David Fincher To Direct Sequel To Once Upon A Time In Hollywood

In a surprising twist that has Hollywood buzzing, a sequel to Quentin Tarantino’s acclaimed film "Once Upon A Time In Hollywood" is officially in the works, with David Fincher set to direct and Tarantino himself penning the script. The news, which surfaced on April 1, 2025, has sparked excitement among fans and industry insiders alike, as Brad Pitt is confirmed to reprise his role as the enigmatic stuntman Cliff Booth.

The project, which is being developed under Fincher's first-look deal with Netflix, is reportedly fast-tracked with a substantial budget of around $200 million. Filming is expected to begin in California this July, indicating that the production team is eager to bring this sequel to life as soon as possible. The film's release date is still under wraps, but insiders speculate it could hit streaming platforms sometime in 2026.

The origins of this sequel trace back to Tarantino's scrapped tenth film, "The Movie Critic," which was initially intended to explore the life of a film critic in the 1970s. However, Tarantino's fascination with Booth's character led him to adapt elements of that narrative into this new project, allowing the character's story to unfold further. As Tarantino explained, he didn't want his final film to be a sequel, indicating a desire to explore original narratives instead. Yet, his attachment to Cliff Booth remained strong, leading to this unexpected collaboration.

Brad Pitt, who earned an Academy Award for his portrayal of Booth in the original film, expressed enthusiasm for revisiting the character. "It’s understandable that Pitt would want to reprise Booth: He won his first Academy Award for playing the stuntman and confidante of Rick Dalton," noted a source close to the production. The sequel promises to delve deeper into Booth's past, including the controversial allegations surrounding his character, such as the mysterious circumstances of his wife's death.

While the focus will primarily be on Cliff Booth, the return of Leonardo DiCaprio as Rick Dalton remains uncertain. Reports indicate that DiCaprio's involvement is doubtful, although a cameo is not entirely out of the question. Margot Robbie, who portrayed Sharon Tate in the original film, has also expressed interest in being part of the sequel, should the opportunity arise.

The collaboration between Fincher and Pitt is not new; the two have previously worked together on iconic films such as "Se7en," "Fight Club," and "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." This latest project marks a significant shift as it will be the first time Tarantino's script is directed by someone other than himself, a fact that adds an intriguing layer to the production.

Industry insiders have noted that Netflix's investment in this sequel reflects the platform's commitment to producing high-quality content that resonates with audiences. "Netflix may have paid over $20 million for Tarantino's screenplay," according to sources familiar with the deal. The streaming giant's willingness to allocate such a budget underscores the potential financial success of the project.

As the film gears up for production, fans are left speculating about the direction the story will take. With Tarantino's penchant for unpredictable narratives, the sequel could explore various avenues, potentially introducing new characters while expanding on Booth's adventures. Given the original film's blend of historical fiction and Tarantino's unique storytelling style, expectations are high for what this sequel will bring.

In the original "Once Upon A Time In Hollywood," audiences were captivated by the nostalgic portrayal of 1960s Los Angeles, where Booth and Dalton navigated the changing landscape of Hollywood amidst the backdrop of the Tate murders. The film's critical and commercial success, grossing over $392 million worldwide, solidified its place in cinematic history. Now, with the sequel on the horizon, fans are eager to see how Booth's journey continues in this new chapter.

As the production team prepares to roll cameras, the excitement surrounding the sequel continues to build. With a stellar cast, a renowned director, and a beloved writer, the project is poised to make waves in the film industry. While the title remains unconfirmed, speculation suggests it could be called "Twice Upon A Time...In Hollywood" or even retain the original film's name, creating a sense of continuity.

As the Hollywood landscape evolves, so too does the story of Cliff Booth. This sequel promises to explore the character's complexities and delve into the themes of fame, morality, and the ever-changing nature of the film industry. With Tarantino's signature flair and Fincher's directorial vision, audiences can anticipate a cinematic experience that challenges conventions and captivates the imagination.

As fans eagerly await more details about casting and plot developments, one thing remains clear: the legacy of "Once Upon A Time In Hollywood" is far from over. With the sequel on the horizon, the iconic world created by Tarantino is set to expand, and the adventures of Cliff Booth are ready to unfold once again. As Pitt himself might say, "And away we go!"