A fun ride

Rating: 8/10 (26 August 2019)

Tarantino films seem like schematics for a future theme park ride. They are filled with rich characters, portrayed well, but reality and consistency play supportive roles. The film plot fades in and out, like dreams in a sleep cycle: sometimes clear and concise, sometimes farcical, but often fluctuating in-between.
"Once Upon A Time.... In Hollywood" follows the same plan. The storyline only seems to provide a vehicle for characters, portrayed magnificently. Fortunately, I love seeing the choices that actors make and this cast did not disappoint.
1. Leo crushed on all fronts. He showed a lot of range, often within the same moment.
2. Pacino brings mastery, even to a role designed for driving the narrative.
3. Bruce Dern aces his cameo. He made gold from coal.
4. Brad Pitt is always fun to watch, because his natural charisma beckons me to be his side kick (Or gofer. Eh hem!). Anyway, it takes a minute for his character to fully form, but it eventually, becomes the most memorable. At a couple of points, he channeled John Wayne and Matthew McConaughey influences. Perhaps the Wayne-ims rubbed off of Kurt Russell, who is also fun to watch, but is mainly wallpaper, in this film. Lastly, I can say that I'm ok with Cliff (aka Pitt) giving Bruce a run for his money. That's the beauty of Tarantino's style/humor. He doesn't have the same boundaries and that's why his films are zesty. Either you appreciate it or you don't. And yes, it was a characterature of Bruce. Spoiler: Nearly every Tarantino character, EVER, is a characterature.
5. Austin Butler is a good looking kid. His looks should have detracted from the role, but they didn't. They are noticeable, but his commitment to character was convincing and stronger. If he keeps his head right, he can, one day, hold a high place with the Oscar Committee and commoners, alike.
6. Dakota Fanning owned her role. She was uber intimidating, without any crutches....besides sleep deprivation makeup and crunchy feet (: I have never been unpleasantly surprised by Dakota. This time, I didn't even realize it was her, until I read the credits. Side note: The suspense in her earlier scene was creative and palpable.
7. Julia Butters? Who is this child phenom? There were very few moments in which she didn't hit it out of the park. One to watch, for sure.
8. Seeing Luke Perry was a bitter/sweet surprise. I liked his simple portrayal. It was emotive, unselfish and beautifully adequate. I wish I could see more ):
9. Timothy Olyphant's portrayal was sharp and crisp. Albiet a small role, his character garners attention, in strong subtle ways. I haven't seen any of Olyphant's other work, but it is obvious that he can carry big projects.
10. Full disclosure: I admit that I am biased concerning Margot Robbie. She is B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L. Perhaps, we are incompatible (: but if I were to paint a portrait to fawn over, she's it. And her portrayal of Sharon Tate plays a huge role in my twitterpation. I'm definitely not taking anything away from her acting chops, but who cares when she's such a smoke show. (JK)
11. Perhaps the biggest character, behind Leo's and Pitt's is Hollywood herself. As a once long time resident, I can say that she looked gorgeous. It's clear that Tarantino is paying homage. In fact, it may be driving his rationale for making a period piece. Let's face it, showcasing 1969 Los Angeles, while we're in the grasp of a tech revolution, is no easy, or frugal, task.
Obviously, I chose to see this film in the dark. (Um...Yes, I just said that) That said, I'll risk redundancy and finish with a few overarching opinions.
I think it is best to watch Tarantino authored films as a fan. Expect a theme ride and you will have a blast. If you are expecting strict cohesion and a rich plot, you may be disappointed. Tarantino seems to give all of us energetic kids--with an ADHD label--hope to fulfill aspirations of genius. He's the guy who says, "...and then we'll throw in a zombie!" and Execs are like, "Wait...what??" To which he replies, "Hell yeah. And then, we'll throw in some Western elements and a flame thrower and Children Of The Corn....but it's okay because I'm super stoked on it....and we'll get Leo and Pitt, Fanning and Pacino and strong performances by future Hollywood behemoths." Then he creates the same dish with a delightful new pizzazz.
Although that was a great place to end, I can't go without noting the fun cinematic segues. These moments are obvious, but they add another fun layer...which again, seems to be a part of Tarantino's formula: include enough levers to get your next baby funded.