Killers of the Flower Moon acts as a disturbing echo from America’s shadowy history, narrating a story filled with greed, corruption, and injustice that is both alarming and somber. The movie presents a harsh portrayal of the savage killings carried out in the 1920s against the affluent Osage Nation due to their oil reserves, a sequence of crimes infamously known as the Reign of Terror.
Essential Details The film.
Killers of the Flower Moon is an epic western crime drama produced in America in 2023, directed and co-produced by Martin Scorsese who also co-authored the script with Eric Roth. The movie takes its inspiration from David Grann’s non-fiction book published in 2017 bearing the same title and made its debut on October 20, 2023, in America.
- Release Date: October 20, 2023 (US)
- Director: Martin Scorsese
- Screenplay: Eric Roth
- Based on the book: “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI” by David Grann
Synopsis.
Set against the backdrop of Oklahoma during the 1920s, this movie unveils a series of murders executed against members of Osage Nation following discovery of oil on their tribal land. Despite retaining mineral rights over their reservation area, white opportunists aimed to snatch away their wealth.
The narrative revolves around Ernest, Mollie, and Hale who are central characters in this tale. Central Idea Killers of the Flower Moon is an impactful film that uses its narrative effectively to highlight injustices suffered by Indigenous communities in America.
From cinematography to set design to costumes along with directorial style – all these elements play significant roles in enhancing its overall effect and message.
Filming and Direction Cinematography.
Rodrigo Prieto’s cinematography stands out remarkably throughout this film as it beautifully captures vast landscapes belonging to Osage Nation while simultaneously creating tension through intense close-ups during runtime. A pulsating score adds rhythm providing momentum which increases tension during runtime making it significant.
Set Design & Costumes.
Set designs along with costumes enrich atmospheric ambiance throughout this film where sweeping detailed depictions particularly of the Osage Nation’s territory are evident. Costumes, a blend of traditional Osage outfits and contemporary clothing, effectively represent the era and cultural conflict that ensued during events portrayed in the film.
Directorial Style.
Martin Scorsese’s distinctive style shines throughout this film where he delves deep into his characters exploring their motivations thereby offering a multifaceted depiction of events.
His keen eye for detailing is particularly noticeable in the portrayal of Osage Nation’s territory and its culture. The depth added by Scorsese’s direction makes this film a captivating watch for viewers.
The Trailer.
Performance:
Main Cast and Supporting Actors.
The performances of the lead and supporting actors in “Killers of the Flower Moon” are highly commended. Leonardo DiCaprio, as Ernest Burkhardt, and Lily Gladstone, as Mollie, deliver compelling performances that add depth to their characters.
Their chemistry is palpable, and their portrayals of their characters are nuanced and believable. Robert De Niro, who plays William King Hale, gives one of the best performances of his career, capturing the kind of sociopath who can sell murder with a smile.
The supporting cast also delivers strong performances. Jesse Plemons, as a BOI agent who leads the investigation into the Osage murders, and John Lithgow and Brendan Fraser, as conflicting attorneys in the case, all contribute to the film’s overall impact.
Script and Dialogue:
Writing Quality.
The script of “Killers of the Flower Moon” is highly original and coherent. It is based on David Grann’s 2017 non-fiction book of the same name and is written by Martin Scorsese and Eric Roth.
The screenplay is gripping and sheds light on a distressing chapter of history where the Osage Nation’s newfound wealth attracted manipulation, extortion, and murder by opportunistic outsiders.
Dialogue.
The dialogue in “Killers of the Flower Moon” is effective in supporting character development and advancing the plot. The dialogue is natural and adds depth to the characters and their motivations. The film’s dialogue also serves to reveal the larger nature of evil and the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in America.
Plot and Pacing:
Plot Structure.
The plot structure of “Killers of the Flower Moon” is complex and engaging. The film takes viewers on a vivid odyssey of greed, murder, and ruthless ambition in the 1920s.
The narrative is centered around the Osage Nation’s newfound wealth and the manipulation, extortion, and murder committed by opportunistic outsiders. The film also explores the formation of the FBI by way of the investigation into the Osage murders.
Pacing.
The pacing of “Killers of the Flower Moon” is excellent. The film keeps the audience engaged with its gripping narrative and compelling performances.
The pacing is steady, allowing for a deep exploration of the characters and their motivations. The film’s pacing also contributes to its overall impact and message, making it a compelling watch for audiences.
