Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) Movie Review
In Martin Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon," Ernest Burkhardt, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, casually flips through a children's book, asking if you can spot the wolves. However, unlike the hidden wolves in the picture, the evil in the film isn't concealed either. The movie, adapted from David Grann's non-fiction book, boldly exposes the disturbing reality of wickedness operating openly.
Scorsese skillfully delves into a historical drama, depicting a chilling narrative of individuals who view murder as routine, ordering killings as casually as getting a drink at the bar. The film doesn't shy away from unveiling the vile behavior that lurks in plain sight. It's not just the story of a tragic couple; it's a reflection of the broader nature of evil. In "Killers of the Flower Moon," the characters, much like wolves, don't ponder the morality of their actions as long as they lead to personal gain.
Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) Movie Review
In the early 1900s, the Osage Nation, forced off their land to what seemed like a barren Oklahoma, struck gold when they discovered oil beneath their feet. This unexpected wealth made them the richest per capita in the nation almost overnight. However, those who took over their land wanted a piece of the oil fortune, sparking a fierce battle for control. Enter William King Hale (played by Robert De Niro), a cattle baron who became a powerful figure in the Osage region.
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Hale identifies his nephew, Ernest, as someone easily influenced. Ernest, fresh from the war, becomes a driver for wealthy Osage individuals, leading him to Mollie (played by Lily Gladstone). The two marry, but tragedy strikes as members of the Osage population, including Mollie's family, are murdered one by one. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a region tainted by evil, possibly even within Mollie's own husband.
The narrative revolves around Ernest, Mollie, and Hale, but the script weaves a rich tapestry with numerous memorable characters, such as Jesse Plemons as a BOI agent leading the investigation, John Lithgow and Brendan Fraser as opposing attorneys, Tantoo Cardinal as Mollie's mother, and a captivating lineup of musicians turned actors like Charlie Musselwhite, Sturgill Simpson, Pete Yorn, Jack White, and Jason Isbell in a compelling role as Bill Smith, Ernest's potentially troublesome brother-in-law.
"Killers of the Flower Moon" may not fit the mold of a typical gangster movie, but it aligns perfectly with Martin Scorsese's decades-long exploration of corrupt and violent characters. Yet, there's a sense of maturity in Scorsese's approach, as if he's using this chilling true story to examine how we ended up where we are today, a century later. The film prompts us to ask: How did we let violence and bloodshed become intertwined with the foundation of our nation?
In adapting a book primarily about the FBI's formation through the Osage murder investigation, Scorsese and screenwriter Eric Roth shift the focus to a more personal perspective, following the characters Mollie and Ernest. Through their journey, the film not only exposes injustice but also reveals its deep connection to the creation of wealth and inequality in America. It serves as a commentary on how casual violence against marginalized people has haunted our history for a hundred years. The mentions of the Tulsa Massacre and the KKK are not incidental; they are part of a larger pattern of oppression by those who find it too easy to dominate others.
Scorsese's vision is brought to life by a stellar team of collaborators. Rodrigo Prieto's cinematography captures the vastness of the Osage Nation and intensifies the close-up moments. Robbie Robertson's pulsating score becomes a character in itself, providing the film with a heartbeat that adds tension to its considerable runtime. Thelma Schoonmaker, a key figure in Scorsese's rhythmic directing style, shines in her role as the editor, skillfully guiding us through the multi-year saga. Despite jokes about the film's runtime, Schoonmaker's expertise ensures that we navigate through our nation's violent history without losing track of this intricate story.
When it comes to performances in "Killers of the Flower Moon," there's a special power in witnessing Martin Scorsese's longtime collaborators, De Niro and DiCaprio, sharing the screen again since "This Boy's Life." They amplify each other's acting in a story centered around an abusive father. However, the real revelation for many is Lily Gladstone, known for her standout role in "Certain Women." She skillfully avoids melodrama, anchoring her character in genuine moments rather than representing all Indigenous victims. While the film could have veered into broader political commentary, the performances, especially Gladstone's, keep it focused on the characters' truth. The entire ensemble grasps this, portraying the reality of the situation rather than turning it into a history lesson. Mollie Burkhardt, unaware that her story would shape the FBI or expose injustice a century later, simply sought survival and love, basic human rights stolen from many.
In the end, "Killers of the Flower Moon" is like putting together a puzzle—each creative piece contributes to the overall picture. Once assembled, it becomes sadly evident to see the wolves. Now, the question lingers: What actions do we take when we uncover them?