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Year: 1966
Runtime: 91 min
Language: French
Director: Sergio Corbucci
In war-torn France, 1943, jazz legend Django Reinhardt embarks on a perilous journey to reunite with his family, fleeing Nazi-occupied Paris. As he navigates treacherous landscapes and confronts the harsh realities of occupation, Django's pursuit of freedom becomes a defiant act of hope and resilience.
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On the tumultuous Mexico-United States border circa 1866, a mysterious drifter, Django, clad in a Union army uniform and dragging a coffin, stumbles upon a horrific scene. He witnesses María ([Loredana Nusciak]) being tied to a bridge and lashed by Mexican bandits. Before they can carry out their cruel plans to crucify her atop a raging fire, Django intervenes, swiftly taking down the attackers and proclaiming his intention to protect her.
Together, they find refuge in a ghost town overseen by Nathaniel ([Ángel Álvarez]), the local bartender, and a handful of sex workers. Nathaniel explains that this town exists as a demilitarized zone amidst the escalating conflict between Major Jackson (Eduardo Fajardo) and the revolutionary forces led by General Hugo Rodríguez ([José Bódalo]).
Tension rises when Jackson and his men appear at the saloon, demanding protection money. Django boldly faces off against two of Jackson’s Klansmen when they harass a prostitute, mocking Jackson’s bigotry as he shoots them down. He then challenges Jackson to confront him with all his allies. The night grows heated as Django shares an intimate moment with María, who expresses her gratitude for his bravery.
However, Jackson returns with his full gang, prompting a fierce battle. Django unleashes destruction with a machine gun concealed in his coffin, decimating the Klan’s ranks and allowing a few to flee. Grieving the loss of his former lover, Mercedes Zaro, slain by Jackson, Django stands resolute.
As the revolutionaries capture Jackson’s spy, Brother Jonathan, punishments are meted out brutally, highlighting the ruthlessness of Hugo’s camp. In a twist of fate, Django proposes a daring plan to Hugo: they should “steal Jackson’s gold” from Fort Charriba, situated within Mexican territory.
Under the guise of delivering prostitutes to the fort, Nathaniel drives a horse cart loaded with Django, Hugo, and several revolutionaries inside, leading to a bloody confrontation with the soldiers. Django fights courageously, utilizing his machine gun to contribute to their success. When they successfully escape the chaos with the treasure, Hugo refuses to part with the gold immediately, wishing to use it for his own ambitions.
Later, at a celebratory gathering, tensions flare between Ricardo and Django over María, resulting in a deadly confrontation. Django’s choices lead him to seek a new life, but complications arise as he navigates the aftermath of the heist. He cleverly distracts the guards to steal the treasure concealed in his coffin, while María implores him to take her along on his journey.
The following morning, they arrive at the fateful bridge where their paths first crossed. Django suggests they separate, yet María’s pleas tug at his heartstrings. When her rifle misfires, the coffin tumbles into quicksand, triggering a near-fatal struggle for Django as he attempts to reclaim it. The scenario grows dire when Hugo’s men grave consequences, compelling Django to suffer greatly.
As Hugo’s group retreats after a catastrophic battle with Jackson’s forces, Django and María find their sanctuary at the saloon, which now stands desolate. Even with his injuries, Django’s resolve strengthens; he vows to confront Jackson to end the ongoing violence.
When Jackson strikes, killing Nathaniel, Django positions himself at Tombstone Cemetery beneath the memorial of Mercedes Zaro. In a climactic showdown, he uses his cunning and sheer determination to retaliate against Jackson and his men, ultimately achieving vengeance. In a symbolic gesture, he leaves his weapon resting atop Zaro’s cross, embodying his readiness to embark on a new journey with María by his side.
Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 00:28
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