Character Development:
Depth and Growth.
The characters in “Killers of the Flower Moon” are well-developed and grow significantly throughout the film. The main characters, Ernest Burkhardt and Mollie, undergo a significant transformation as they navigate the dangerous world of the Osage Nation.
Their relationship evolves from a forced marriage to a complex and nuanced bond that is both a source of tension and a beacon of hope in the midst of their dark circumstances. The characters’ growth is evident in their evolving motivations and actions, making them relatable and engaging for the audience.
Themes and Messages:
Themes.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” explores several themes, including racism, exploitation, and the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. The film delves into the prejudice and hate that ran rampant among the white people around the Osage reservation, highlighting the clear intent of many wealthy white landowners to destroy the tribe and steal its money.
The film also explores the concept of a culture of killing and a culture of complicity, revealing how many of these murders were carried out by individuals who were profiting from this very corrupt system of targeting the Osage.
Message Delivery.
The film effectively conveys its messages through the narrative. The story of the Osage Nation’s struggle for survival and justice against the white conspirators serves as a powerful message about the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples.
The film’s narrative also serves to reveal the larger nature of evil and the corruption that can thrive in the absence of justice. The film’s depiction of the Osage Nation’s struggle for survival and justice against the white conspirators serves as a powerful message about the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples.
Cinematography and Visuals:
Special Effects.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” makes use of special effects to enhance the film’s visual storytelling. The film’s depiction of the Osage Nation’s territory is sweeping and detailed, creating a vivid and immersive visual experience for the audience.
The film also makes use of visual storytelling techniques such as close-ups and long shots to add depth to the narrative and enhance the audience’s understanding of the characters and their motivations.
Visual Storytelling Techniques.
The film employs several unique visual storytelling techniques. One such technique is the use of color to depict the changing seasons and the changing fortunes of the Osage Nation.
The film also uses visual storytelling techniques such as close-ups and long shots to add depth to the narrative and enhance the audience’s understanding of the characters and their motivations.
The film’s use of visual storytelling techniques serves to enhance the audience’s understanding of the narrative and the characters, making the film a compelling watch for audiences.
Soundtrack and Score:
Musical Score.
The musical score for “Killers of the Flower Moon” is composed by Robbie Robertson. The score is a final work by Robertson, who died in August 2023, and the film is dedicated to his memory.
The score is highly regarded for its quality and impact on the viewing experience. It complements the film’s narrative and enhances the audience’s understanding of the characters and their motivations.
The score is particularly noteworthy for its use of traditional Osage music, which adds authenticity and depth to the film’s depiction of the Osage Nation.
Soundtrack.
The soundtrack for “Killers of the Flower Moon” is a mix of traditional Osage music and modern compositions. The soundtrack complements the mood of the film and enhances the audience’s understanding of the characters and their motivations.
The use of traditional Osage music adds authenticity and depth to the film’s depiction of the Osage Nation. The modern compositions by Robbie Robertson are effective in supporting the film’s narrative and conveying its themes.
Editing and Transitions:
Editing Techniques.
The editing techniques employed in “Killers of the Flower Moon” are of high quality. The film was cut together by Thelma Schoonmaker, a long-time Scorsese collaborator and one of the all-time great editors.
The editing is as much an art as a science, and “Killers of the Flower Moon” is a veritable goldmine for those willing to delve deep. The editing techniques employed in the film enhance the overall pacing and contribute to its overall impact and message.
Transitions.
The transitions between scenes in “Killers of the Flower Moon” are handled well. The transitions are smooth and contribute to the overall pacing of the film. They also enhance the audience’s understanding of the characters and their motivations. The transitions serve to enhance the narrative and make the film a compelling watch for audiences.
Audience Appeal:
Target Audience.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” caters to a wide range of audiences, including history enthusiasts, crime drama fans, and those interested in the struggles of Indigenous peoples. The film’s gripping narrative, compelling performances, and exploration of complex themes make it a compelling watch for audiences of all backgrounds.
The film’s depiction of the Osage Nation’s struggle for survival and justice against the white conspirators serves as a powerful message about the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, making it a film that resonates with a wide range of audiences.
Comparisons:
Genre Comparisons.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” is a crime drama that delves into the dark side of America’s history. It can be compared to other crime dramas by the same director, Martin Scorsese, such as “Goodfellas” and “The Irishman,” for its exploration of complex themes, compelling performances, and gripping narrative.
