Once Upon A Time In Hollywood

As a longtime Tarantino fan, I'm always excited for him to release new movies.  He is one of the few directors/writers that creates original stories, and has a unique stamp that everyone can recognize.  A "Tarantino film" is typically violent, with a lot of blood.  They are not gruesome with their depiction, but more satirical.  I unfortunately was unable to see his latest film in theaters, but watched over the past weekend.  Once Upon A Time In Hollywood is officially his 9th project, and another great edition in his history.  He is said to only have plans for 10 total projects.  I can only hope this is rumor.

Once Upon A Time In Hollywood is a part-fiction story that takes place in 1969.  The film centers around legendary Western star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), who is doing everything he can to keep his career relevant.  His best friend and stunt double Cliff (Brad Pitt) accompanies him on this journey, and serves as Dalton's right hand man (handyman, bodyguard, driver).  The movie depicts old-time Hollywood, highlighting filmmaking and classic production.  A major subplot of the film includes Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie), an up in coming young star who happens to be Dalton's neighbor.  As many know, Tate was one of the victims to the Manson murders.  Doing my best not to spoil anything, this plays a great role in the ending of the film.  Let's just say Tarantino has a different spin on how things turned out that night.

I really enjoyed the film.  Running at 2hrs and 41min I felt the length was perfect, and flowed very well.  The acting was superior on all levels and there was not a bad performance to be seen.  Especially Brad Pitt, having his best role in a long time.  I loved hearing music from the summer of love, it helped set the tone of this wild story.  A slightly different style than I'm used to from Tarantino, but I believe it is top 5 in his catalogue.  Less shock and awe, and more story telling.  He pays great homage to classic movies and movie making.  My bias lies with my fandom, but I highly recommend this film and believe it will find it's way to the award stage soon.

Photo Credit: Sony

Rating: 4.5/5
Movie Details: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7131622/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0

Tarantino Movie Rankings:
Kill Bill vol 1&2
Inglorious Bastards
Pulp Fiction
Once Upon A Time In Hollywood
Jackie Brown (not seen, but hear it's great)
Django
Reservoir Dogs
Death Proof (not seen)
The Hateful Eight (not seen)


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