Although it doesn’t quite live up to some of Tarantino’s other works, Once Upon a Time… In Hollywood is still one of 2019’s best films.
The Upside:
Once Upon a Time is one of Tarantino’s most intimate films when it comes to its characters. The story revolves very heavily around Brad Pitt and Leo DiCaprio, who both give phenomenal performances in their roles as Cliff Booth and Rick Dalton. It paints an excellent picture of an aging star and his best friend/flawed stuntman coming to grips with the reality of their waning careers. In typical Tarantino fashion, there is some great dark humor and several memorable scenes. The emotion and intimacy of Leo’s Rick Dalton speaking with a child actor as he realizes he may no longer be the star he once was, and the first encounter with the (unnamed) Manson Family at the Movie ranch come to mind. The climax of the film is also hilariously satisfying and pretty shocking. Once Upon a Time carries a lot of Tarantino’s style, with a very engaging story, and memorable performances.
The Downside:
Although an excellent film, Once Upon a Time seems to lack in a lot of areas. Where Tarantino’s other films feel very tightly organized, OUATIH feels very loose, and the subplots don’t weave into the main conflict very seamlessly. Also, for a movie as long as this (2hr 45min+), it feels like side plots (such as Sharon Tate and relatively everything involving the Manson family), are focused on far too heavily, and don’t end up being relevant in the long run. Tarantino’s style doesn’t always play well with the content of the film either. A lot of the cutaways and small tie ins that are thrown in, and are typically very fun, don’t seem relevant or interesting. Several moments end up being “we’ve seen this before, and much better.” Type moments.
The Verdict:
Although flawed, and falling short of Tarantino’s usual level of excellence, phenomenal performances paired with a very intimate connection with the characters, and some truly memorable scenes, make Once Upon a Time… In Hollywood one of this year’s best films.
8/10
The high point: Discussing Books/Movie Ranch
The low point: The depiction of Bruce Lee
FlickFix 