Once Upon a Time

In February 1969, actor Rick Dalton shares his feelings of despair with his best friend, Cliff Booth. He feels that his acting career is over, especially after a discouraging lunch with his producer Marvin Schwarz.

Cliff Booth, Rick's former stunt double, struggles to find work due to the rumors swirling around his past, particularly the mysterious death of his wife. He lives in a trailer with his loyal pit bull, Brandy, and relies on Rick for job opportunities.

Rick secretly hopes to befriend his new neighbors, actress Sharon Tate and director Roman Polanski, to revive his dwindling career. This situation heightens his desire for acceptance and relevance in Hollywood.

Sharon Tate and Roman Polanski attend a glamorous party at the Playboy Mansion, immersing themselves in the vibrant Hollywood scene. These experiences encapsulate the glittering life that Rick yearns for.

Cliff Booth reminisces about a sparring match with Bruce Lee, highlighting his own past accomplishments. The juxtaposition serves to emphasize his fallen status in the shadow of Rick's struggles.

The infamous Charles Manson shows up at Tate and Polanski's home searching for record producer Terry Melcher but is turned away by Tate's stylist, Sebring. This encounter foreshadows the impending chaos in their lives.

Cliff Booth picks up a hitchhiker named Pussycat and drops her off at the Spahn Ranch, a place that holds troubled memories for him. He becomes wary of the characters inhabiting the ranch, revealing layers of danger that lurk beneath.

Dalton secures a new role as a villain in the series Lancer, which revitalizes his confidence. He forms a bond with his young co-star, Trudi, and begins to find hope once again in his acting career.

Despite initial success, Dalton experiences emotional turmoil stemming from his struggle with alcoholism. During filming, these challenges lead to a breakdown, yet he ultimately manages to deliver a powerful performance.

Casting agent Marvin Schwarz offers Dalton a role in an Italian Spaghetti Western. Although he views the genre unfavorably, Dalton accepts the offer and invites Cliff to join him on this unexpected journey.

Dalton and Booth embark on a six-month adventure in Italy, where Dalton films multiple movies. During this time, he finds love and even gets married, marking a significant change in his personal life.

Upon returning to Los Angeles, Dalton faces the harsh reality of his finances and recognizes he can no longer afford Cliff's companionship. They reluctantly part ways, marking the end of an era in their friendship.

While Cliff is high on an acid-laced cigarette, he and Brandy are confronted by Tex Watson and his associates, who plan to invade Tate's home under Manson's orders. This moment marks a chilling turn in the narrative.

Dalton hears the chaos outside and bravely confronts the intruders. This escalates into a violent confrontation, where each character struggles for survival amid the horror unfolding around them.

In a surreal twist, the intertwined fates of all characters lead to an unexpected reunion at Tate's home. Former strangers become allies in a shocking climax, encapsulating the chaotic nature of Hollywood during the era.