Django Unstoppable

Rating: 9/10 (11 February 2013)

Although I respect his talent and originality, I've never really been a hardcore fan of Quentin Tarantino's work. As a result, I wasn't racing to the cinema once Django Unchained was released, in spite of the stellar cast and captivating trailer. When the film started, I was expecting the typical tale of vengeance portrayed in uber violent Tarantino fashion and isn't that part of the reason so many are drawn to his work? (So why chastise the man for it?)
Django Unchained is a story where a chance meeting leads to the emancipation of a slave, played by Jamie Foxx, only to see Django transform in to a skilled bounty hunter. An agreement between the mentor, Christoph Waltz, and protégé is struck which culminates in the partners rescuing Django's slave wife.
The twist about Django is, I quite enjoyed it and would argue that it's perhaps Tarantino's finest work to date! Firstly, the unexpected cameos like Don Johnson and Jonah Hill were a pleasant surprise as was the simplistic yet very amusing dialogue. When you're not chuckling at the banter, you'll be drawn in by the captivatingly raw emotion that Tarantino encapsulates perfectly. Yes, there is exceptional violence but it's about appreciating the vision rather than judging it.
One can't attribute the success of Django solely to Tarantino's talent, as it wouldn't be as entertaining without equally riveting performances from the lead characters as well as Leonardo DiCaprio. However, there is one character that stands out above the rest and that is Samuel L. Jackson's portrayal of Stephen. If you're a fan of The Boondocks, where Jackson also guest stars, Stephen is as close as you'll get to a cross between Uncle Ruckus and Stinkmeaner and the end result is absolutely hilarity!
In an industry where films are continually becoming predictable, Tarantino shares an entertaining tale with twists, turns, humour, action, drama and that fading facet, originality. With intense direction and clever writing which is complimented by outstanding performances, Django Unchaiend is one unmissable feature.
Django Unchained is definitely one to watch on the big screen!