Just between you and me, I’m the last person you want writing a review. My head is easily turned by attractive faces, and this film has plenty of those. But, with the exception of Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Sharon Tate, most of the pretty people are viewed through a layer of grit.
Undoubtedly, though, Brad Pitt, as rough and tumble stunt double, Cliff Booth, is still so handsome that he makes me stutter when asking Studly Doright for some, “p-p-popc-c-corn.” And Leonardo DiCaprio manages to retain his boyish good looks underneath the seedy B actor character, Rick Dalton.
So, as you can see, these three make it impossible for me to provide an unbiased review of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. I can provide you with some vaguely coherent thoughts, though.
- Brad Pitt’s performance is perfection. As pretty as he is, heaven knows he could’ve “phoned in” a few performances in his career, but he always seems to bring his A+ game. Okay, maybe his prettiness got to me, but if you’ve seen the movie, let me know what you think.
- Typical Quentin Tarantino film–could’ve been thirty minutes shorter with no problem. Having said that, he’s a storyteller, and I appreciate that.
- Parts of the film are graphically violent. Again, Typical Tarantino.
- I knew Dakota Fanning was in the film, but could never figure out who she was. After I googled the cast this morning and discovered which role she played, I was blown away. She was chillingly low key.
- I didn’t want to see this film, but have to admit to liking it anyway. Studly Doright is now crowing, “I told you so!”
- Having read everything I could get my hands on about the Manson family and the Tate-LaBianca murders as a teenager, I was curious to see how the reality of the actual events would play out in this work of fiction.
- In reference to my last comment–Liberties were taken. I approve. Yes, I’m sure Mr. Tarantino was waiting with bated breath for my thumbs up on the film.
- The soundtrack is groovy. I dig the Mamas and the Papas….
- Luke Perry was in this film. I cried a bit when I realized it had to have been his final role before he suffered a stroke earlier this year.
- Lots of stars playing bit parts. That always makes me smile.
- I wouldn’t mind seeing this movie again, especially since I had to take a bathroom break during one scene that turned out to have some impact on the ending.
- The actress, Rachel Redleaf, who played Mama Cass Elliott never uttered a line, but sure channeled the essence of perhaps the greatest rock voice of my youth.
I have more thoughts, but they’re becoming less coherent as I go. One suggestion, though. Don’t see Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and then go to bed without letting it drift away a bit. My dreams were full of weird 60’s type imagery, and no, I don’t do acid.
Peace, people.
Praying for Eyebrowz 
I was going to view it today…
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Enjoy!
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Great review! We will probably see it when it comes out on cable. We don’t go to the movie theater much. We save those rare occasions for the next Star Wars sequel or Marvels whatever. It used to be “in anticipation for the next Harry Potter movie”. I miss that chance to go see a flick. People at work were talking about Once Upon a Time in Hollywood & I heard just about what you wrote.
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My husband and I try to see a movie in the theatre at least once a month. We also are into the Marvel movies, and I’m a huge Star Wars fan. Huge.
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Hans Solo or Luke Skywalker? That is the question.
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Han Solo all the way.
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I was in love with Luke Skywalker. But as I go back & watch them, I find his whiny persona a little off putting. What did I know, I was 12 when Star Wars hit the theater. But those blue eyes…..hmmmm?
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See, age is the difference. I was 22, and Han Solo was THE man. At one time I had quite the collection of Star Wars memorabilia, but I’ve given quite a few items to my grandkids.
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This sounds like something I would like, even if it’s Tarantino behind it. Thanks!
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Let me know what you think.
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On my list lady. On my list x
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It’s really good.
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Must say Brad is still looking dapper… Mind clocking him all the years back in Thelma and Louise and thinking who is he…
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Oh, I know. He’s come a long way!
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Oh, indeed x
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Thank you! After reading your review I changed my mind and will go see the movie next week. That’s the power of written word from a trusted source.
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Oh golly! I hope you don’t hate me after you see it! Fingers crossed!
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Never! 🙂
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Thanks for the review, Leslie. After I learned of the topic of the movie I was thinking I wouldn’t want to see it even if Brad and Leo were in it! (I like pretty faces, too.) I was afraid it would be too violent as Tarantino films are. I’ve only seen one and refused to see any others because of the violence. But I might try this one. I hear it will be his last film as he’s retiring.
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All the thoughts you were having I’ll bet were similar to ones I had, too. It’s still an emotional topic for me. After all these years! Is that crazy?
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