Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood (2019)

Detailed Summary

Introduction to Rick Dalton and Cliff Booth

The film opens in 1969 Los Angeles, introducing Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), a fading television actor, and his best friend and stunt double, Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). Rick struggles with his waning career while Cliff, a laid-back war veteran, assists him in various ways, including as a driver and handyman.

Sharon Tate and Roman Polanski

Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie), an up-and-coming actress, and her husband, director Roman Polanski (Rafał Zawierucha), move in next door to Rick. Sharon’s rising career contrasts with Rick’s decline, adding to his anxiety about his future in Hollywood.

Rick’s Career Challenges

Rick faces a pivotal moment in his career when he is cast as a villain in a pilot for a new TV series, “Lancer.” Despite his initial insecurities, he delivers a powerful performance, earning the respect of the show’s cast and crew. However, he remains uncertain about his place in the evolving film industry.

Cliff’s Encounter at Spahn Ranch

Cliff picks up a hitchhiker named Pussycat (Margaret Qualley) and drives her to Spahn Ranch, where the Manson Family lives. Suspicious of the cult, Cliff confronts them, leading to a tense standoff. He leaves unharmed but with heightened awareness of the cult’s potential danger.

The Trip to Italy

Rick accepts an offer from his agent, Marvin Schwarz (Al Pacino), to make Spaghetti Westerns in Italy. He takes Cliff with him, and they spend six months making films. Upon returning, Rick informs Cliff that he can no longer afford his services, signaling the end of their professional partnership.

The Night of August 8, 1969

The film builds toward the infamous night when the Manson Family targeted Sharon Tate’s home. Instead of attacking Tate, they decide to target Rick’s house, believing him to be a symbol of Hollywood decadence.

The Climactic Showdown

In a violent and darkly comedic showdown, Cliff, under the influence of LSD, fights off the intruders with his dog, Brandy. Rick, startled by the commotion, uses a flamethrower from one of his old movies to kill the last attacker. The incident ends with Rick being hailed as a hero.

Conclusion and Alternate History

The film concludes with Rick being invited into Sharon Tate’s home, suggesting a new beginning for his career and personal life. This alternate history diverges from the tragic real-life events, offering a hopeful ending.

Movie Ending

“Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood” ends on a revisionist note, with Rick Dalton and Cliff Booth successfully fending off the Manson Family attackers. Sharon Tate’s life is spared, and Rick’s heroic actions open the door to a potential revival in his career, symbolizing a fairy-tale ending.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

Yes, the film includes a mid-credits scene featuring Rick Dalton in a fictional commercial for “Red Apple Cigarettes,” a recurring brand in Quentin Tarantino’s films.

Type of Movie

This film is a comedy-drama, blending elements of historical fiction and revisionist history, with Tarantino’s signature style of dialogue and violence.

Cast

• Leonardo DiCaprio as Rick Dalton
• Brad Pitt as Cliff Booth
• Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate
• Emile Hirsch as Jay Sebring
• Margaret Qualley as Pussycat
• Timothy Olyphant as James Stacy
• Julia Butters as Trudi Fraser
• Austin Butler as Tex Watson
• Dakota Fanning as Squeaky Fromme
• Bruce Dern as George Spahn
• Al Pacino as Marvin Schwarz

Film Music and Composer

The film’s soundtrack features a mix of classic rock and pop songs from the late 1960s, enhancing its nostalgic atmosphere. The music is curated by Quentin Tarantino, known for his impeccable taste in music.

Filming Locations

• Los Angeles, California: The primary setting, with notable locations including Hollywood Boulevard and Cielo Drive.
• Spahn Ranch: The real-life location of the Manson Family, recreated for the film.
• Musso & Frank Grill: An iconic Hollywood restaurant featured in the movie.

These locations are integral to the film’s authenticity and nostalgic appeal.

Awards and Nominations

• Academy Awards: Won Best Supporting Actor (Brad Pitt) and Best Production Design. Nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Leonardo DiCaprio), and more.
• Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor (Brad Pitt).
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Supporting Actor (Brad Pitt) and Best Production Design.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Quentin Tarantino meticulously recreated 1969 Los Angeles, shutting down Hollywood Boulevard for filming.
• Brad Pitt improvised the scene where Cliff Booth feeds his dog, Brandy.
• The dynamic between DiCaprio and Pitt mirrored their characters, with DiCaprio being more intense and Pitt more relaxed.

Inspirations and References

• Historical Events: The film draws heavily from the real-life Manson Family murders but offers an alternate ending.
• Hollywood Golden Age: Pays homage to the film industry’s transition from the Golden Age to the New Hollywood era.
• Sergio Leone Films: The title references Leone’s “Once Upon a Time” trilogy, highlighting the film’s fairy-tale elements.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

While the film doesn’t have known alternate endings, several deleted scenes provide additional context and character development. These include extended interactions between Rick and Cliff, and more scenes featuring the Manson Family.

Book Adaptations and Differences

Quentin Tarantino released a novelization of the film in 2021, expanding on the characters’ backstories and providing more details about their lives before and after the events of the movie.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Cliff Booth’s Fight with Bruce Lee: A humorous and controversial scene where Cliff demonstrates his fighting prowess.
• Rick Dalton’s Breakdown in the Trailer: A raw moment showcasing DiCaprio’s acting chops.
• Climactic Showdown: The violent and darkly comedic final fight with the Manson Family members.

Iconic Quotes

• “I’m Rick Dalton. It’s my pleasure. Mr. Schwarz.” – Rick Dalton
• “You’re gonna be okay, pumpkin. You’re gonna be okay.” – Cliff Booth
• “And away we go!” – Rick Dalton

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• Red Apple Cigarettes: A fictional brand appearing in multiple Tarantino films.
• Bounty Law Posters: References to Rick Dalton’s fictional TV show, inspired by real Western series.
• Cameos: Appearances by Tarantino’s regular collaborators, including Kurt Russell and Zoë Bell.

Trivia

• Tarantino’s ninth film, described as his “love letter to Hollywood.”
• The role of Rick Dalton was initially offered to Tom Cruise.
• Margot Robbie wore the real Sharon Tate’s jewelry, lent by Tate’s sister, Debra.

Why Watch?

“Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood” offers a nostalgic journey through 1969 Los Angeles, blending humor, drama, and revisionist history. Tarantino’s direction, combined with stellar performances from DiCaprio and Pitt, makes it a must-watch for film enthusiasts and those interested in Hollywood’s golden era.

Director’s Other Movies

• Pulp Fiction (1994)
• Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)
• Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004)
• Inglourious Basterds (2009)
• Django Unchained (2012)
• The Hateful Eight (2015)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Inglourious Basterds (2009)
• The Nice Guys (2016)
• La La Land (2016)
• Boogie Nights (1997)
• American Hustle (2013)