The American Film Institute (AFI) today revealed a special event at AFI FEST 2026 presented by Canva, ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD WITH QUENTIN TARANTINO . The evening will include a conversation with Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Quentin Tarantino following a screening of ONCE UPON A TIME…IN HOLLYWOOD.
Mark your calendars, folks! On October 23, the legendary Quentin Tarantino is making a splash at the AFI Fest with a conversation and screening of his hit film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Yes, you heard that right! You can catch him at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre, a place that seems to have more cinematic history than most people have in their family trees.
Now, why is this event particularly exciting? Well, aside from the obvious fact that it’s Tarantino—who, let’s be honest, could probably make a riveting documentary about watching paint dry—this event is also a lead-up to the release of The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth. You know, that film directed by David Fincher that gives Brad Pitt another chance to charm us all as Cliff Booth, the character we didn’t know we needed but absolutely adore.
Tarantino’s appearance is especially significant since it’s a return to the very spot where Once Upon a Time in Hollywood had its world premiere. It’s like a homecoming for the film, but instead of awkward family reunions and questionable potluck dishes, we get a cinematic celebration with one of the most talked-about directors of our time. You might even catch him reminiscing about the good old days of filmmaking—like when he got to make a movie with Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt, which, let’s face it, is probably a highlight of any director’s career.
For those of you who might be wondering if this is just another run-of-the-mill event, let me assure you: Tarantino is known for his engaging storytelling and sharp wit. Expect an evening filled with insights, anecdotes, and possibly a few of his infamous tangents. And who knows? Maybe he’ll even reveal how he convinced Brad Pitt to jump back into Cliff Booth’s shoes for another round.
So, whether you’re a die-hard Tarantino fan or just someone looking for an entertaining evening, this event is bound to deliver. Just remember to bring your popcorn and maybe a notebook—because who wouldn’t want to jot down some of Tarantino’s gems?
In summary, if you’re in the Los Angeles area and have a love for film, this is the event that should be at the top of your must-see list. It’s not every day you get to hear from a director who has left such a mark on cinema. Plus, you can always say you were there when Tarantino graced the TCL Chinese Theatre once again. Who wouldn’t want that bragging right? So, see you there—let’s hope there’s no ‘once upon a time’ when we miss it!
Inspired by: “Quentin Tarantino Confirmed for ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ Conversation at AFI Fest” (r/Entertainment)