Netflix Drops $200 Million for Brad Pitt’s ‘Cliff Booth’ Return—But Is Leonardo DiCaprio’s Cameo in Jeopardy?
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Netflix is gearing up for an exciting new project with acclaimed director David Fincher, bringing back Brad Pitt in a reprise of his role as Cliff Booth from Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood. Filming is set to begin in July 2025, and while the film isn’t a direct sequel, it promises to offer fans a fresh perspective on the beloved world Tarantino created.
A New Chapter in the Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood Universe
The upcoming film will unfold a few years after the events of Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, following Cliff Booth as he navigates a new chapter of his life. Though details about the storyline are still under wraps, the film is being described as a “follow-up” rather than a traditional sequel. According to Sean Fennessey, a close friend of Tarantino, the project will be told from a different angle and tone, much like the adaptations of Raymond Chandler’s detective novels such as The Big Sleep—same character, new narrative.
David Fincher, known for his darker, suspense-filled films like Se7en and Zodiac, brings his signature style to this project, infusing it with a potential for intense drama and visually captivating scenes. Fincher’s long-standing relationship with Netflix, under his first-look deal, continues to bear fruit, as the streaming giant is set to give the director a budget of approximately $200 million. This investment underscores Netflix’s commitment to producing high-quality content and attracting A-list talent.
The Potential for Leonardo DiCaprio’s Return
Although it hasn’t been officially confirmed, reports indicate that Leonardo DiCaprio’s character, Rick Dalton, may make a brief cameo in the film. This has led to speculation about the logistics of his involvement, particularly regarding his compensation. Insiders have revealed that Netflix offered DiCaprio a $3 million deal for just one day of shooting, but the actor, who typically commands around $20 million for a full film, has reportedly expressed concerns that the offer is too low.
This situation has led to significant media attention, with fans and industry professionals alike watching closely to see whether DiCaprio will accept the deal or push for a more lucrative offer. This drama highlights the complexities of Hollywood negotiations, where even a brief cameo can spark major financial discussions. DiCaprio is no stranger to high-profile projects, with his involvement in One Battle After Another, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, and other major films including Evel Knievel, directed by Damien Chazelle, and a crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese set in Hawaii.
Margot Robbie’s Possible Return
Another source of speculation surrounds the potential return of Margot Robbie, who starred as Sharon Tate in Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood. While no official details have been confirmed regarding her participation in the upcoming film, the prospect of her return has sparked excitement among fans eager to see how the storylines of beloved characters might evolve.
The Hollywood of Yesterday and Today
The film’s exploration of Hollywood’s past and present is poised to be a central theme, with the rich tapestry of the entertainment industry serving as both backdrop and character. As the film progresses toward production, audiences can expect more details to surface about how this new project will relate to the world of Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood while offering fresh insights into the ever-changing dynamics of the industry.
What’s Next for the Project?
With David Fincher at the helm and Brad Pitt leading the charge, expectations for this Netflix film are high. Fans of Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood are eager to see how this new installment will unfold, and how it will continue to explore the lives of its iconic characters. Whether or not DiCaprio agrees to the cameo, the intrigue surrounding his involvement and the film’s production will continue to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Netflix, David Fincher, and an A-list cast promises to deliver not only a visually stunning film but one that delves into the fascinating evolution of Hollywood, paying homage to its past while forging a new path forward. Fans are excited, and the film’s potential to captivate audiences is undeniable as the next chapter in this cinematic journey unfolds.
