Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, Jesse Plemons, Tantoo Cardinal, John Lithgow and Brendan Fraser.
Director: Martin Scorsese
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One Liner Review: I am confused whether to celebrate this film or heal the grief i hold after watching this epic.
Review: In the dawn of the 20th century, the Osage Nation, having been forced to relocate to what many considered barren lands in Oklahoma, unexpectedly struck black gold. This unexpected discovery of oil transformed them almost instantaneously into one of the wealthiest communities per capita in the U.S. Yet, their newfound wealth drew the envious eyes of those who once saw the land as worthless. This envy ignited a land dispute and brought William King Hale, portrayed compellingly by Robert De Niro, into the limelight. Though Hale was merely a cattle baron, he became a significant figure in the Osage region, adeptly navigating political waters to curry favor with both the Osage and the settlers, all while scheming for his gain. De Niro’s portrayal of Hale, a man who proudly bore the title “King,” is haunting. He embodies a man who, with chilling charm, can orchestrate treachery while maintaining unwavering eye contact.
Upon returning from the war, Ernest, carrying the weight of battles past, finds himself in his hometown once more. His uncle Hale, seeing Ernest’s malleable nature, believes he can sway him with ease. Seeking a fresh start, Ernest lands a job as a driver for the Osage, a wealthy community. It’s here that destiny introduces him to Mollie. The two quickly fall in love and marry. But their happiness is short-lived. Dark clouds gather as members of the Osage, including Mollie’s sister Anna (who’s wed to Ernest’s brother), are tragically killed. The peaceful community is shaken by these consecutive events, and a cloud of suspicion hangs heavy. As if these challenges weren’t enough, Mollie faces personal health struggles, further intensifying her vulnerability. Whispers and fears begin to circulate, suggesting that the threat may not be from outsiders, but could be lurking within their close-knit circle, perhaps even emanating from someone as close as Mollie’s own husband.
In the opening moments of Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Leonardo DiCaprio’s character, Ernest Burkhardt, asks a simple question about wolves in a children’s book. But this seemingly innocent question lays the groundwork for a tale where the real ‘wolves’ are not hidden. They roam openly, revealing a dark side of history where cruelty and evil are all too visible. The true horror in “Killers of the Flower Moon” is that the wolves, while clear in sight, remain unchecked in their predatory ways.
In the screenplay written by Eric Roth & Scorsese, the main characters are Ernest, Mollie, and Hale. Everything revolves around them. But there are many other characters in this drama too. Jesse Plemons is a BOI agent who looks into the Osage murders. John Lithgow and Brendan Fraser play lawyers who don’t agree on things. Mollie’s mother is played by Tantoo Cardinal. The story also has musicians acting in it, like Charlie Musselwhite, Sturgill Simpson, Pete Yorn, Jack White, and Jason Isbell. Jason Isbell’s role is especially important; he plays Bill Smith, Ernest’s brother-in-law, who might cause some problems.
Scorsese and Roth took a book about how the F.B.I. started, which focused on the Osage murders, and changed its angle. Instead, they focused more on Mollie and Ernest’s personal stories. Through their eyes, the movie shows not only unfairness but also how such unfairness helped some people get rich in America. The movie talks about how some people were easily hurt or mistreated for a long time. It mentions events like the Tulsa Massacre and actions of groups like the KKK. These aren’t just random details. They show a bigger story of how some people were treated badly just because others thought it was okay and easy to do.
The Films’s Long Duration
It’s not a surprise to me that there will be those who might tease or jest about the extended duration of Scorsese’s most lengthy cinematic piece. However, one should take a step back and genuinely consider the vastness and depth of this multi-year narrative. We’re not just talking about a simple story but, we’re diving deep into a rich tapestry that spans several years, intricately filled with details and nuances. Thelma Schoonmaker, with her unmatched editing skills, meticulously shapes this narrative, ensuring that every moment, every scene drives the plot forward. It’s a ride of a journey that takes us deep into the heart of our world’s tumultuous and violent past, yet she ensures that we never lose our way or the essence of this multi-faceted tale. Such a comprehensive and intricate story requires time to unfold, to be appreciated, and to be understood. Therefore, when I say that this film rightfully deserves its 3 and a half hour runtime, it’s an acknowledgment of the craft, dedication, and vision that went into its creation.
Performances
To assert that this is Leonardo DiCaprio’s finest performance to date would not be an exaggeration. While we’ve seen DiCaprio don the role of the naive or uninformed before, this particular portrayal stands apart in its profound simplicity. With every blink and repeat of his uncle’s words, you can almost visualize the wheels turning in his mind, laboriously trying to uncode the weight and implication of the words thrown his way. His expression – a mix of confusion and concentration, resembling a bulldog cheated out of a treat – is both heart-rending and humorously touching. A significant chunk of the movie’s lengthy 206-minute duration dwells on Ernest’s innocent attempts to comprehend the world and the expectations set for him. This masterful performance by DiCaprio, which swings between tragicomedy tones, showcases a shift from the typically sharp and quick-witted roles we’ve come to expect from him, proving yet again his versatility and unmatchable talent.
When you witness De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio on screen together, you know magic is bound to happen. These two acting powerhouses elevate the narrative, painting a poignant picture of a strained relationship. Yet, it’s Gladstone who truly captivates the audience. As Mollie, she becomes the emotional anchor in a world dominated by cold-hearted or, at best, oblivious characters. The film’s palpable heartbeat, reflected through a unique mix of bluegrass and Native American tunes, falters when Mollie’s health deteriorates in the later part of the movie. This shift subtly impacts the film’s rhythm. Gladstone impeccably captures the essence of her character, steering clear of over-dramatization and staying rooted in the reality of each scene. Her commitment to authenticity, rather than becoming a mere representation of all Indigenous victims, is commendable. Indeed, her portrayal demands Oscar consideration. All cast members remain faithful to portraying the genuine emotions of the narrative, steering clear of merely reenacting history. Mollie Burkhardt’s story wasn’t just about bringing an injustice to light or the eventual formation of the FBI. At its core, it was a tale of a woman desiring the simple joys of life and love, something unjustly denied to many.
Cinematography And Music
The cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto and music of the film (by Robbie Robertson) are nothing short of breathtaking. From the very first frame, the visuals captivate you, drawing you into the film’s world. But it’s not just the visuals; the soundtrack complements the cinematography perfectly. The rhythms resonate with the story’s heartbeat, creating an immersive experience that envelopes the viewer. Together, the stunning visuals and hauntingly beautiful music transport you, making you feel as if you’re not just watching the film, but living inside it.
Last Words
Just as you’re getting comfortable, thinking you know where the movie is headed with its usual crime investigation twists, Scorsese surprises you. He adds an unexpected scene that jolts you out of your comfort zone. In this scene, Scorsese himself makes a short appearance, driving home a powerful message: it’s not just the land and riches that were taken from the Native American people, but their rich culture and stories too. And yes, that includes the very story you’re watching. Even before you could process and react, Scorsese successfully leaves you with open wounds and let you be in grief of whatever you just witnessed.
-by Jeet Pasad.