In the 1920s, members of the Osage Native American tribe of Osage County, Oklahoma, are murdered after oil is found on their land, and the FBI decides to investigate.
In Martin Scorsese's latest film, Killers of the Flower Moon, audiences are transported to a period in history that's both harrowing and authentic. This extensive Western crime drama delves into the haunting story of the Osage Indian murders in the 1920s, shedding light on a dark chapter in American history. Boasting a stellar cast led by Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, this epic clocks in at three and a half hours, providing a thought-provoking exploration of themes like greed, oppression, and justice.
Adapted from David Grann's book, Killers of the Flower Moon immerses us in a world where the Osage Indians in Oklahoma unexpectedly became the wealthiest per capita due to the discovery of oil beneath their reservation. They lived in grandeur, residing in opulent mansions with chandeliers and surrounded by household staff. The film introduces us to the character of Ernest Burkhart, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, a war veteran returning to live with his uncle, William Hale, portrayed by Robert De Niro.
Hale, a cattle rancher with a facade of charm and congeniality, conceals a sinister and insatiable greed. Ernest, in contrast, appears easily manipulated, serving as the perfect pawn in Hale's ambitions. His mission is to court Mollie, a full-blood Osage woman with valuable oil headrights, a character brought to life with magnetic enigma by Lily Gladstone. Despite Mollie's apparent wisdom, she falls under the spell of Ernest's charms and becomes entangled in a twisted love story that leaves the audience with lingering questions.
Killers of the Flower Moon grapples with pacing issues and moments where further context might have been enlightening. However, the film takes advantage of its extended runtime to construct a vivid world that captures the era's opulence and underlying tension. It's not just a story about greed and murder but also a period piece that immerses us in the 1920s, highlighting the stark contrast between wealth and suffering.
One aspect that leaves room for improvement is the depth of context. It would have been informative to understand why the Osage Indians were so accommodating to the white settlers during this time. The complex love story at the film's core, while rooted in reality, might benefit from more elaboration to deeply resonate with the audience.
Killers of the Flower Moon is not a typical thriller; it lacks the suspense of a classic whodunit because the audience knows the identity of the murderers from the beginning. De Niro's portrayal of malevolence lurking in plain sight is menacingly charismatic, and DiCaprio captures Ernest's internal conflict, guilt, and desperation. Lily Gladstone's performance is captivating and enigmatic, mirroring the complexity of her character.
Nevertheless, the film falls short of fully exploring the character of Mollie, a pivotal figure in Osage Indian history. It's a missed opportunity to tell her story more profoundly. Scorsese's cinematic approach is more focused on character and incidents rather than adhering to a conventional narrative structure, which may not cater to everyone's taste.
Killers of the Flower Moon illuminates a forgotten tragedy of American history, exploring themes of oppression, vengeance, and resistance. The film portrays the devastating consequences of greed and prejudice, with a focus on the Osage people's struggle to manage their newfound wealth while enduring discrimination.
Scorsese's visual storytelling is exceptional, capturing the beauty of the American plains and presenting scenes that resemble paintings. The director's choice to prioritize the antagonists over the victims of the crimes may leave some viewers desiring more depth and emotional connection to the core of the story.
Killers of the Flower Moon offers a compelling examination of a tragic chapter in American history. It provides a glimpse into a world of grandeur and suffering, where greed knows no boundaries. With its remarkable cast and a visual approach that showcases the beauty of the era, the film delivers a unique cinematic experience.
While it grapples with pacing issues and a lack of depth in some areas, Killers of the Flower Moon succeeds in shedding light on a forgotten tragedy. It's a story that needs to be told, reminding us of the dark consequences of prejudice, greed, and the quest for justice. This film may not be for everyone, but it is a thought-provoking and visually stunning piece of cinema that deserves your attention.
Killer of the Flower Moon was released in NZ cinemas on October 19, 2023