Movies, madness, murder

horrifically off the rails.

And even if you do know your Manson Family history, this story will still manage to surprise you.

The sheer attention to detail and commitment to practical effects in this movie is breathtaking.

Entire Hollywood streetscapes were transformed with physical facades placed over shopfronts to create an authentic 1960s appearance.

Streets are filled with real period vehicles and extended shots of people driving their cars through these streetscapes, almost purely to show it off.

Yes, it’s indulgent (it’s a Tarantino film after all) but it also serves to create a rich, immersive feeling of reality in the film’s world.

DiCaprio and Pitt are fantastic, a double act who have a beautiful chemistry together, bouncing off one another with the ease of any classic Hollywood odd couple.

And while Robbie’s character is peripheral in a way, existing mainly in a parallel story thread, this distance is intentional and even within these confines, she delivers a hauntingly good portrayal of the tragic Sharon Tate.

This film also marks Luke Perry’s final screen appearance before his untimely death earlier this year.

At nearly three hours long, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood feels no longer than two, and if you are a lover of Tarantino’s work, it is a film you absolutely should not miss.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (MA15) is now showing at Village Cinemas, The State Cinema, Reading Cinemas, and the Star Theatre Launceston. Rating: ⋆⋆⋆⋆