Brad Pitt & Leonardo DiCaprio in Talks for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Sequel – What We Know So Far

A Hollywood Reunion in the Making?

Exciting news for movie lovers! Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio are reportedly in talks to reunite for a Once Upon a Time in Hollywood spin-off. This time, David Fincher—the visionary director behind Fight Club and Se7en—is stepping in to direct, while Netflix is backing the project. The film is expected to go into production by late summer.

Not a Direct Sequel – But an Expansion

According to The InSneider, the upcoming film isn’t a traditional sequel but rather a derivative project expanding the world created by Quentin Tarantino. Tarantino, who wrote the script, won’t be directing but has given his approval for the film to proceed under Fincher’s leadership. Thanks to Tarantino’s special deal with Sony, he retains certain rights to the film’s characters, making this spin-off possible.

Brad Pitt Returns as Cliff Booth

Brad Pitt is set to reprise his Oscar-winning role as Cliff Booth, the laid-back stuntman from the original 2019 film. Insiders say Pitt was deeply intrigued by certain aspects of Tarantino’s script and requested that another director take charge. Once Tarantino agreed, Pitt brought Fincher on board, leading Netflix to pick up the project.

Leonardo DiCaprio’s Involvement—Will He Join?

While Pitt’s return is confirmed, Leonardo DiCaprio’s participation is still uncertain. DiCaprio, who played Rick Dalton, is in talks, but negotiations are taking longer than expected. Reports suggest DiCaprio is hesitant to commit to the project, as his role would be significantly smaller than in the first film. The focus is expected to shift towards Cliff Booth’s story rather than Rick Dalton’s journey.

Why is DiCaprio Hesitant?

Netflix is eager to bring DiCaprio on board, reportedly offering $20 million for Tarantino’s script. However, the actor is also negotiating for another Netflix project about Evel Knievel, which could impact his decision.

David Fincher Takes Over from Tarantino

With Quentin Tarantino stepping away from the director’s chair, David Fincher will lead the project. Fincher and Pitt have a long history of successful collaborations, having worked together on:

• Fight Club (1999)
• Se7en (1995)
• The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

Originally, Fincher was set to direct Bitterroot, a Western film, but he has reportedly put that project on hold to take on this new venture. He is also involved in Netflix’s Squid Game adaptation, though that remains in early development.

What About Tarantino’s Last Film, The Movie Critic?

Tarantino initially planned to direct The Movie Critic as his tenth and final film, but sources now claim the project has been shelved indefinitely. His future involvement in filmmaking remains uncertain.

What to Expect from the Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Spin-Off

While details remain under wraps, sources suggest the film will explore Cliff Booth’s backstory and life beyond Rick Dalton. Fans of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood can expect the same stylized storytelling and sharp dialogue, but with Fincher’s unique touch.

Will This Be a Hit?

With Brad Pitt’s return, David Fincher’s direction, and Netflix’s backing, this project has all the ingredients for success. The biggest question remains—will Leonardo DiCaprio officially sign on? Fans will have to wait for more updates in the coming months.