The Django Unchained soundtrack, which features a mix of Western and contemporary music, was composed by the renowned Italian composer Ennio Morricone. The main theme of Django Unchained, titled "Django," is a particularly notable and distinctive piece. Here are some interesting facts about the theme:
Composition by Luis Bacalov: While Ennio Morricone is credited with the soundtrack for Django Unchained, the main theme "Django" is actually a reworked version of a song composed by Luis Bacalov for the 1966 film "Django." Morricone adapted and rearranged the original piece for Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained.
Original Django Film: The 1966 film "Django," directed by Sergio Corbucci, is a classic spaghetti western and one of the most influential films in the genre. The character of Django, a mysterious and vengeful drifter, has become iconic in Western cinema.
Tarantino's Appreciation for Morricone: Quentin Tarantino is a huge fan of Ennio Morricone's work and has used his music in several of his films. However, Django Unchained marked the first time Morricone composed original music for a Tarantino film. The collaboration was a significant moment in the history of film music.
Academy Award: Ennio Morricone won the Academy Award for Best Original Score for his work on Django Unchained in 2013. It was a special honor as it was Morricone's first competitive Oscar win, despite his legendary career spanning several decades.
Versatility of the Theme: The "Django" theme captures the essence of the film, combining the traditional Western sound with a contemporary twist. Its haunting melody and evocative arrangement contribute significantly to the film's atmosphere and storytelling.
Cultural Impact: The Django Unchained soundtrack, with its memorable theme, has become popular beyond the film itself. The music is often associated with the iconic character Django and has been used in various contexts, including commercials, television shows, and other films.
The collaboration between Quentin Tarantino and Ennio Morricone on Django Unchained resulted in a soundtrack that not only complemented the film's narrative but also became a standout element on its own, showcasing the timelessness and adaptability of Morricone's musical genius.