Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, directed by Quentin Tarantino, is a critically acclaimed film that weaves together both real and fictional events of Hollywood’s golden age. The noteworthy ensemble cast is one of the film’s highlights. By educating students on the cast’s backgrounds, career highlights and their roles in the film, educators can help aspiring actors or film enthusiasts establish a deeper understanding of artists in Hollywood.
1. Introducing the Leading Actors
Begin with an overview of the leading actors, Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. Start by discussing their respective backgrounds, early lives, and routes into acting. Explain how both actors have come to enjoy successful careers with numerous accolades and feature in high-profile films.
Leonardo DiCaprio: DiCaprio began his career on television before transitioning into film, with some of his most iconic roles being Jack Dawson in Titanic (1997), Jordan Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street (2013), and Hugh Glass in The Revenant (2015) – which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Brad Pitt: Pitt started his acting career with guest appearances on television shows before moving into movies as well. Some of his most memorable performances include roles in Fight Club (1999), Ocean’s Eleven (2001), World War Z (2013), and Ad Astra (2019).
2. Their Roles in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
DiCaprio plays Rick Dalton, a fading Western actor grappling with life changes as new opportunities arise within the industry. Pitt portrays Cliff Booth, Dalton’s longtime friend and stunt double who remains loyal despite his own inner struggles.
Both characters capture unique aspects of the Hollywood lifestyle during that period, illustrating themes such as friendship, loyalty, and personal growth. Discuss how these themes are relevant not only to the actors but also to any individuals in creative professions.
3. Supporting Cast
Introduce some of the film’s key supporting cast members like Margot Robbie, Emile Hirsch, Timothy Olyphant, and Damian Lewis. Discuss their background in acting and notable roles, providing context to help students compare these actors with DiCaprio and Pitt.
Examples of their works include:
Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad (2016), Tonya Harding in I, Tonya (2017), and Sharon Tate in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019).
Emile Hirsch appeared in Into the Wild (2007) as Christopher McCandless, Speed Racer (2008), and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood as Jay Sebring.
Timothy Olyphant starred in TV shows like Deadwood (2004-2006) and Justified (2010-2015), along with films such as The Crazies (2010) and The First Wives Club (2022).
Damian Lewis played Nicholas Brody in Homeland (2011-2013), Bobby Axelrod in Billions (2016-present), and Steve McQueen in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
4. Enhancing the Learning Experience
To further enrich students’ understanding of the cast members, show clips or behind-the-scenes interviews that feature the actors discussing their roles, preparation, and experiences on set. Such materials can provide valuable insight into the challenges they faced and their relationships with other cast members.
5. Conclusion
By exploring the backgrounds and careers of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’s exceptional cast, students can gain a broader understanding of the film industry’s inner workings. This knowledge will not only benefit aspiring actors but can also inspire admiration for the creative forces that bring stories to life on screen.
