Uma Thurman, renowned for her iconic roles in action films, has recently shared her nuanced views on on-screen violence. In an interview with InStyle, the actress expressed a stark contrast between her professional engagements and personal preferences, stating, “I actually don’t particularly like violence. Some people really like it; I don’t like it.” This candid remark highlights her evolving perspective on a genre that has significantly shaped her career.
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Despite her notable performances in films such as *Kill Bill: Volume 1* and *Kill Bill: Volume 2*, Thurman has consciously steered away from action roles for nearly two decades. “When I see artful movement, I can enjoy violence and action because I’m blown away by it the way I would be if I saw an extraordinary dance performance,” Thurman elaborated. This artistic lens has served as a criteria for her project selections; she now evaluates scripts based on whether the violence is “motivated,” “beautiful,” and “genuinely executed.” Only those that satisfy these standards warrant her involvement.
Thurman’s return to action films was marked by her role in *Pretty Lethal*, a project that merges elements of ballet and horror. This stylised thriller features an ensemble cast, including Maddie Ziegler, Lana Condor, and Iris Apatow. The plot unfolds as a group of ballerinas find themselves marooned in a sinister, remote inn en route to a prestigious dance competition. Thurman, portraying a former ballerina with a “unique physical disability,” seeks revenge amidst the film’s bizarre and thrilling backdrop.
Describing the tone of *Pretty Lethal*, Thurman remarked, “It’s not your everyday streaming Amazon premiere movie. It’s girly, and then it’s wild. It’s gruesome, funny, and powerful. It’s so over the top, it’s above the top.” Her enthusiasm for the project reflects a desire to engage with material that transcends conventional storytelling, highlighting the importance of creativity in her decisions.
The actress also acknowledged how working alongside a younger generation of talent has added depth to her experience. “It really moved me to see them,” she said, commending her co-stars for their “commitment and passion.” This recognition of the new wave of performers signifies Thurman’s appreciation for the evolving landscape of the film industry, as well as her continuing journey as an artist.
In 2025, Thurman made her return to action with *The Old Guard 2*, appearing alongside Charlize Theron. This film marked her re-entry into the genre, which she had previously approached with caution after the success of *Kill Bill*. During an appearance on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*, Thurman explained her decision to step back from the action genre, emphasising her desire to protect the legacy of her earlier work. “I never really followed *Kill Bill* up with action because I didn’t want to be in a whole bunch of ‘B’ action movies,” she noted.
Her careful approach to selecting roles stems from the overwhelming public association with *Kill Bill*, a film that has continued to define her career. She remarked on the constant reminders and expectations that followed her iconic performance, revealing the pressure of maintaining the integrity of her filmography. “When you do *Kill Bill*, you never stop hearing about it. It’s like, ‘Oh, got to be very careful about what I do next,’” she said.
Thurman’s reflections on her career reveal a multifaceted perspective on the relationship between her personal feelings and professional choices. As she continues to navigate her career, her willingness to engage with innovative and unconventional projects indicates a commitment to redefining her trajectory as an actress. In a landscape where action films dominate, Uma Thurman is carving out her own niche, demonstrating that even within genres known for their brutality, an artist can seek out beauty and meaning. Through her thoughtful selection of roles, Thurman remains a significant figure in cinema, advocating for a more profound understanding of violence in the arts.