The film takes place in 1969 in Hollywood, at a time when the film industry was going through a period of transition. The old Hollywood system was dying, and a new wave of filmmaking was emerging. Rick Dalton is struggling to come to terms with his fading career, and Cliff Booth is struggling to find work as a stuntman.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a film that is steeped in nostalgia. Tarantino has always been a filmmaker who is obsessed with the past, and this film is no exception. The film is littered with references to old Hollywood, such as the TV show Rick Dalton starred in, Bounty Law, which is clearly inspired by shows like Bonanza and Gunsmoke.
The attention to detail in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is stunning. From the costumes to the set design, everything in the film feels authentic to the period. Tarantino has always been a filmmaker who is known for his attention to detail, and he has outdone himself with this film.
The performances in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood are exceptional. Leonardo DiCaprio gives a career-best performance as Rick Dalton. The scene in which he forgets his lines on the set of a TV show is one of the most heartbreaking scenes in the film. Brad Pitt is equally impressive as Cliff Booth, and Margot Robbie is fantastic as Sharon Tate.
One of the standout scenes in the film is when Rick Dalton is filming a scene for a Western TV show. The scene is shot in a single take and is a masterclass in filmmaking. The tension builds as Rick and his co-star move through the scene, and the payoff at the end is one of the most satisfying moments in the film.
The final act of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is where the film really shines. Tarantino takes a tragic moment from Hollywood history and gives it a fairy tale ending. It’s a bold move, but it’s one that works perfectly in the context of the film.
One of the criticisms of the film is that it’s too long. At almost three hours, it’s definitely a film that requires a lot of patience from the viewer. However, the film never feels slow or boring. Every scene feels necessary, and the pacing is perfect.
In conclusion, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a film that is full of heart and soul. It’s a tribute to a bygone era of Hollywood, and it’s a reminder of why we fell in love with movies in the first place. Quentin Tarantino has crafted a masterpiece, and it’s a film that will be talked about for years to come.