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After seeing Quentin Tarantino’s Django unchained for the first time, I was immediately reminded of how much I love, and had missed, seeing Tarantino’s style on the big screen. The second time around, I realized that this could possibly be one of my new favorite films. Based in the 1860’s pre-civil war America, we are introduced to our main character, Django (played by Jamie Foxx), a slave being transported through Texas after being sold at a slave auction and separated from his wife. Dr. King Shultz (Christoph Waltz), who is introduced in the same scene, is a northerner who despises slavery, and a former Dentist who we later come to realize, is a Bounty Hunter. Luckily for Django, Dr. Schultz is in the need of his help, in order to catch and kill his wanted bounties.
Together, the two make a great team of Bounty Hunters, and Django is finally given a chance at freedom thanks to Schultz. While it all seems like its going well, Django explains that he will begin his search for his wife Brünhilde (Kerry Washington) a slave who was given her name by her German Masters. Dr. Schultz, being that he is also German, is intrigued by the fact that a slave speaks his tongue, and promises Django that he will help him find her. The two come to find out that Brünhilde was sold to one of the biggest plantations in the country, Candieland, who is owned by the very narcissistic southern racist Calvin Candie (played by Leonardo DiCaprio).
The two strategize in order to get Candie’s attention, and persuade him to show them his plantation, where they know Brünhilde will be. As they arrive at Candieland, we are introduced to Candie’s household attendant, Stephen (played by Samuel L. Jackson), who is entirely devoted and loyal to his master. When things go south (literally), things get a little out of control, and Tarantino takes this moment to express all he loves to incorporate (guns, guts, BOOMS and BAMS). How does the story end for these guys? You’ll just have to watch to find out.
Very deservingly, Waltz won the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor on his role as Dr. Schultz. His character’s eccentricity and witty sarcasm is not to be missed. Leonardo DiCaprio incredibly portrays Calvin Candie, with a performance that is unforgettable, such that it landed him a nomination at the Golden Globes, but regrettably, not the award (maybe next time Leo).
In my opinion, this is Tarantino’s best, since Kill Bill Vol. 1, and I was very happy to see all the blood splashing, cheesy sound effects, subtle comic reliefs and pure exceptional directing overall. Tarantino took home the Golden Globe for Best Screenplay, which he should have seen coming, after this phenomenal piece.
I personally respect Tarantino, and his bravery for telling this story. I am sure he was prepared for all the positive – and most of all – negative, feedback. If you feel that you might be offended at the use of the “N-word”, refrain from seeing this film, since it is said a total of 110 times. Jamie Foxx explains that “the elements of slavery and oppression in Django are not meant to be politically correct, in fact, ‘they’re supposed to’ make the audience angry”, so open minds everyone, don’t let this discourage you and make you miss out on an amazing movie!
Alejandra Vera
Picture Credit:
Geek Tyrant
http://geektyrant.com/news/201…
Bēhance
http://www.behance.net/gallery…
Jamie Foxx Interview:
Complex PopCulture
http://www.complex.com/pop-cul…