Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood

UK Release Date: 14 August 2019

Certification: 18
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Cast: Austin Butler, Leonardo DiCaprio, Emile Hirsch, Timothy Olyphant, Al Pacino, Brad Pitt, Margaret Qualley, Margot Robbie

Rating: 95%

Review:

Esteemed director, Quentin Tarantino, explores 1960's Hollywood putting his own spin on history in his ninth feature film, Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood. The world created feels immersive, transporting the audience back in time, due to intricate set-designs and a vibrant, swinging soundtrack. 

As the film progresses, characters become entangled with certain members of the Manson Family. Obviously, the Manson murders are a horrific part of history. It's a huge challenge to be able to explore the Manson Family in a sensitive manner. If done incorrectly, there would have been a real danger of Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood becoming exploitative but I thought it was handled well. Scenes around the Manson Family were accompanied by a chilling score creating a real tense atmosphere. I would have been intrigued to have seen more from Charles Manson in this but I understand why he wasn't a prominent figure in the film. 

The first hour of the film drags a little, but the last hour and a half more than makes up for it. Once the film hits the hour mark it never looks back. It's non-stop entertainment - whether through engaging character interactions or insane action set-pieces. Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood ends in the most absurd and thrilling manner. The third act comes from absolutely nowhere. Brutal, cruel and uncontrollable - violence is choreographed superbly but it's some of the most fun I've had watching a film. 

Somehow, this is the first film that Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt have starred in together playing actor, Rick Dalton, and stuntman, Clint Booth, respectively. Their friendship and understanding is the real charm of the film. Leo is brilliant as always. He feels a little more laid-back compared to his other roles but he still gets plenty of moments to act. The scene in the trailer is perfect, completely improved by DiCaprio. Although, Pitt really excels here landing himself an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. He portrays Clint Booth in an incredibly nonchalant manner, oozing cool and style. Yet, a sense of mystery hangs around him that only adds to his persona. 

This is without a doubt Tarantino's most comedic film. There's a real care to make it work, taking five or ten minutes to set up a joke. Over the top visuals, dead pan delivery and violent action all contribute to laughs. As previously mentioned, the friendship between Rick Dalton and Cliff Booth drives the film forward. Conversations between the two remain quotable, even four years after the film's release. A lot of the humour works because of their friendship, it's wholly believable.

I don't think Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood adds anything to Tarantino's filmography and it could even be considered as pointless. However, this film was too enjoyable not to love and will be one that I revisit again and again.