- David Fincher will direct a sequel to ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ for Netflix.
- The script, written by Quentin Tarantino, is based on his shelved project ‘The Movie Critic.’
- Brad Pitt will reprise his Oscar-winning role as Cliff Booth.
- The film has a $200 million budget and is set to begin filming in California in July 2025.
- Leonardo DiCaprio is not expected to return as Rick Dalton.
David Fincher Takes the Helm for Tarantino-Penned Sequel
In a surprising development, David Fincher is set to direct a sequel to Quentin Tarantino’s acclaimed 2019 film, ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.’ The project, which will be produced by Netflix, reunites Fincher with Brad Pitt, who will reprise his Oscar-winning role as Cliff Booth. This marks a unique collaboration between two cinematic heavyweights, with Tarantino providing the screenplay and Fincher bringing his directorial expertise to the table.
The Evolution of ‘The Movie Critic’
The screenplay for the sequel reportedly evolved from Tarantino’s abandoned project, ‘The Movie Critic,’ which was initially intended to be his tenth and final film. According to sources, Tarantino shelved the project but later reworked the script into a continuation of Cliff Booth’s story. Netflix acquired the screenplay for $20 million, with an overall production budget of $200 million.
Brad Pitt, who was originally cast in ‘The Movie Critic,’ played a significant role in bringing the project to life. He reportedly sought Tarantino’s blessing to present the script to Fincher, a move that ultimately led to the collaboration. Tarantino, known for his meticulous control over his work, agreed on the condition that a director of Fincher’s caliber would helm the project.
Production Details and Timeline
Filming for the sequel is slated to begin in July 2025 in California, continuing the original film’s homage to the golden era of Hollywood. Fincher has cleared his schedule to focus entirely on this project, setting aside other commitments, including his planned collaborations with Netflix on a ‘Squid Game’ spin-off and a Western titled ‘Bitterroot.’
While Brad Pitt’s involvement is confirmed, Leonardo DiCaprio, who played Rick Dalton in the original film, is not expected to return. Margot Robbie’s participation as Sharon Tate remains uncertain, though her team has reportedly expressed interest.
A Shift to Streaming
The sequel marks a significant departure from the theatrical release model of the original film, which was distributed by Sony Pictures and grossed nearly $400 million worldwide. Instead, the follow-up will debut exclusively on Netflix, reflecting the streaming giant’s growing influence in Hollywood. This shift is particularly notable given Tarantino’s past criticism of streaming platforms and his preference for traditional theatrical releases.
Fincher’s established relationship with Netflix likely played a crucial role in securing the project. The director has previously collaborated with the platform on critically acclaimed films like ‘Mank’ and ‘The Killer,’ both of which share thematic elements with the upcoming sequel.
Expanding the Cliff Booth Universe
Much of the sequel’s focus will be on Cliff Booth, a character whose backstory was further explored in Tarantino’s 2021 novelization of ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.’ The book delved into Booth’s past, including the controversial question of whether he killed his wife, a subplot that intrigued audiences of the original film. While it remains unclear how much of this backstory will feature in the sequel, it provides a rich foundation for further character development.
The decision to center the sequel on Booth aligns with Tarantino’s storytelling approach, which often revisits and expands upon his characters’ narratives. This focus also allows the sequel to stand on its own, rather than serving as a direct continuation of Rick Dalton’s storyline.
Industry Reactions and Implications
The announcement of the sequel has sparked significant interest within the film industry, particularly given its timing during CinemaCon 2025. The project represents a rare instance of a high-profile director taking on a sequel to another director’s work, a move that underscores the evolving dynamics of Hollywood filmmaking.
However, the decision to release the film on Netflix has also drawn criticism from proponents of theatrical releases. Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group chair Tom Rothman, a vocal advocate for traditional cinema, lamented the industry’s shift toward streaming during his CinemaCon presentation. Rothman had previously championed Tarantino’s original film as a testament to the enduring appeal of theatrical experiences.
Looking Ahead
As production gears up, the sequel to ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ promises to be a landmark collaboration between two of the most celebrated figures in modern cinema. With a substantial budget, a compelling script, and a star-studded team, the film has the potential to captivate audiences worldwide. Whether it will live up to the legacy of its predecessor remains to be seen, but it is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated projects of 2025.