Better Than Inglorious Basterds

Rating: 8/10 (23 August 2015)

I enjoyed this flick more than Tarantino's previous film. Similar in style and scope (violent movies that use satire, gore, comedy, and excitement with relish) about the evils of one aspect of society. But with this, it becomes much more interesting with the deeper involvement of characters.
It's not without flaws though. The running time is frankly too long. Unnecessary. The film meddles in mediocre plot-lines for a while before the main conflict arises with the wife. And when the action comes, it comes almost out of nowhere and doesn't go away. Most of the earlier moments contain very little violence.
But characterization is perfect. Every performance is excellent. Particular applause for Christopher Waltz and Leonardo DiCaprio- their "handshake" scene was one of the most tense I've seen and their facades show the perfect signs of cracking. Masterful.
Bottom line: it's enjoyable. As with Tarantino does, the bodies pile up and the gore may seem excessive. But there is humanity in there, as well as a deep and unflinching look at the slavery and the people trapped within that system.