I don’t remember the last time I sat down to watch a movie and thought to myself ‘Yep. This definitely wasn’t made for me’, but Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, 2019’s Quentin Tarantino film that landed the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for Brad Pitt is one such film.

As a long time fan of Leonardo DiCaprio, Pitt and Tarantino, I knew, having seen the trailer months prior that Once Upon a Time in Hollywood would be technically good, but also different from Tarantino’s previous films.

What I didn’t know is that, despite my appreciation for Pitt and DiCaprio’s acting, the pace of this new movie would prove quite a challenge at times. I actually had to reach for my phone (then put it back quickly because I must focus) once or twice as the film played. I needed Tarantino’s film to work a little harder to keep my impatient brain engaged and entertained. I’m quite sure that the pace of all that happened made sense for the look, feel, and period of this movie. I simply wish that I could have forgotten that my phone existed during the viewing process.

Thankfully, things did become more interesting once we hit the one hour, fifteen-minute point. Besides the aforementioned pacing plus the one or two tension-filled moments that seemed to drag on for a little longer than necessary, all else was well with Tarantino’s movie. A story about a specific period in Hollywood (1969) where a TV actor (DiCaprio) and his stunt double (Pitt) go about their lives, navigating their roles and places in Hollywood. We get to see an enviably close partnership/friendship captured in a way that gives the movie a kind of behind-the-scenes/documentary feel. One that shows us a glimpse into the middle-aged actor experience, along with the experience of a few other Hollywood residents – unsavoury or otherwise.

In terms of great scenes, DiCaprio has some. Overall though, my favourites mostly feature Pitt’s Cliff Booth character. It makes sense since Pitt’s scenes contained a little more of what I love about Tarantino films. Including beautifully choreographed ‘badassery,’ undeniable cool, great dialogue, tension, music and so on.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is one to watch for fans of Tarantino, those curious about his creative evolution and fans of the great actors involved. Even though this one isn’t my favourite Tarantino film, there are scenes I’ll remember fondly. Especially the choreography of a specific scene involving a beautiful pit bull named Brandy.

What’s your your favourite Tarantino classic?

Happy Film Loving,

G