Quentin Tarantino's epic cinematic vision, "Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair," a four-hour extended cut combining "Kill Bill Vol. 1" and "Kill Bill Vol. 2" into a single feature, is finally receiving its long-awaited first-ever theatrical release. Lionsgate has unveiled a trailer for this monumental presentation, which boasts a runtime of 281 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission, making it a truly immersive experience for fans.

This comprehensive edition of the beloved action classic has been kept under wraps for many years since its initial showings, making this upcoming rollout a significant event. Lionsgate has scheduled the release of "The Whole Bloody Affair" for December 5th, with plans to distribute it across all major markets throughout North America. In a special treat for cinephiles, the distribution strategy also includes exclusive screenings in both 35mm and 70mm formats, with newly struck prints likely prepared specifically for this release to ensure optimal viewing quality.

The extended cut has a notable history of limited appearances. It previously graced the screen at the Tarantino-owned Vista Theater in Los Angeles during an eventized limited run last summer. For those showings, the theater utilized Tarantino's personal print, originally made for the film's Cannes premiere in 2006, which notably featured French subtitles. Attendees of these special screenings also experienced an intermission strategically placed between the narrative events of "Vol. 1" and "Vol. 2," mimicking the original theatrical split.

It is widely known that "Kill Bill" was initially conceived and filmed as one continuous feature. However, due to its expansive runtime, it was ultimately divided into two separate installments for its original theatrical run. These parts were released approximately six months apart, with "Vol. 1" debuting in October 2003 and "Vol. 2" following in April 2004. Together, these two films achieved considerable success, collectively grossing over $330 million worldwide.

Following the split release, Tarantino later premiered "The Whole Bloody Affair" two years later at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, offering a glimpse of his original artistic intent. The combined edition then remained largely unseen until 2011, when it was screened at the director's other Los Angeles venue, the New Beverly Cinema. After this, it was once again vaulted, resurfacing only for the aforementioned run at the Vista in July, leading up to its much-anticipated widespread theatrical debut this December.