Django Unchained (18)

A good night out and full house to see DU now the snow has melted and escapism wanted. You have read all the good commentary, I didn't find the film too long or violent. Each scene moved me along and I only looked away during the Mandingo fight scene. Memories of Blazing Saddles at times and the film worked better as a witty pastiche than a story to be taken seriously. I could easily see it again to enjoy more of the detailing.

A half-cooked bowl of spaghetti. By no means either the best or worst of the Tarantino films that I have seen. What to dislike: Tarantino's apparently obligatory theft of music from far better westerns. The importation of Waltz (well suited to his previous role but once round the studio floor with him was enough) and the attempt to justify a reason for using him (Django's wife having been named Broomhilda/Brunhilde "von Shaft") -mein Gott das ist wunderbar?. When did winchester carbines come out? What about the Remington derringer? Is this film not, by definition, supposed to pre-date the US civil war? (perhaps Tarantino missed an opportunity to arrange dialogue for cap&ball reloading sessions?) What to like: Samuel Jackson gives an award worthy performance as an old Silver-back, his initial expressions are memorable. That the stolen music is mercifully limited to the first half. Everything else so-so, adequate performances from the rest of the cast. I really do not see this film adding anything useful to a debate on slavery, is the alternative negro word now supposed to be acceptable? If you want slow-motion carnage then the Wild Bunch was far better. Did I feel ripped off? Well no actually, anyone who volunteers to watch one of his films must surely by now know that allowances are expected. If you liked his previous go lap it up, everyone else I suggest some caution.

Typical Tarantino fare: wordy, bloody, overlong, funny distinctive. Waltz, DiCaprio and Jackson all turn in memorable performances. Like Inglourious Basterds, the film is at its best in the scenes which build up tension. Three and a half stars.

Now I have seen it, it didn't disappoint but it's not one of his best. Leo di Caprio makes a great baddie - loved Christoph Waltz's performance too. Too much theatrical blood, I felt - kind of nauseating, although for the most part, the film did indeed look good. And you could never call QT's films boring.

From the opening bars of the 'Django' theme, we know we are in familiar territory for his wanton nostalgia by overly referencing other films. Tarantino, known for being ill-disciplined in the editing room - which strained, "Inglourious Basterds" and "Kill Bill," delivers a thrilling ride, with more comedic moments than a Mel Brooks comedy. Top-notch performances throughout, especially the reliable (Christoph Waltz) who chews up the scenery with aplomb. Foxx fits the role of the slave in search for his damsel; Dicaprio is a character with a charming, brooding menace, and Jackson delivers a Cheney-esque uncle Tom. My only gripe would be the peurile use of his exploitation-style of blood and carnage (I recall Corbucci or Leone not using much at all), and his willingness to offer himself a cameo; more painful this time with the inclusion of a faux Australian accent. It's taken a while, but he has deliivered his best film since the under-appretiated, "Jackie Brown."

Loved it - perfect cure for snowy day blues. Lots of good one liners and for a 70s baby like me also fun spotting the cameos from 70s/80s tv and film.

Awsome indeed, must see & must see again: 9/10

I think Quint is FULLY aware of his "shitty" cameo. Just adds to the fun!

Top acting and a strong script made this an outstanding Quein Tarantino film! Pity that Leonardo Di Carpio did not get a Best Supporting Actor nomination though: he was simply quite amazing as the *baddie* as far as I am concerned. This will be a strong come-back-film for Jamie Foxx in any case after having failing to shine in his films on the whole, after getting his Best Actor Oscar for Ray quite a couple of years back.

Every time i found myself liking the film Tarantino does something to annoy. In places it is very funny and Waltz, Di Caprio and Foxx are all excellent however there are too many annoyances to make this a four star film. The violence is too extreme with too much fake blood splattered everywhere and like a few have said Tarantino and his aussie mates are a disaster. Jackson hams it up incredibly and there must have been a bet between him and Don Johnson as to who would play the biggest cliche because both are hammier than a bacon sarnie. Its enjoyable but not great and is probably 20 to 25 minutes too long. Worth 7 out of 10. Not for the weak stomached or as a date movie.