In a recent press conference, renowned director Martin Scorsese unveiled fascinating insights into his upcoming film, Killers of the Flower Moon, which delves into the dark complexities of the Osage culture, the unforgiving landscape of betrayal, and the raw allure of the American West. The film boasts an all-star cast, with Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro at the forefront, accompanied by a supporting ensemble including Jesse Plemons and Lily Gladstone.
Scorsese shared how the project came to fruition, recounting the moment he was presented with David Grann’s bestselling book, which would serve as the foundation for this gripping tale. The director, known for his mastery of various genres, admitted that he was initially hesitant to explore the Western genre due to the evolution of the American West in the 1940s and 1950s, but something about the story’s resonance drew him in.
The heart of Killers of the Flower Moon lies in the tumultuous history of the Osage Nation, who, after the discovery of oil beneath their land, became the richest people in the world, setting the stage for unspeakable crimes against them. Scorsese’s journey into the Osage culture, driven by a fascination with indigenous people, offers a unique perspective on a historical tragedy that has been largely overlooked.
The director passionately explained that the story’s core theme isn’t merely about identifying the culprits behind the murders, but rather, it delves into the complicity of human nature. As Scorsese put it, “It’s who didn’t do it.” The film aims to shed light on the fact that even those who turned a blind eye were complicit in the horrors that unfolded.
Scorsese’s deep connection to the Osage people was apparent as he recounted his time spent in Oklahoma, meeting Chief Standing Bear and other Osage community members. They welcomed him, sharing their culture, their history, and their stories. The wounds of the past, as Chief Standing Bear noted, are still very much present in the lives of the descendants of those who suffered. The Osage community opened up to Scorsese, taking him through the layers of their heritage and their historical trauma.
One pivotal realization came during these interactions when Scorsese learned about the complex love story of Molly and Ernest, portrayed by Lily Gladstone and Leonardo DiCaprio. Their love, their trust, and the eventual betrayal provided a unique lens through which to tell this gripping tale of crime, intrigue, and heartbreak. It was during this time that DiCaprio suggested he take on the role of Ernest, a character that had yet to be fully realized. This prompted a deeper reworking of the script, allowing the filmmakers to dig into the narrative from the inside out.
Scorsese’s vision for Killers of the Flower Moon is not just to recount a history, but to evoke the emotions and passions of the era, keeping the audience engrossed in the performances and the overarching narrative, without distracting subtitles.
The director concluded by expressing his profound love for cinema, highlighting its unique ability to capture fleeting moments and evoke powerful emotions. Killers of the Flower Moon promises to be a cinematic experience that not only unveils a dark chapter in history but also portrays the deep complexities of love, trust, and betrayal within a world of wealth and treachery. With Scorsese’s unparalleled storytelling and the talents of DiCaprio and De Niro, this film is poised to be a historical epic that will captivate audiences and linger in their minds for years to come.
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Killers of the Flower Moon will premiere in theaters around the world, including IMAX® theatres, on Friday, October 20, 2023. Check out the offers that Apple Studios is offering.