However, “Killers of the Flower Moon” stands out due to its unique focus on the struggles of Indigenous peoples and its depiction of the Osage Nation’s struggle for survival and justice against the white conspirators.
Conclusion:
Overall Opinion.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” is a compelling and thought-provoking film that provides a gripping exploration of the Osage Nation’s struggle for survival and justice against the white conspirators. The film’s strong performances, compelling narrative, and exploration of complex themes make it a must-watch for audiences of all backgrounds.
Recommendation.
I highly recommend “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Despite its longer runtime, the film’s compelling narrative, strong performances, and exploration of complex themes make it a compelling watch.
The film’s depiction of the Osage Nation’s struggle for survival and justice against the white conspirators serves as a powerful message about the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, making it a film that resonates with a wide range of audiences.
Closing Thought.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” is a powerful film that offers a gripping exploration of the Osage Nation’s struggle for survival and justice against the white conspirators. The film’s strong performances, compelling narrative, and exploration of complex themes make it a compelling watch for audiences of all backgrounds.
It serves as a powerful message about the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, making it a film that resonates with a wide range of audiences. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas, history, or just looking for a compelling narrative, “Killers of the Flower Moon” is a film that you won’t want to miss.
FAQ
What is the true story behind Killers of the Flower Moon?
The film delves into one of America’s most chilling murder ventures: the Osage Indian murders of the 1920s that were perpetrated for economic gain. It perpetuates not just a mere Hollywood thriller storyline, but echoes with resonating historical authenticity.
This recondite section of American History was masterfully excavated by journalist David Grann in his acclaimed book ‘Killers Of The Flower Moon: The Osage Murders And The Birth Of The FBI’, on which this movie is based. He vividly portrays:
– How affluent members of the Osage Indian Nation became murder targets during Oklahoma’s oil boom.
– Their guardian appointments—often anglo settlers—whom rather than shield their interests, ruthlessly plotted their demise.
– A revealing look at nascent detective techniques employed by Bureau investigators to uncover these heinous crimes.
What is the main point of Killers of the Flower Moon?
Central to this storyline is a disturbing exploration of how the unbridled pursuit of wealth triggers monstrous cruelties against indigenous populations. In essence, ‘Killers’ exposes the ruthless exploitation that paved way for capitalist opulence.
That said, there’s more than just revelations of an insidious crime spree underpinning this cinematic capture. This true story adaptation instigates introspective contemplation about our collective humanity — or rather our lack thereof when confronted with power and monetary gain.
The movie centers itself not only on events of pillage but on the painful ramifications when social systems sworn to protect are co-opted by egotistical objectives:
* It portrays stark realities lived by Osage people post oil discovery.
* It sheds light on government institutions’ complicity in fostering inequality.
* It highlights abuse perpetuated under veneer of guardianship policy.
Killers Of The Flower Moon – A mirror reflecting historical injustices; A magnifying glass honing in on man’s potential for depravity amidst lust for prosperity; But above all, it’s a potent reminder that forgetting isn’t necessarily synonymous with moving forward.
Is Killers of Flower Moon scary?
• The film’s narrative uncovers the chilling sequence of events termed as ‘Reign of Terror.’ A period where countless members from the Osage Indian Tribe were heartlessly murdered for financial exploitation.
• The depiction of greed and manipulation stitched into humanity’s fabric intensifies uneasiness throughout the story.
That said, Killers of Flower Moon does not inundate viewers with gore or gratuitous violence – it’s fear factor stems more from its portrayal of morally disturbing scenarios.
At its crux lies an exploration of sinister facets prevalent in societies past and present, triggering reflection far beyond its running time—a truly haunting theatrical experience if you ask me.
Truly encapsulating real-world horrors often side-lined by mainstream media, David Grann’s riveting narration turned cinematic gem clashes harsh history with modern sensibilities.
You may not scream in terror while watching it; but this this chilling masterpiece will surely leave you disquieted long after credit rolls.
Fragmenting preconceived notions about conventional scary cinema, Killers underscores a lingering breed fear – one rooted deeply in truth and reality.
Dennis Guy, I am a seasoned film critic and storyteller extraordinaire, is the driving force behind the insightful and captivating movie reviews on MovieReviewFY.com. With a passion for cinema that transcends genres and a keen eye for detail, Dennis brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the world of film critique.
