Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth in the newly announced spinoff of Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, directed by David Fincher. Filming started in California this summer, with Quentin Tarantino credited as the scriptwriter. The film is rumored to be titled The Continuing Adventures of Cliff Booth and centers on Pitt’s character, the laid-back stuntman of Rick Dalton, played by Leonardo DiCaprio in the original.
Alongside Pitt, the cast includes Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Elizabeth Debicki, Scott Caan, and JB Tadena. It remains uncertain whether DiCaprio will reprise his role for this spinoff. The production is set in Los Angeles, continuing to explore the evolving landscape of Hollywood after the 1960s.
A Closer Look at Cliff Booth’s New Appearance on Set
Recent behind-the-scenes photos shared on Instagram by Just Jared reveal Pitt on the Los Angeles set, sporting a bright yellow patterned shirt reminiscent of his iconic look from the 2019 film. His character now sports longer hair and a mustache, suggesting a subtle but notable transformation since the events of the original movie. Pitt also holds a lollipop in multiple images, hinting at new personality traits or character details for Cliff Booth.
This visual continuity with some fresh elements reflects the film’s tone, which remains relaxed yet offers a glimpse into the changes facing Cliff Booth. The updated wardrobe echoes the character’s signature style, while signaling a passage of time and development for the stuntman turned fixer.
The Evolving Storyline and Its Impact on Cliff Booth’s Character
The spinoff is set approximately eight years after Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, following Cliff Booth as he navigates a different role in the movie industry—as a Hollywood fixer tasked with handling complicated situations that arise behind the scenes. This shift from stuntman to problem solver marks a darker and more complex narrative tone, in line with David Fincher’s directorial style.
While the original film focused on Rick Dalton’s struggles with fading fame and Cliff’s declining stunt work in the 1960s, the new feature ventures into a conflicted 1970s Hollywood. It aims to showcase sharp contrasts in the industry during that era, possibly revealing the grittier aspects of show business through Cliff’s eyes.
Brad Pitt’s Portrayal Reflects Growth and Change for Cliff Booth
Pitt’s new portrayal of Cliff Booth combines familiarity with a hint of transformation, encapsulated by his updated appearance and behavior. Unlike the more polished look Cliff had while working for Rick Dalton, the spinoff’s version projects a rugged, perhaps more hardened vibe.
Notably, the recent photos show Cliff walking the streets of Los Angeles rather than driving, a subtle yet meaningful shift that suggests a new phase in the character’s life. The recurring presence of the lollipop adds a quirky dimension, contrasting with Cliff’s serious fixer role to be uncovered in the story.
Despite these changes, the essence of Cliff’s personality and laid-back style remains intact, conveyed effectively through Pitt’s costume and mannerisms. Fans can anticipate a continuation of his compelling character, now layered with new experiences and challenges.
The Significance of This Spinoff for Hollywood and Audiences
The upcoming film represents an exciting extension of the Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood universe, providing deeper insights into a fan-favorite character. Brad Pitt’s return as Cliff Booth under David Fincher’s direction is highly anticipated, promising a blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling.
With its setting reflecting the shifting cultural and professional dynamics of 1970s Hollywood, the spinoff has the potential to explore themes of change, survival, and identity within an evolving industry. It may also set the stage for renewed interest in the characters originally brought to life by Quentin Tarantino’s screenplay.
As filming progresses, attention will focus on whether Leonardo DiCaprio’s Rick Dalton will reappear and how the story will intertwine with the original film’s narrative. Meanwhile, the revealed set photos offer the first glimpse of what audiences can expect, heightening anticipation for the movie’s eventual release.
