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Quickie Review - Django Unchained

Let's start off with this statement.  Django Unchained is a masterpiece.  I would argue that it is his greatest accomplishment in film making and knowing what the movie cost, it's impossible to compare to his earlier, low-budget gems.  The movie is nearly flawless in so many ways, it's mind-boggling.  First there is the cinematography which is amazing. Each scene is so perfectly set, but never to the point of distraction.  Then there is the soundtrack.  A mix of classical, blues and modern rap.  There are the costumes, that in some cases play a role themselves.  Finally, there is the acting, which is impeccable.  I'll rush through this one and say Jamie Foxx played his greatest role, DiCaprio and Samuel L. Jackson were grandly despicable. Kerry Washington was absolutely enchanting (albeit a little more could have been asked of her role).  Every character actor who comes across the screen is so perfectly cast it adds to the flavor of the film immensely. Then there is Christopher Waltz.  It was my opinion that Waltz's first 15 minutes in Inglorious Basterds was arguably the best scene I've seen an actor portray, but the film ended up being awful.  In this, his first scene is incredible and it never stops.  He carries every scene he's in, using charm, wit and flat out acting chops to deliver a tole that you won't see again.  It was astounding.

Many will be bothered by the use of the N-word so many times.  Many will cringe at the violence.  Many will tire by the length of the movie.  Do not let these things distract you from what you are seeing.  It's the best spaghetti western you've ever seen.  It's the most electric cowboy film you'll ever see.  It also says a huge "Fuck You" to the worst part of this country's past and Tarantino doesn't want you to forget it.  He attacks racism in and mocks its (in one extremely funny scene especially) ignorance.  He champions those who who went through it, those who survived it, those who died and those who paved the way. Dr King Schultz is Waltz's character and this was not a mistake.  If you don't like Tarantino, this might not resonate with you, but if you do, you'll find yourself nearly cheering during parts.  Very rarely is someone allowed to make their movie, their way.  Tarantino, like he always does, pays homage to all things that matter to him, but here truly delivers a story everyone can enjoy.  Absolute perfection!

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