Quentin Tarantino's sprawling love letter to 1969 Los Angeles, Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, is enjoying a major streaming resurgence on Hulu as of May 2026. The film, which marked Tarantino's ninth (or tenth, depending on how you count Kill Bill) directorial effort, has climbed the platform's most-watched list, reminding audiences why it remains one of the most talked-about crime epics of the decade.
Released in 2019, the movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio as fading TV star Rick Dalton and Brad Pitt as his loyal stunt double Cliff Booth. Their chemistry anchored a story that reimagines the Manson Family murders with Tarantino's signature blend of dark humor and brutal violence. Critics were nearly unanimous in their praise, and the film earned ten Academy Award nominations, winning two: Best Supporting Actor for Pitt and Best Production Design for Barbara Ling and Nancy Haigh.
A Star-Studded Cast That Launched Careers
Beyond its leads, Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood is notable for featuring an ensemble of future A-listers. Margaret Qualley, Sydney Sweeney, Austin Butler, Maya Hawke, and Mikey Madison—who would later win the Best Actress Oscar—all appear in supporting roles. This deep bench of talent has only grown more impressive with time, making the film a fascinating time capsule of Hollywood's next generation.
The movie's streaming success comes as anticipation builds for The Adventures of Cliff Booth, a spin-off centered on Pitt's character. Written by Tarantino but directed by David Fincher, the project is set to premiere on Netflix worldwide on December 23, 2026, following a two-week IMAX run starting November 25. The cast includes Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Peter Weller, Elizabeth Debicki, Carla Gugino, and Scott Caan, promising another dose of Tarantino-esque crime drama.
Why It's Still a Must-Watch
For those who missed it in theaters or want a refresher before the spin-off, Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood is currently streaming on Hulu. Its blend of nostalgic period detail, sharp dialogue, and shocking violence makes it a late-night favorite that rewards repeat viewings. If you're in the mood for more crime epics, check out our list of underappreciated fantasy crime dramas that deserve a second look.
Tarantino has long maintained he will retire after ten films, and Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood stands as a fitting capstone—a story about the end of an era, told by a director who helped define modern cinema. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, now is the perfect time to revisit this masterpiece.
Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for more streaming updates and coverage of the upcoming Cliff Booth spin-off.
