For some reason, Django is highly revered. But if you are used to the works of Sergio Leone, then Django definitely skimps on a few important elements. Like character study and good story. Not that Leone always had the strongest stories, but they certainly were better constructed.
One example is Django himself. Franco Nero looks and acts like Clint Eastwood's man with no name. But with one major difference. Django is not nearly as clever or intelligent. Nero make it seem like he is, but further down in the story you will realize that Django might even be certifiable. I happen to remember the plot of A Fistful of Dollars and this film kind of rips off the plot but in such a way that it completely defies logic. Django has demonstrated to be able to defeat every opponent with ease. Yet spares the major villain because he wants to keep him for last. This character loses his purpose quite fast, and to have him hang around is absolutely ridiculous. At one moment, I was thinking of Once Upon a Time in the West. Maybe, just maybe, Django has a particular beef with him and wants to savour the revenge. At least, that would have made sense. Then there is the relationship between him and Maria. He rescues her after she had been whipped several times. He easily could have saved her before or during yet waits for another group of thugs to arrive who also are planning to beat her. Why didn't he come into action sooner? Why did he sleep with her and then discard her like she is nothing? Although, Maria, also isn't quite right in the mind as she manages to fall in love with Django. The way he treats her is not exactly what you call loving.
Then his motivation. He turns out to be a simpleton of the highest order. I am sure there are easier ways of carrying specific goods. Django uses a coffin. Of course, this is cool as hell. But practical? Before you think I hated this film. Well, some nuance is in order. For the most part, I liked it. Especially, the action. It's basically what I was hoping for, and Django does deliver in that department. Everything else was subpar. Although, Franco Nero is solid. He amps up the coolness of his character tenfold. You can't blame him for the lack of an arc.
Apparently, there is just one official sequel and the rest are all unofficial ones. Will have to assess whether those are worth to track down and watch. After hearing so much about this film I have to say I am slightly disappointed. I guess my expectations were a little too high. Overall, this is a one time watch for me!
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