New York (CNN Business) Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time In Hollywood" exceeded expectations this weekend becoming the director's highest-grossing opening weekend ever.

The film, which takes place in 1969 Hollywood and stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt, made $41 million. It took the No. 2 spot at the domestic box office this weekend.

Sony had projected the film would make roughly $30 million this weekend. Tarantino's previous highest-grossing opening was "Inglourious Basterds," which opened to $38 million in 2009.

Disney DIS The windfall for the film this weekend may not seem like much compared to some of the big numbers brought in from the likes ofthis summer, but it's a strong start for an R-rated original film that's not connected to a brand or franchise. "Once Upon a Time In Hollywood" came with a budget of $90 million.

Tarantino's name recognition, the film's A-list cast and strong reviews likely helped the film this weekend. "Once Upon a Time In Hollywood" garnered an 86% review score on Rotten Tomatoes and a "B" CinemaScore from audiences.

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