Quentin Tarantino Kill Bill revenge stories have set a high standard in cinema, particularly with the 2003 release of Kill Bill, which introduced audiences to Beatrix Kiddo, a former assassin on a relentless quest for vengeance after being left for dead. For viewers captivated by this intense tale, there is a wide range of television shows that explore themes of revenge with unique twists and gripping narratives.
These series span genres and styles but share the raw emotional power and fierce determination found in Kill Bill, making them essential viewing for anyone drawn to a compelling story of retaliation and justice.
Frank Castle’s Vengeful Journey in The Punisher
The Netflix series The Punisher (2017–2019) centers on Frank Castle, played by Jon Bernthal, a man driven by vengeance after the brutal loss of his family. Like Beatrix Kiddo, Castle moves through the gritty streets of New York City seeking answers and retribution against those who targeted his loved ones. Drawing from Marvel Comics, the series balances intense action with a thought-provoking exploration of grief and anger.
While it may not match the relentless pace of Kill Bill, The Punisher’s dark and gritty storyline dives deeply into themes of justice and vendetta, making it a standout revenge narrative despite its cancellation in 2019.
Modern Power Plays and Retaliation in Dynasty
The 2017 reboot of Dynasty reimagines the original’s focus on wealth and family drama into a sharper, more revenge-driven saga. Fallon Carrington, portrayed by Elizabeth Gillies, transforms into a cunning businesswoman betrayed by her own family, particularly her father, Grant Show’s Blake Carrington. After being passed over for the helm of Carrington Atlantic, Fallon’s fightback involves launching her own company to reclaim power and revenge.
The show’s modernization of classic family and corporate warfare reflects a different brand of revenge — less about physical violence and more about strategic maneuvering and emotional retaliation, with Fallon’s calculated moves underscored by intelligence and style.
Tense Rivalries Escalate in Beef
Netflix’s miniseries Beef (2023–) stars Steven Yeun and Ali Wong as two strangers embroiled in an escalating feud born from a minor road rage incident. This story captures the chaotic spirals that can result from everyday conflicts blown out of proportion. The humor laced throughout contrasts sharply with the deeper emotional layers of resentment and grudges that fuel the characters’ spiral.
Beef offers a fresh and unconventional take on revenge, mixing intense drama with comedic elements to portray a conflict that grows far beyond its initial spark, making it both relatable and unexpectedly profound.
Searching for Identity and Justice in Kevin Can F**k Himself
Kevin Can F**k Himself (2021–2022), created by Valerie Armstrong and starring Annie Murphy, challenges traditional revenge storytelling by blending dark comedy and drama. The protagonist, Allison McRoberts, navigates life with an emotionally neglectful husband, portrayed by Eric Petersen. The show’s format shifts between a sitcom style when Allison is with her husband and a more realistic and dramatic tone in her personal quest for self-discovery and empowerment.
This series presents revenge not as physical retaliation but as the struggle to reclaim one’s identity and autonomy, deviating from the expected revenge narrative and offering a tense, emotional exploration of liberation.
From Obsession to Vengeance in Killing Eve
Initially a thrilling cat-and-mouse game between MI5 agent Eve Polastri (Sandra Oh) and assassin Villanelle (Jodie Comer), Killing Eve (2018–2022) evolves into a darker revenge drama by its third season. Eve’s personal loss propels her to investigate The Twelve, an ominous organization responsible for devastating events in her life, igniting a relentless quest for payback that mirrors the intensity of Kill Bill’s narrative.
With Eve’s transformation into a driven avenger, the series builds on intricate character dynamics and suspenseful action, engaging viewers who appreciate complex, character-driven revenge plots.
Uncovering Conspiracies and Seeking Retribution in The Terminal List
Chris Pratt stars in The Terminal List (2022–), where his character, Navy SEAL Lieutenant Commander James Reece, returns home to face a labyrinth of conspiracies aimed at him and his family. As Reece uncovers the truth behind these schemes, his journey turns into a mission for justice and revenge against the shadowy forces threatening his loved ones.
This show combines intense military action with a personal vendetta, presenting a straightforward yet gripping revenge story anchored by Pratt’s determined portrayal of a man fighting against overwhelming odds.
Legal Battles and Revenge in How to Get Away with Murder
How to Get Away with Murder (2014–2020) follows the brilliant Annalise Keating, played by Viola Davis, as she and her students become embroiled in a deadly conspiracy. Initially not focused purely on revenge, the show evolves into a deeper exploration of retribution after the murder of Wes Gibbins (Alfred Enoch), sparking Annalise’s quest to find the killer.
The intense courtroom drama, elevated by high stakes and emotional conflict, creates a revenge narrative rooted in law, loyalty, and justice, providing a powerful and compelling story arc that resonates with viewers.
Dexter’s Unconventional Reckoning Against Crime
Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), the Miami-based forensic blood spatter analyst and secret vigilante, drives the narrative in Dexter (2006–2013). His quest for revenge is not as straightforward as seeking one enemy but targeting criminals who escape justice. Rooted in the trauma of witnessing his mother’s murder as a child, Dexter’s vigilantism comes across as his way to balance the scales.
The show’s blend of brutality and psychological depth offers an atypical revenge story, where morality is ambiguous and the protagonist’s cold efficiency parallels Kill Bill’s stylized, relentless pursuit of vengeance.
Classic Revenge Drama in Revenge
The ABC series Revenge (2011–2015) lives up to its name by telling the story of Emily VanCamp’s character returning to the affluent Hamptons under a new identity. She seeks to dismantle the families who betrayed her during her youth. The series captivated audiences with its intricate plots full of danger and scandal, bringing classic revenge themes to life on television.
Revenge’s compelling blend of suspense and emotional depth made it a popular drama during its run, perfect for viewers who enjoy a traditional yet thrilling revenge storyline with complex interpersonal dynamics.
Sydney Bristow’s Espionage and Retribution in Alias
Alias (2001–2006), starring Jennifer Garner as Sydney Bristow, follows a young woman drawn into a life of espionage unaware her agency is a front for deeper deception. Beginning as a high-stakes spy thriller, the show shifts toward a revenge narrative from the third season onward as Sydney battles SD-6, the organization she originally infiltrated.
The series combines intense action with personal betrayal and retribution, marking it as a standout revenge drama that shares stylistic and thematic elements with Kill Bill’s Beatrix Kiddo storyline, showcasing a heroine who is both vulnerable and formidable.
