many years."
For those yet to experience its unique magic or fans eager to revisit The Bride's roaring rampage of revenge, ITV4 provides the perfect opportunity tonight at 11.15pm. This broadcast is a chance to see why this film has secured its place in the pantheon of greats.
