Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" Event at AFI Fest
Entertainment

Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" Event at AFI Fest

Ta-Nehisi Coates

By Ta-Nehisi Coates

Filmmaker Quentin Tarantino is set to return to the spotlight in Hollywood for a unique event at AFI Fest. This engagement will feature a screening of his critically acclaimed 2019 movie, "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," followed by a conversation with the director himself. The film, which captivated audiences with its star-studded cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, originally premiered at the very same iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in July 2019 where this special event will take place on Friday, October 23.

The timing of this discussion is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with several new developments related to Tarantino's work. Ahead of the November 25 debut of Netflix's "The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth," a David Fincher-directed feature expanding on Pitt's character from Tarantino's film, there is much anticipation regarding potential insights Tarantino might share. "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" itself explored 1969 Los Angeles through the eyes of television actor Rick Dalton (DiCaprio) and his loyal stunt double Cliff Booth (Pitt), navigating a changing era in the film industry. Additionally, Tarantino is slated to release a novel titled "The Adventures of Cliff Booth" (published by Harper) this December, further delving into the world of his celebrated character. These new ventures underscore Tarantino's continuous creative output and his deep connection to the Hollywood narrative.

Beyond his cinematic and literary pursuits, Tarantino is also making his mark in the theatrical world. It was recently revealed that his debut as a playwright in London's West End, "The Popinjay Cavalier," is scheduled to open at the Phoenix Theatre on March 18, 2027. Produced by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sonia Friedman Productions, the play will feature Sacha Baron Cohen and run until June 13, with previews beginning February 23. This diverse array of projects highlights Tarantino's expansive artistic vision, demonstrating his versatility across different storytelling mediums and reinforcing his status as a major cultural force.

Quentin Tarantino's ongoing contributions to film, literature, and theater inspire audiences to appreciate the limitless possibilities of creative expression. His willingness to explore new formats and revisit beloved narratives encourages a deeper engagement with storytelling, proving that passion and innovation can lead to enduring artistic legacies.