Juxtaposed: 12 Years a Slave vs. Django Unchained

12 Years a Slave and Django Unchained are movies that contain the same subject matter, but with a completely different tone.  Both movies chronicle slavery's impact in American history, and its effect on the people living through it.  Both movies reveal in detail the horrifying reality of the brutality and senselessness of the institution of slavery.  However, while Django does show the barbaric nature of slavery, it is also a very light watch and often times funny.  The movie is very much a revenge fantasy, and all the terrible people in the film get the punishment they deserve; whereas, 12 Years, which is based on a true account, is a darker portrayal of the true hopelessness and futility caused by slavery.  If you're looking for an enjoyable watch and gaining some insight into slavery watch Django, but if you want to experience a deeper understanding of the despair and finality of one of the darkest times in American history and truly get a glimpse of the physical, psychological, and spiritual toll this system of savagery had on the lives of African Americans watch 12 Years a Slave.