A new coffee table book titled *The Making of Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood*, authored by Jay Glennie, is set to hit the shelves this week. This book offers fans an intriguing behind-the-scenes glimpse into Tarantino’s reimagining of the Manson Family murders and serves as a tribute to a vibrant Los Angeles era filled with creativity and glamour.
Quentin Tarantino’s Vision
Quentin Tarantino sought Glennie’s expertise, having admired his work on classic films such as *The Deer Hunter* and *Taxi Driver*. Glennie was commissioned to provide a comprehensive exploration of what Tarantino considers his favorite film.
Auditioning the Manson Family
The casting process for the Manson Family roles, which included emerging stars like Austin Butler, Sydney Sweeney, Maya Hawke, Mikey Madison, and Margaret Qualley, was extensive. Specifically, the workshop took place on June 11, targeting Butler’s one day off from theater commitments.
- Key Dates: June 11 – Manson Family Workshop
- Casting Director: Vickie Thomas
Austin Butler expressed his excitement about the audition, having been yearning for the opportunity to meet Tarantino since he was 12. His self-taped audition impressed the director, leading to a personal meeting in Los Angeles.
Preparation and Mindset
Butler arrived for the workshop filled with determination and a clear mindset that encouraged him to be present without overthinking. Upon learning he was auditioning for the role of Tex Watson, he quickly gathered information to prepare himself mentally.
During the audition, he was joined by other hopefuls, including James Landry Hébert, who acknowledged Butler as a noteworthy competitor. The atmosphere was tense yet friendly as the actors competed for iconic roles, surrounded by fellow aspirants portraying the Manson girls.
Quentin Tarantino’s Directorial Approach
Tarantino aimed to create a relaxed atmosphere during the auditions, encouraging all participants to ease their nerves. He emphasized that every actor had been chosen based on merit alone, making the process more inclusive.
Insights from the Audition Day
The audition day was filled with excitement and opportunities for creative expression. Tarantino guided the actors, offering notes while allowing them to experiment with their roles.
- Memorable Experience: Actors had the chance to perform scenes and receive feedback in an informal setting.
- Dynamic Group Work: The casting director facilitated interaction among actors to foster collaboration.
After an intense day of auditions, Butler and Hawke found themselves alone in Tarantino’s office, indicating they had made a significant impression. Tarantino soon confirmed Butler’s role as Tex Watson, which marked a pivotal moment in his career.
Role Confirmations
By the end of the day, several actors received confirmations for their roles in the film. Maya Hawke was officially welcomed into the Manson Family, alongside Mikey Madison, who secured a role as Kitty Kat.
Sydney Sweeney also learned of her casting as Snake, which left her overjoyed and floating on “cloud nine.” Butler, invigorated by his success, immediately thought of his upcoming performance opposite Denzel Washington in his theatrical role.
Conclusion
As the anticipation builds for the book’s release, fans can look forward to a unique insight into how Quentin Tarantino transformed historical figures like the Manson Family into film icons. *The Making of Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood* promises to be a significant addition to film literature and an essential piece for every fan’s collection.
