Though I’m usually pretty conflicted concerning the work of Quentin Tarantino, I absolutely adored 2009’s Inglorious Basterds, and the truth is that the unconventional war film largely improved my opinion of the controversial director. Needless to say, when it was announced that Tarantino would be reuniting with Basterds breakout star Christoph Waltz to deliver homage to old school Spaghetti Westerns, my interest was piqued. Add Leonardo DiCaprio, playing against type as a villain, to the mix, and Django Unchained was quickly shaping into a thoroughly solid release that could potentially close out 2012 on a very high note. Granted, given the controversial subject matter and undoubtedly irreverent tone, Django Unchained certainly wasn’t without controversy leading up to release, but I’ve never been one to let political correctness stop me from enjoying a film. Trailers promised Tarantino’s signature blend of comedy and gore, and it certainly didn’t hurt that critics were already declaring Django Unchained as one of the best films of the year; one that would earn its cast plenty of recognition come Awards Season.
Shockingly
gory, offensive, and vulgar, Django
Unchained is easily one of the most ridiculously entertaining films of the
year; a guilty pleasure anchored by stylish filmmaking, exciting action,
engrossing characters, and powerhouse acting.
Once again, Christoph Waltz steals the show, emerging as a thoroughly
likable hero who manages to balance a violent duplicitous nature with genuine
pathos and charm; and yet, the most memorable role belongs to Leonardo
DiCaprio, who proves a shocking acting range as the psychotic villain…my god,
this guy NEEDS an Oscar! And while the
action helps make Django an energetic
Western, I was pleasantly surprised by the levels of humor present, whether
that involved a hysterical Samuel L. Jackson, or a truly clever exchange
between bandits during a midnight raid…but don’t worry, anytime it seems like
things are getting too festive, someone’s head is blown off! The long running time and offensive nature of
the film can be a bit of a turn-off, but the filming style keeps your attention
glued; and this was never sold as a family film, so no one should be pissed by
racial slurs or the repercussions of taking children to a clearly R-rated
film. In the end, whether you are a fan
of Tarantino, Westerns, or simply looking for some entertaining violence, I
guarantee that you will love Django
Unchained.
