In an unexpected turn of events, news broke yesterday regarding a sequel to Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood currently in development. While fans may have hoped for a return reminiscent of the iconic Kill Bill Vol. 2, the circumstances surrounding this project are anything but ordinary. Here’s what we know so far, and why some aspects of this development raise eyebrows.
This intriguing sequel is being produced for Netflix, a platform often viewed as the antithesis of traditional Hollywood filmmaking. Unlike many of its other high-profile projects, this film is reportedly bypassing a theatrical release altogether. It’s ironic that a narrative so deeply rooted in the classic era of Hollywood would find its home on a streaming service. As it stands, Quentin Tarantino is not directing this sequel; instead, David Fincher has taken the reins based on a script penned by Tarantino.
David Fincher’s directorial style contrasts sharply with Tarantino’s, particularly in terms of shooting format. While the original film was shot on film, Fincher has embraced digital filmmaking in his recent projects. This significant shift raises questions about how the aesthetic of the sequel will differ from its predecessor. Fincher’s relationship with Netflix has been notably complex; he was the creative force behind the platform's first major original series, House of Cards, and directed the critically acclaimed series Mindhunter, which still leaves fans wondering why it was canceled.
According to reports, this upcoming film will focus on Cliff Booth, portrayed by Brad Pitt. However, there are conflicting narratives regarding the involvement of Leonardo DiCaprio, who starred in the original film. Some sources suggest that DiCaprio may not return at all, while others indicate he might be in negotiations for a minor role. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the project.
The potential for this sequel to succeed is undeniably present, yet many factors contribute to its odd nature. The decision for Tarantino not to direct, coupled with the film's direct-to-Netflix release, raises questions about its overall vision. Interestingly, the original film gained traction in 2019 by introducing several breakout stars, including Austin Butler, Sydney Sweeney, Margaret Qualley, and Mikey Madison, who recently won an Oscar. It will be fascinating to see which new talents this sequel might discover.
While many fans would love to experience this sequel in a traditional theater setting, the reality of today’s film landscape suggests otherwise. As non-blockbuster projects often gravitate toward streaming platforms where the financial incentives are greater, it seems that this sequel is following suit. As the project develops, fans are eagerly awaiting updates on a potential release window.
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