Today’s quick review: Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) has passed his prime. Once the star of a TV Western, Rick has been reduced to taking bit parts on other shows and is struggling to adapt. Meanwhile, Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt), his stunt double and best friend, is facing career troubles of his own. Together, the two men must navigate the glamor and insanity of 1960s Hollywood to try to stage a comeback.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a comedy from director Quentin Tarantino. Set in Los Angeles in 1969, the movie is a love letter to the pop culture of the era, filled to bursting with the sights, sounds, and celebrities of the 60s. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood sports a feel-good tone backed by likable characters and a sharp sense of humor. Its rich setting, star-studded cast, and skilled craftsmanship make it a highly enjoyable watch.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is unusually laid-back for a Tarantino flick. His trademark over-the-top violence is all but absent, making brief appearances only at select moments. The plot is diffuse and rambling, spread out among three or four separate threads that are in no hurry to meet up. Instead, the movie occupies its time with the day-to-day lives of Rick and Cliff while gradually laying the groundwork for what is to come.
The twin pillars of the movie are Rick Dalton and Cliff Booth. Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Rick, a TV actor in the twilight of his career. Rick is a flawed man with a moody personality and an alcoholic streak, yet his loyal friendship to Cliff and his devotion to his craft make him a sympathetic character. Brad Pitt plays opposite him as Cliff, a quiet, imposing figure with an easygoing outlook on life and a perfect complement to Rick.
These two form the basis for much of the film’s comedy. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood has Tarantino’s distinctive sense of humor to it, but unlike his other films, this time it’s tempered by the characters’ heart. There are moments of black comedy, as well as bits of suspense and sheer absurdity, but it’s all tied together by a pair of characters that the movie genuinely seems to love. The result is a surprisingly feel-good watch.
Not everyone will like what the film is going for, however. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood fits together in a very particular way, and the failure of any one part of it does a lot of damage to the overall effect. Those who dislike the characters, the sprawling and often mundane plot, or the few bursts of violence will find it to be an odd watch. It also under-uses its supporting cast, including Margot Robbie, Al Pacino, and Kurt Russell.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is an ambitious film with the craftsmanship to bring its unique vision to life. Fans accustomed to Tarantino’s violent side may find it to be tame by comparison, while those expecting a fast-paced plot will find it aimless. But those looking to take a break in a colorful world with a pair of richly drawn characters, all backed up by strong cinematography, should give Once Upon a Time in Hollywood a shot.
For another comedic look at studio life in the glory days of Hollywood, try Hail, Caesar!. For a buddy comedy set in roughly the same time period, try The Nice Guys. For another period piece that’s more thriller than comedy, try Bad Times at the El Royale. For a more crime-oriented Tarantino flick, try Pulp Fiction. For another wild Leonardo DiCaprio comedy, try The Wolf of Wall Street.
8.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it an 8.0 for excellent craftsmanship, a unique vision, and plenty of fun.