Victoria Thomas Reveals How Tarantino Cast Future Hollywood Stars

Los Angeles, CA — When Quentin Tarantino’s film “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” debuted in the summer of 2019, it was heralded for its star-studded cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. However, it also became a launchpad for new talent, thanks in part to casting director Victoria Thomas, who played a pivotal role in bringing emerging actors to the forefront of Hollywood.

In a recent interview, Thomas discussed her experience casting actors just before their careers skyrocketed. Notable mentions include Mikey Madison, Austin Butler, Margaret Qualley, and Sydney Sweeney, who have all since established themselves as prominent figures in the industry.

“We always say to each other, ‘We grew up in the same house, miles apart,’” said Thomas of her relationship with Tarantino. The film itself is set in 1969, a transitional period from Old Hollywood to New Hollywood, which allowed for a unique casting opportunity. The ensemble included both seasoned actors like Al Pacino and newer faces that would soon become household names.

Thomas remarked that there was ‘no agenda’ in casting a younger generation, but rather, they were drawn to talent that was ready for its moment. This approach led to a casting call that attracted many eager actors. “If I didn’t meet them before, I met them then. It was no problem getting people in the room,” Thomas explained.

For example, Austin Butler impressed Anna Thomas after recent performances and he sent in an audition tape. He showcased his skills playing a character that later morphed into the role of Manson henchman Tex Watson, capturing the attention of both Thomas and Tarantino.

Tarentino instructed actors to audition for both good and bad roles, allowing casting directors to gauge their range. “You could really see who leaned into their bad-guy-ness,” she noted.

One memorable audition involved actress Billie Eilish, who at the age of 16, initially auditioned but was primarily focused on her music career. She wound up submitting a self-tape while on the road for a studio session, but did not land a role in the film.

Thomas emphasized the importance of timing in the casting process. “Timing is crucial for casting,” she said, noting how certain roles just mesh perfectly with the right actor at the right moment.

As the film approached its production phase, Thomas recalls additional actors vying for roles created excitement within the casting halls. With the chance to be featured in a Tarantino film, many actresses brought their unique talents and personal touches to their auditions.

Thomas remarked, “There’s always a new generation that’s emerging. We were just trying to explore that a little bit.” Among the young women examined for roles was Mikey Madison, who ultimately secured her position as a key character through a captivating audition.

As casting unfolded, many performances led to a deeper commentary on the generational shifts within Hollywood, with Tarantino and Thomas at the helm of that exploration.

Ultimately, Victoria Thomas’s efforts have contributed significantly to not only the success of “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” but the rise of today’s most promising stars in the film industry.