Why Did Sharon Tate, Margot Robbie, Not Die in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood?
The Films of Sharon Tate and Quentin Tarantino
The film 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' directed by the legendary Quentin Tarantino has led to much discussion and debate among viewers. One major point of contention is the survival of Sharon Tate, portrayed by Margot Robbie. This article delves into the reasons behind Tarantino's decision to have Sharon Tate live in the film and explores the broader theme of historical revisionism in his work.
Sharon Tate's Tragic End
Sharon Tate, the talented young actress, was brutally murdered by members of the Manson Family in 1969. This event, known as the Tate-Labianca murders, is a dark chapter in Hollywood history. The realities of these murders are horrific and marked by violence and injustice. Tarantino's film takes a creative liberty by having Sharon Tate survive, diverging from the historical facts and providing a thematic exploration of redemption and the power of narrative.
Quentin Tarantino's Artistic Vision
Tarantino is known for his unconventional storytelling and his willingness to mix facts and fiction in his films. In 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood', he creates an alternate reality where Sharon Tate survives. This narrative choice serves multiple purposes. It allows Tate to experience a different fate, reflecting themes of survival, resilience, and the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. By altering the historical outcome, Tarantino invites us to question and reflect on the nature of reality and the impact of fiction on our understanding of history.
Catharsis and Tribute
The film culminates in a climactic confrontation with the Manson Family, where Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) intervene and prevent the murders from happening. This climactic scene not only provides a dramatic resolution but also serves as a tribute to Sharon Tate's legacy. It humanizes Tate and elevates her from a historical footnote to a cultural figure whose fate has been reimagined and given a second chance.
Screen as a Double-Edged Sword
However, it is also important to recognize the potential danger of believing everything seen on screen without critical thinking. There are those who consume media without questioning the facts behind the narrative. The misleading portrayal of the Manson Family in the film has even led some to believe they were not as violent as they were. This reflects a broader issue of media consumption and the responsibility of viewers to seek out accurate information and not rely solely on what is presented on the screen.
Historical Revisionism and Narrative Control
Historical revisionism is a technique used by filmmakers to reinterpret past events and personas. It allows for a re-imagining of historical figures and events, often to serve a contemporary narrative or to highlight particular themes. Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' is a prime example of this. By altering the outcome of Sharon Tate's life, Tarantino creates an alternate reality that emphasizes the power of fiction to shape our understanding of history.
The Mind-Game of Filmmaking
It is a well-established tradition in filmmaking to mislead the audience and create a sense of inevitability. This is often seen in blockbusters where foreshadowing is used to build tension. 'Avatar: The Way of Water' and 'Endgame', for instance, both had long foreshadowing leading up to a climactic scene. Just as we know Neo is going to win the final battle in 'The Matrix', we are certain that the protagonist in 'Endgame' will survive, despite the overwhelming odds. This leads to a cathartic resolution that resonates with the audience.
Conclusion
Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' is a complex exploration of history, fiction, and reality. By having Sharon Tate survive, he challenges our understanding of the past and invites us to reflect on the power of narrative. While historical accuracy is important, it is equally important to engage critically with the media we consume and to question the narratives presented to us.