The Special B’day Gift

A lot of friends around me had downloaded and watched the latest film by Quentin Tarantino months ago, not being able to contain their excitement for it. I refused to do that. Having watched the unforgettable ‘Inglourious Basterds’ (2009) on the big screen, it was impossible for me to experience the latest on my laptop. So, I waited, patiently, and with the hope that the version that the Indian censor board releases does not have atrocious cutting like I experienced last week with ‘The Master’ (2012). As I write these words, I am glad that I waited.

The 22nd of March was my birthday. And ‘Django Unchained’ that released in India on the same day, I believe, was Quentin Tarantino’s gift to me. Ever since the release date was announced, I was jubilant. And finally, on the destined day, after having worked until almost ten in the evening, I had the amazing experience. That the final act was underwhelming is something I’d happily ignore. The first act in itself was enough to please all my movie-senses!

I had decided to visit a temple, something I haven’t done in months, on the occasion of turning twenty-nine. The work kept me from doing that and when I got free it was the time to head off for the movie-hall. “I wanted to visit the temple today” – I said regretfully. And came my brother's snappy reply – “ Isn't that where we're going right now?”

Temple. Indeed. Slashing of arteries and gushing of blood. The stunning landscapes of a Spaghetti Western. The characters and words of Mr. Tarantino. And the wide eyes and an uninhibited grin of the birthday-boy. Thank you, movie Gods!