Acclaimed filmmaker Quentin Tarantino’s personal favourite from his entire filmography, Once Upon a Time in… Hollywood, airs this evening on Film 4 for those who’ve yet to experience it.
The star-studded production features Hollywood heavyweights Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio and Margot Robbie, alongside notable performances from Al Pacino, Kurt Russell and Damian Lewis. Tragically, this marked Luke Perry’s final film appearance before his death.
Following its summer 2019 release across British and American cinemas, the picture generated approximately £287 million in worldwide box office revenue. Critics and audiences alike have hailed the multi-award-winning production as “a masterpiece” and “perfect”, consistently awarding it five-star ratings.
Both written and helmed by Tarantino, the project represented his first production without the Weinstein brothers’ involvement following sexual abuse allegations against Harvey. Set against the backdrop of late 1960s Los Angeles, the narrative centres on declining Western star Rick Dalton (DiCaprio) and his closest companion and stunt performer Cliff Booth (Pitt) as they navigate an evolving film industry that threatens to leave them obsolete.
Booth lives in a trailer adjacent to filmmaker Roman Polanski and his rising actress spouse Sharon Tate (Robbie), who was tragically murdered in her home alongside four companions by members of Charles Manson’s cult in real-life events. Rick secures a part in a spaghetti Western after being cast by Martin Schwarz (Pacino), reports the Mirror.
He and Booth travel to Italy for filming, where they remain for six months following additional bookings. Upon returning to LA, they come face to face with the Manson family as they arrive to commit the killings.
Once Upon a Time in… Hollywood was recognised as one of 2019’s top 10 films. It received numerous nominations and amongst many honours claimed a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture alongside two Oscars – Best Supporting Actor for Pitt and Best Production Design.
The film boasts an 86% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences applauding its humour, drama and musical score. “I love Tarantino movies, and this is a love letter to Hollywood,” said one viewer.
“Everything is perfect – soundtrack, cast, the retro look of the late 60’s and especially the cinematography. This movie has humor, drama, and action.”
A second observer said: “While Once Upon A Time In Hollywood is different to anything that Tarantino has ever done before this movie can be summed up in one word – a masterpiece.”
The performances received particular acclaim from a third reviewer: “One of Hollywood’s most tragic and disturbing stories, reimagined through Tarantino’s unmistakable mastery and visionary touch in writing and directing,” they said. “Anchored by exceptional performances that leave no room for improvement, it carries the aura of a bygone era with unmatched grace.”