Why is Season 5 of Fargo a Glorified Kill Bill Rip-off?

In the highly anticipated season 5 of the acclaimed television series Fargo, viewers were treated to an array of captivating storylines and complex characters. However, for many critics and fans, the show's finale might have sparked a wave of discussions about plagiarism, particularly when compared to Quentin Tarantino's iconic film Kill Bill. Season 5 of Fargo, set in the vast and chilly landscapes of Minnesota and North Dakota, seems to have borrowed heavily from the themes and stylistic elements of the martial arts revenge epic. This article delves into the various aspects that make Season 5 of Fargo appear as a glorified Kill Bill rip-off.

Origins of Influence: Kwai and Kill Bill

The term "rip-off" in the context of film and television refers to the unauthorized copying of artistic elements, often heavily influencing the direction, style, or plot of the work. Although there are no formal claims of plagiarism, some viewers and critics have likened Season 5 of Fargo to Tarantino's Kill Bill.

Japanese Influences in Kill Bill

Kill Bill is well-known for its Japanese cultural and aesthetic references. Quentin Tarantino drew inspiration from a string of Japanese films that blended revenge, martial arts, and dark humor. Notable influences include:

These films, which are renowned for their martial arts sequences and distinctive visual style, heavily influenced the structure and feel of Kill Bill and its sequel.

Set Pieces and Storylines

By setting Season 5 of Fargo in the vast landscapes of Minnesota and North Dakota, the show creators crafted an elegantly brutal backdrop that mirrors that of Tarantino's vision. The Fargo series, known for its intricate and violent plotlines, produced the ultimate "pair of samurai thighs" in the form of Patty Jenkins, a single woman with exceptional martial arts skills. This aspect is one of the most striking similarities between the two productions.

The Kill Bill films, with their distinctive design and constant motion, always have a certain rhythmic quality to their story sequences, which is evident in the carefully choreographed and emotionally tense story arcs of Season 5 of Fargo. The nearly symbolic use of violence and carnage for the sake of a singularly justified mission is another key similarity.

Themes and Visual Style

Beyond the simple visual and narrative elements, the thematic elements of Season 5 of Fargo bear a striking resemblance to Kill Bill. Both series explore themes of vengeance, justice, and the lengths to which a woman will go to avenge herself. The visual style of Season 5, characterized by dark, moody cinematography and meticulously designed fight scenes, is reminiscent of the meticulous and graphic visuals found in Kill Bill.

The meticulous choreography and the art of revenge

Like Kill Bill, Season 5 of Fargo also features a relentless, almost clinical, approach to revenge. Each protagonist's journey from the point of subjugation to the point of retribution is a carefully crafted narrative, challenging both the viewer and the characters themselves. The fight scenes in Season 5, marked by brutal and precise action, are reminiscent of the flashy, but also methodical, execution seen in Kill Bill.

Conclusion: A Mixture of Inspiration and Innovation

While the similarities between Season 5 of Fargo and Kill Bill might seem overt, it is important to acknowledge that both productions draw from a well of similar influences and themes. The creators of Fargo clearly paid tribute to the unparalleled style and storytelling of Kill Bill, but managed to infuse their narrative with a unique twist and a sense of homegrown American storytelling.

The martial arts and revenge themes, combined with the visual design and the overall narrative structure, solidify the connection between the two. However, it's the underlying moral and emotional depth that allows each series to stand on its own merit, making each a valuable entry in its respective genre.

In the end, while Season 5 of Fargo might be a glorified Kill Bill rip-off to some, it remains a testament to the enduring power of collaborative storytelling and the ability of creators to adapt and innovate within a wide-ranging influence.