Spaghetti Westerns are a popular genre of films known for their gritty, violent content and often include a lone hero seeking revenge. However, not all Spaghetti Westerns are created equal, and some stand out for being particularly bizarre, brutal, or surrealistic. One such film is Django Kill… If You Live, Shoot! (1967), directed by Giulio Questi and starring Tomas Milan, Marilù Tolo, and Piero Lulli. This dark Spaghetti Western film is not for the faint of heart and may leave you with many questions afterward.
The plot of Django Kill… If You Live, Shoot! revolves around a group of bandits who rob a Mexican village and then kill everyone who witnessed the crime. The leader of the gang, The Major (Piero Lulli), betrays his accomplices, leading to a brutal and confusing massacre that leaves the lone survivor, Django (aka The Stranger, portrayed by Tomas Milan), with a thirst for revenge. However, this movie is not just a simple revenge tale. It becomes more complex as Django faces the supernatural after being left for dead, which leads to some trippy and surreal visuals.
The cinematography and setting in Django Kill… If You Live, Shoot! are also noteworthy. Shot on location in Spain, the film’s barren landscapes and tiny towns reflect the desolation and harshness of the Wild West. The film’s use of bright colors in contrast with the bleak and dusty setting creates a visually arresting atmosphere that is almost psychedelic. The film’s intense violence, symbolic imagery, outstanding performances, and breathtaking cinematography all come together to create a unique and unforgettable dark Spaghetti Western.
