Django Unchained

Rating: 9/10 (29 May 2013)

Is there a Quentin Tarantino film that doesn't fail to impress? Django, in the true Tarantino format, was awesome. First, I must start off by saying Christoph Waltz was ROBBED on multiple levels. He should have been nominated in the Best Actor category. He made this movie his own. But, when you are up against Daniel Day-Lewis (also an excellent actor) who is back from sabbatical, "they" had to put Waltz in the supporting category to ensure a win for both men. Lincoln was an alright film, but its the type of movie I would rather see in school.
When Waltz (or his horse) first appear, I immediately thought, Colonel Landa was back (his role from another Tarantino film) and Waltz would be playing another wonderful villain. He fooled us and became our (gulp) hero. Jamie Foxx was excellent and continues to grow as dramatic actor. I like Kerry Washington. I liked her role in the film but I felt it could have been played by any unknown actress. This is NOT to take away from Washington's training and talent, but with her tenure in the industry, she needs to be doing more challenging roles, and she will.
Leo, Leo, Leo. What was that??? This is probably one of his best roles to date. It was refreshing not to see him as a troubled soul or playing a historical character in history. He, along with Samuel L. Jackson (another Tarantino alum), should have received Oscar nominations for the supporting actor category. l lost a bet.
People (ahem, Spike Lee, whom I admire) have complained about the "massive" use of the n- word, violence, etc. Hello??? This is a film set in the South. In Mississippi. During Slavery. Enough said, right? I don't think there is any way to soften this type of film which would be an insult. Its a history that has happened and we have to accept it. Why cheapen it by making people less uncomfortable.
For more history, rent "Roots", the ENTIRE miniseries.