Django Unchained (Movie Review)

I bow down to Quentin Tarantino for having given us some of the best movies I’ve ever seen. From Inglourious Basterds to Kill Bill: Vol. 1 & 2, his filmography is a collection of favorites, and now comes Django Unchained. This film, also written and directed by the master himself, has his name written all over it.

Taking on the subject of slavery is not an easy task, but Tarantino navigates it by focusing on a love story. He touches upon the brutality without depressing the audience. In fact, there is a lot of comedy that keeps the film lighthearted.

While the 165 minute duration might not be attractive to many, the director’s fan base will be in all the way. I encourage everyone to oversee the longevity of it. Thanks to that, we get a well played out film that is not rushed.

It has been three years since the last Tarantino film, and this one makes up for the wait. It is in line with what we’ve come to expect from him. This film will remind us why we idolize him.

Set in the South during 1858, two years before the Civil War, we meet Django (Jamie Foxx). He is a slave that receives training from German bounty hunter Dr. Schultz (Christoph Waltz). Django’s only dream is to be reunited with his wife Broomhilda (Kerry Washington).

A Performance That Refuses to Blink

Christoph Waltz is phenomenal and easily carries more than the first half of the film. His eloquence is magnificent, and I’m happy to see him as one of the “good guys.” He certainly is my favorite part of the film.

Foxx takes the backseat for a while, which is understandable given his character’s transformation. Once he does, he is unstoppable. Leonardo DiCaprio as a bad guy is exceptional, playing a brutal and aristocratic man used to getting his way.

There are a couple of great cameos, including Don Johnson as Big Daddy. Johnson’s bit with Jonah Hill provides comedic relief in a violent situation. The best surprise comes from Samuel L. Jackson as Stephen, Candie’s butler.

Where the Narrative Loses its Way

The makeup work on Jackson is unbelievable, and his character is hilarious and dislikable all at once. Everything he does with the role is brilliant. There’s a lot of humor in this film, which Tarantino intertwines effortlessly with the heavy subject matter.

This humor appears in dialogue, attire, and props. Because of this, the movie never feels too heavy despite the violent scenes. Tarantino believes in the magic of practical effects, creating many beautiful moments without CGI.

The film was shot in various locations, including Grand Teton. These majestic winter sceneries give a great contrast to the South. Tarantino exposes interesting things about slavery, comparing Candie’s treatment of slaves to Roman gladiators.

Violence and Revenge Abound

Tarantino punches these slave owners with words, best put in the mouth of the well-spoken Waltz. The music also pushes the western feel that the director wanted. I do wish the main character were less selfish.

Django is not out to end slavery, but only to save himself and his woman. This holds back the story for me. However, this focus prevents the film from becoming a four-hour epic.

Tarantino says it took him ten years to write this picture. As a fan of westerns, he wanted to depict the clear lines between good and evil. The look of the film and the amazing performances make for an entertaining movie.

Any fan of Tarantino’s work will enjoy this. This director doesn’t hold back when it comes to violence and blood. It is not for the squeamish, but I recommend it for its originality and laughs.