Once Upon a Time in Hollywood * * * *

Maybe we should get to know our new next door  neighbors.

        The years' most anticipated film, and it doesn't disappoint.
         It is rather different - and a lot more lighthearted - than what I expected, but it's a great yarn. Much of the controversy and false publicity in regard to this film has been around the Sharon Tate murders. Forget about that.  Even the guy who plays Charles Manson is like a 30 second scene.
        What Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is about is the guy who lived next door to Sharon Tate and Roman Polanski.  His name is Ric Dalton and he is played superbly by Leonardo De Caprio.  Ric Dalton's best mate is also his stunt double, Cliff Booth, played by Brad Pitt.  These two great actors absolutely fire off each other.  They are a great team in the story and a great team in this film.
       Set over 1969 (interestingly it virtually ignores the moon landing) it features Ric Dalton struggle to stay relevant in a changing Hollywood. He was a popular actor in Cowboy TV series and then moved to other shows.  He's always had his best buddy do his stunt doubles.  But Cliff has a dubious reputation and not many producers are happy to work with him.
       Cliff also chauffeurs Ric Dalton (mainly because Ric lost his licence for drinking).  One day Cliff picks up a hippie hitchiker and discovers she is living on a "farm".  Things are a bit weird there.  We can assume this is the cult group that Manson has created.  Later we see them take the bloody and notorious action that we all have heard of - but it's before they struck at the Polnanski - Tate home.  And the outcome is different.  Bloody, yes, but I have to admit it would also be some of the most amusing screen violence I have ever seen.  Tarantino really knows how to do that!
       He also knows how to charm us.  The scenes of Sharon Tate (mostly alone) played by Margot Robbie are an insight into her naivety and hunger to be loved.  And the scene with Ric Dalton working with a child actor is just delightful.  Then there is the  hilarious fictional "altercation" between Cliff and Bruce Lee. There are plenty of fine cameos too.  Particularly enjoyable is Al Pacino as a producer.
       It's a highly enjoyable fun yarn and a great piece of drama.