Quentin Tarantino is back with a new movie and not a moment too soon! His latest “Once Upon A Time In…Hollywood” is a breath of fresh air for cinephiles alienated by big studio blockbusters and stale franchises. Here are some great reasons to see it as soon as possible:
1. A-list actors delivering A+ performances
It was worth the wait to see Leonardo DiCaprio’s follow up to his Oscar-winning turn in “The Revenant.” Leo is a GenX Cary Grant and a modern leading man with both versatile talent and infectious charisma. We don’t see actors like this grace the big screen anymore. Likewise, Brad Pitt hasn’t been this alive on screen since his kooky role in The Coen Brothers’ “Burn After Reading.” The barrage of supporting performances and cameos were very entertaining and were a lot to take in. Multiple viewings will be needed to take them all in.
2. Quentin Tarantino is on top of his game
For a Tarantino movie set during the time period during the Manson murders, this subverted my exceptions in a refreshing way! He showed discipline and restraint toward his over the top violent tendencies, but still splurged at the end. Overall, there were not a lot of sophomoric antics. The climax was very Tarantino-esque but offered such a satisfying build-up and pay off. This featured one of the best uses of a dog in a movie in at least several years.
3. Witness an old-fashioned era on the big screen
Tarantino captured the era to perfection. All of the cultural references, cool clothing, sleek cars, and product placements was like Stranger Things for Baby Boomers. But it is more than just throw away nostalgia to me. It feels like an end of an era and reminiscing about the Golden Age of Hollywood. Though there aren’t too many options available across the country, watch this movie on a 35mm or 70mm presentation if possible. It will enhance this experience.
4. Support original, non-IP Cinema with your money
Listen. It is blockbuster season, but in reality, the blockbuster season is year-round for many multiplexes. Tarantino’s “Once Upon A Time In…Hollywood” needs your support. It is wildly entertainingly, delightfully indulgent, and playfully vintage while constantly subverting expectations. Mainstream movies aren’t like this. Audiences vote with their wallets as Forbes box office guru Scott Mendelson says. Let’s see you at the ballot box office this weekend and in the coming weeks!
Finally, I have to say that the event surrounding Denver’s screening of “Once Upon A Time In…Hollywood” was a very fun atmosphere and perfectly set the throwback mood.
