Classic Tarantino, with little charm or wit

Rating: 3/10 (12 May 2013)

I understand that some people might not agree with this review. It is undoubtedly biased as I strongly dislike Tarantino (though this is my favourite of his films).
Don't get me wrong - this film has its merits. The beginning of the movie is relatively enjoyable and follows a well-written but poorly directed story. Towards the end, however, things fall apart and Django's actions even disagree with his character. It becomes an unpleasant viewing experience and I was left wishing that the script would have been given to someone else, as the movie could have been so much better.
Everything from the comedy to the violence is disappointing, and - though I understand that it is supposed to convey the style of, and pay homage to, the old Spaghetti Westerns - it fails to remind me of any previous Western that I've seen. In addition, the main roles are poorly acted, with the exception of Monsieur Candy (Leonardo DiCaprio), which is a real shame. A good actor can save a poor film (take the Bourne Ultimatum, for example), but Tarantino doesn't seem to appreciate that. DiCaprio's monologue was the only part of the film I genuinely enjoyed, and I wish he had been cast in a larger role (such as Django's sidekick and mentor). As usual, the director makes his own characteristic appearance, which is as out-of-place as ever.
Django Unchained comes across as a crass, unentertaining mess, which almost made me leave the theatre half way through. I am quite surprised at some of the reviews I have seen on here, but perhaps I don't understand it fully. Nevertheless, my view is this: Django's Unchained isn't worth watching (other than for DiCaprio's impressive monologue).