Key Takeaways:
– Filmmaker Quentin Tarantino remains unfazed by the criticism against his 2012 film ‘Django Unchained.’
– Tarantino shared his views on the critics, particularly Black critics, during an interview with the New York Times.
– Despite an intense backlash, Tarantino expressed interest in directing more films with the same theme.
– Remembered for the controversy, ‘Django Unchained’ is still a significant part of Tarantino’s rich cinematic history.
Tarantino Unmoved By Critics’ Remarks on ‘Django Unchained’
Acclaimed filmmaker Quentin Tarantino has openly dismissed the negative backlash for his controversial 2012 film ‘Django Unchained.’ In a candid discussion with the New York Times, Tarantino responded to the critique, particularly those from Black critics, with indifference, stating he “couldn’t have cared less.”
In the Oscar-winning film, Jamie Foxx starred as Django, a freed slave who joins forces with a German bounty hunter, played by Christoph Waltz, to rescue his wife.
In Defense of Cinematic Expression
Tarantino emphasized in his interview that criticism, whether positive or negative, does not affect him. He is unbothered if audiences do not appreciate or understand his films, underlining that hurtful words hold no power over him. “You wouldn’t think the color of a writer’s skin should have any effect on the words themselves,” he said, elaborating on critics who attacked his motivations.
The film took flak for its depiction of slavery and frequent use of the ‘N’ word. Critics, including director Spike Lee, deemed the portrayal as inappropriate. Nevertheless, Tarantino, always at readiness to defend his work, stands by his interpretation of the historical event.
Reality Versus Reel: Django’s Depiction of History
Tarantino highlighted during the film’s first UK screening that the brutal depiction in ‘Django Unchained’ was comparatively subdued. He stated, “We all intellectually know the brutality and inhumanity of slavery. But after you do the research it’s no longer intellectual anymore. You feel it in your bones. However bad things get in the movie, a lot worse s—t actually happened.”
Interestingly, the director hinted at his interest in exploring similar themes in future projects. “I’d like to do a couple more, dealing with the same issue: but different story, different characters,” he added.
From Inspiration to Execution
Tarantino’s love for the spaghetti western genre, particularly the works of Italian director Sergio Corbucci, inspired him to create ‘Django Unchained.’ Despite the controversy elicited, this won’t be the last time Tarantino’s creativity will steer him towards challenging themes.
‘Django Unchained’ remains a critical part of Tarantino’s cinematic legacy, pushing boundaries and sparking conversations. The film is available on Netflix for those interested in observing the controversy’s epicenter firsthand.
Tarantino continues to stand by his work, even amidst intense scrutiny and criticism. Being no stranger to controversy, the director’s creative vision serves as his compass in the world of filmmaking, encouraging him to explore and push limits, hell-bent on remaining authentic to his interpretation of stories.
