The Bill Simmons Podcast Tarantino’s Genius, Brad Pitt’s Finest Hour, and Other ‘Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood’ Reactions With Wesley Morris | The Bill Simmons Podcast
Aug 12, 2019
Wesley Morris, a Pulitzer Prize-winning critic for The New York Times, joins the conversation to dissect Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood.' They explore Brad Pitt's star power and how his performance marks a turning point in his career. Morris highlights Margot Robbie's portrayal of Sharon Tate, showcasing her innocence in a tumultuous era. The duo also delves into the film's nostalgic recreation of 1960s Hollywood, tackling themes of masculinity and societal critiques that lie beneath the surface.
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Pitt's Star Power and Box Office Failures
- Several films attempted to capitalize on Pitt's star power but failed, like Interview with a Vampire and Troy.
- These misfires highlight the challenge of building successful movies solely around star quality.
Juxtaposition of Careers
- The film juxtaposes the anxieties of fading stardom (DiCaprio and Pitt) with the optimism of a rising career (Robbie).
- This contrast highlights the different stages of a Hollywood career.
Tate's Untainted Optimism
- Robbie's portrayal of Sharon Tate emphasizes her untainted optimism and joy at the start of her career.
- This portrayal makes her murder even more tragic.