(Image Source: Sony Pictures)
Late last month, entertainment outlet World of Reel reported that director David Fincher had quietly signed on to helm a sequel to an existing property, with his longtime collaborator Brad Pitt attached to star and Netflix on board as distributor.
Speculation at the time suggested this could be the long-gestating "World War Z" sequel that Fincher and Pitt had previously attempted to develop, with Paramount Pictures simply licensing the project to Netflix for continued development. However, today, another outlet, The Playlist, was first to reveal the truth: the project is, in fact, a follow-up to Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood."
(Image Source: Sony Pictures)
The Playlist reported that the sequel's script was conceived and penned by original director Quentin Tarantino. However, Tarantino, opting not to direct himself, approached Fincher to take the helm. Sources indicate the film has been officially greenlit and is slated to begin production this July, with a budget potentially reaching up to $200 million. Netflix has reportedly already paid Tarantino a hefty $20 million for the script.
Following the news, renowned film journalist Jeff Sneider further supplemented the report on his blog, The InSneider, stating that Leonardo DiCaprio is also in talks to return. However, DiCaprio appears hesitant to commit, as his role is reportedly smaller this time, with the true protagonist being Brad Pitt's stunt double character, Cliff Booth. This has reportedly caused some concern for Fincher, Pitt, and Netflix, who are actively trying to persuade him.
The Playlist also noted that Margot Robbie, who portrayed the late actress Sharon Tate in the original film, and her team are aware of the project and would be very willing to return if her involvement is required.
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Both The Playlist and The InSneider mentioned that Fincher is a busy filmmaker with multiple projects in development, but upon receiving Tarantino's script, he immediately prioritized it over his other commitments. However, Deadline offered a different account, claiming that Pitt loved the script after reading it. Since Tarantino wasn't planning to direct, Pitt reportedly requested Tarantino's permission to show it to his friend Fincher. Tarantino agreed, Fincher was reportedly very interested after reading it, and all parties smoothly reached a consensus.
Currently, no further plot details for the sequel are available, though Deadline's report briefly stated that the film will focus on Cliff Booth's subsequent adventures.