Django Kill: Director's Cut is an Italian Spaghetti Western film from 1967, directed by Giulio Questi. It stars Thomas Millan as the protagonist known as 'The Stranger', along with Marilu Tolo as his love interest. The story takes place in a small Mexican village where a band of outlaws, led by a man named Oaks, have just completed a robbery of gold. The Stranger, a former member of Oaks' gang, is betrayed and left for dead after helping them commit the robbery. He is subsequently taken in by a group of indigenous people who believe in traditional ways and practices of healing.
Once he has recovered, The Stranger sets out on a mission of revenge against Oaks and his gang. However, as he begins to exact his revenge, he realizes that Oaks is not the only one responsible for his betrayal, and there are other corrupt individuals who have wronged him.
Throughout the film, The Stranger is both a hero and a villain as he kills his way through the corrupt town, but at the same time seeks to save those who are innocent or who have been wronged. As he progresses with his mission, he realizes that his enemies' cruelty and greed are deeply rooted in their fear of change and their reluctance to embrace progress.
The film is not for the faint of heart, as it is graphic and violent with themes of betrayal, revenge, and corruption. It also depicts the brutal treatment of indigenous people by colonizers, and the struggle for power that ensues.
Director Giulio Questi intentionally pushes the boundaries with this film, using surreal imagery, metaphors, and color symbolism to create an otherworldly experience for the audience. The film is visually powerful, and the haunting soundtrack contributes to the unsettling atmosphere.
One of the most iconic scenes in the film takes place at a baptism ceremony, where Oaks' gang massacres everyone in attendance. The gruesome violence is juxtaposed with the hypnotic chants of the ceremony, making for a surreal and disturbing sequence.
Django Kill: Director's Cut was met with mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the film's cinematography and unconventional storytelling, while others criticized its excessive violence and graphic content. However, over time, it has gained cult status and is considered one of the more surrealist and experimental westerns of the era.
The director's cut of the film is notable because it includes several scenes that were cut from the original release due to their graphic content or political undertones. These extra scenes provide greater context and depth to the story, making for a more coherent and powerful narrative.
Overall, Django Kill: Director's Cut is a film that pushes the boundaries of the western genre while exploring deep themes of corruption, betrayal, and revenge. With its surreal imagery, haunting soundtrack, and powerful performances, it is not a film to be missed by fans of the spaghetti western or those who are looking for a unique and challenging cinematic experience.