Killers of the Flower Moon

Movie Review:

Synopsis

"Killers of the Flower Moon" is a historical drama directed by Martin Scorsese, based on David Grann's 2017 book. The movie revolves around the Osage Nation, one of the richest tribes in the pre-depression U.S., whose wealth stemmed from striking a rich vein of oil.

Plot Overview

The central characters are Ernest Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio), a World War I veteran who becomes a driver for the wealthy Osage; Mollie Kyle (Lily Gladstone), an Osage woman he falls in love with; and William K. Hale (Robert De Niro), a wealthy cattle rancher and Ernest's uncle.

Character Analysis

Ernest Burkhart

Ernest is a World War I veteran who becomes a driver for the wealthy Osage, leading him to Mollie. He gets married just before Mollie's family and other members of the Osage population are murdered one after another. Mollie loses a sister to "Wasting Disease," and discovers that she has diabetes herself, making her an easy target for the growing evil in the region.

Mollie Kyle

Mollie is an Osage woman who falls in love with Ernest. She loses a sister to "Wasting Disease," and discovers that she has diabetes herself, making her an easy target for the growing evil in the region.

William K. Hale

William K. Hale is a wealthy cattle rancher and Ernest's uncle. He plays a significant role in the story, providing a contrast to the characters of Ernest and Mollie.

Visual Appeal and Performances

The movie is characterized by its complex narrative structure, with the story of Ernest, Mollie, and Hale forming the core around which everything else orbits. However, the film is populated with dozens of other memorable characters, including a BOI agent who leads the investigation into the Osage murders, conflicting attorneys in the case, and a mother who is Mollie's mother.

Critiques and Controversies

Despite the complexity of the narrative, the movie is a compelling watch. Its visuals, particularly the panoramic sweep of Rodrigo Prieto's cinematography and the exquisite detail of Jacqueline West's costumes, contribute significantly to its appeal. The performances of the cast, especially DiCaprio and Gladstone, bring depth and emotion to their characters, making you feel their turmoil and grief as their family members keep dying. However, the film has been criticized for its jumble of perspectives and its focus on the white characters rather than the Osage characters themselves. Despite these criticisms, the film remains a powerful exploration of violence, injustice, and the long, brutal history of Native American displacement and death.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Killers of the Flower Moon" is a complex, compelling movie that explores the rich history of the Osage Nation and the dark side of American society. It's a film that invites viewers to reflect on the country's past and consider its implications for the future.

Watch Movie Trailer