The definitive answer, while seemingly simple, is deceptively complex. While there’s only one official “Django” film, a multitude of movies have capitalized on the name and character, often blurring the lines between sequel, homage, and outright rip-off.
Understanding the “Django” Universe
The spaghetti western genre, born in Italy in the 1960s, was a breeding ground for exploitation films. Sergio Corbucci’s 1966 Django, starring Franco Nero, achieved iconic status and sparked a wave of imitators. The character, a mysterious, vengeful gunslinger often dragging a coffin, proved incredibly popular and commercially viable. However, due to weak copyright laws at the time, the name “Django” became essentially public domain, leading to a profusion of unrelated films using the title.
Therefore, to accurately answer the question, we need to differentiate between the official “Django” films and the numerous unofficial sequels and spin-offs.
The officially recognized film canon, featuring the character Django played by Franco Nero, includes the original 1966 film and its official sequel, 1987’s Django Strikes Again.
But, that’s where the clarity ends. Hundreds of films capitalize on the name to varying degrees of legitimacy.
Identifying the Key Categories
To get a clearer picture, let’s break down the “Django” movies into categories:
- Official Django Films: The two films mentioned above featuring Franco Nero.
- Unofficial Sequels: Films using the name “Django” but not starring Franco Nero and not officially sanctioned by the original rights holders. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of these.
- Films Inspired by Django: Films with thematic similarities to Django but not using the name or character directly. These are not counted as “Django” films.
- Tributes and Homages: Films explicitly referencing Django, often as an Easter egg or a stylistic nod.
Diving Deeper: The Complicated World of Copyright
The main reason for the proliferation of “Django” films lies in the complexities (or lack thereof) of international copyright law during the spaghetti western era. Italian cinema was often made quickly and cheaply, with little regard for intellectual property. This created a loophole that allowed filmmakers from various countries to exploit the “Django” name for their own commercial gain.
The “Django” Name as a Marketing Tool
The enduring appeal of the “Django” name stemmed from its association with a specific type of gritty, violent western. Producers recognized this and used the name to attract audiences, often with little connection to the original film’s story or characters. It was, in essence, a successful marketing tactic exploiting a legal grey area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Django Films
Here are some of the most common questions people have about “Django” movies:
1. Is Django Unchained a “Django” Movie?
Yes, and no. Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained (2012) is not an official sequel to the 1966 Django. However, it is explicitly inspired by the original and features Franco Nero in a cameo, acknowledging its connection to the character and the spaghetti western genre. Tarantino bought the rights to use the name “Django”. Therefore, it’s more accurately described as a tribute and a homage rather than a direct sequel.
2. Why are there so many “Django” movies if they’re not all official?
As mentioned earlier, the lack of stringent copyright enforcement during the spaghetti western era allowed filmmakers to freely use the “Django” name. It became a recognizable brand, and producers exploited it to attract audiences.
3. Are all the “Django” movies Italian?
No. While the original Django and many of the unofficial sequels were Italian, films using the name were also made in Spain, Germany, and other countries. The spaghetti western genre itself had a global appeal, and filmmakers from around the world jumped on the “Django” bandwagon.
4. How can I tell if a “Django” movie is official?
The simplest way is to check if it stars Franco Nero as Django. Beyond that, research the film’s origins and production company. Official sequels are usually associated with the original producers or rights holders.
5. Are all “Django” movies good?
Definitely not. The quality of “Django” movies varies drastically. While some are entertaining examples of spaghetti westerns, many are poorly made and exploit the name without adding anything of substance. View with caution!
6. What are some of the most well-known unofficial “Django” movies?
Some of the more recognizable unofficial “Django” films include: Django, Kill!, Django Shoots First, Django the Bastard, and Django and Sartana Are Coming… It’s the End. However, the sheer number of these films makes it impossible to list them all.
7. Did Franco Nero ever play Django in any of the unofficial sequels?
No, Franco Nero only played Django in the official 1966 film and its 1987 sequel. Any other film claiming to feature him as Django is either mislabeled or features a different character.
8. Is there a definitive list of all “Django” movies?
Unfortunately, no. Due to the sheer number of unofficial films and the lack of consistent documentation, creating a complete and accurate list is extremely difficult. Film databases and online resources can provide a good starting point, but they are often incomplete.
9. What makes the original Django so iconic?
Several factors contributed to the original film’s popularity. These include its stylish direction, gritty violence, memorable score, and Franco Nero’s charismatic performance. The character of Django, the mysterious gunslinger dragging a coffin, became a symbol of vengeance and justice in the Wild West.
10. Are there any modern “Django” movies besides Django Unchained?
While Django Unchained is the most prominent modern example, there have been other attempts to revive the character or the spaghetti western genre. However, none have achieved the same level of success or recognition.
11. What are some common themes found in “Django” movies?
Common themes in “Django” movies include revenge, justice, violence, and the struggle against corruption and oppression. The spaghetti western genre often portrays a brutal and unforgiving world where morality is ambiguous.
12. Should I watch the unofficial “Django” movies?
That depends on your tolerance for low-budget exploitation films. Some are entertaining in a “so bad, it’s good” way, while others are simply tedious. Approach them with caution and a healthy dose of skepticism. Research reviews and ratings before investing your time.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Django
While the exact number of “Django” movies is difficult to pinpoint, it’s clear that the character has had a lasting impact on cinema. From the iconic original film to the countless unofficial sequels and homages, “Django” represents a specific type of gritty, violent western that continues to fascinate audiences. Understanding the history and context behind these films is crucial to appreciating their unique appeal and the complex legal landscape that allowed them to flourish. So, while there may only be two truly “official” Django films, the spirit of Django lives on in countless others.