Genre: Comedy; Drama
Directed by: Quentin Tarantino
Written by: Quentin Tarantino
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Emile Hirsch, Margaret Qualley, Timothy Olyphant, Austin Butler, Dakota Fanning, Bruce Dern and Al Pacino
In theaters: July 26, 2019 (USA); August 14, 2019 (UK)
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood works as a directing showcase for the legendary Quentin Tarantino at his quietest mode. Don't get me wrong, the movie is no piece of slow European drama, but Hollywood takes its time and it might be too long for some viewers - no matter what, it is a movie you won't want to miss!
Back to the 60's Los Angeles, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood channels the times when white male actors dominated the whole industry and actresses got more credit for their beauty than for their actual talents. The movie follows Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt-double and close friend Cliff (Brad Pitt), but it also follows Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie) as an Hollywood rising star and the Manson family of criminals - and the plots develops slowly around these three narratives and evolves them. It's not a bloody and electric narrative style à la Pulp Fiction: Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is smoother, full of nostalgia and artistic craft to stare at. I think Tarantino has never been able to translate this calm side of him before.
Leonardo DiCaprio is great as Rick Dalton: great line delivery and comedic timing and everyone is talking about his scene with a little girl on set (trust me, it's one of the best moments of acting in the movie!). Margot Robbie is a luminous screen presence and she truly channels Sharon Tate, but the movie doesn't really give her a couple of key scenes she could use to blast audiences with her acting chops - not brilliant, but a sparkling tribute. The best in show is Brad Pitt, who works as a cinematic magnet here by embodying Cliff with such ease and charisma that it's impossible not name him the "coolest actor in the play" - after a big couple of years away of great roles or remarkable productions, Pitt screams he's still a true movie star and a gifted actor. In general, the whole ensemble cast is outstanding, but I want to single out the young Margaret Qualley for her incredible presence - keep her under the radar, I believe she'll be big someday!
In terms of visuals and production values, Once Upon a Time excels! Production design work is detailed and vibrant, costume design brings the 60's crazy vibes but also some nostalgia. Robert Richardson excels once again in the cinematography department with beautiful tones and makeup & hair department also features some flashy work.
In the end, you realise Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is no masterpiece, but it is a very good movie. A perfect alternative to Summer movie madness of superheroes and animated features or silly action flicks. If you want some sharp dialogue, great acting and a nostalgia feeling, Hollywood is a perfect fit for you!
RATING: 4 / 5
OSCAR POTENTIAL CATEGORIES:
- Best Picture
- Best Director (Quentin Tarantino)
- Best Supporting Actor (Brad Pitt)
- Best Supporting Actress (Margot Robbie)
- Best Original Screenplay
- Best Editing
- Best Cinematography
- Best Production Design
- Best Costume Design
- Best Makeup & Hair
- Best Sound Mixing
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