Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)
Killers of the Flower Moon is a historical drama directed by Martin Scorsese. It is based on the book written by David Grann with the same name. The film portrays the story of the Osage Nation, an indigenous tribe that experienced immense wealth due to oil discoveries on their Oklahoma land in the 1920s. Tragically, this prosperity attracted a series of murders and conspiracies targeting them. Leonardo DiCaprio takes on the role of Ernest Burkhart, a white man who marries Molly (Lily Gladstone), an Osage woman. Unbeknownst to Molly and her family, Ernest gets caught up in a sinister plot aiming to eliminate them for their inheritance. Robert De Niro portrays William Hale, Ernest’s uncle and the mastermind behind this scheme. Alongside him is Jesse Plemons as Tom White, an FBI agent who diligently investigates the case with assistance from some courageous Osage informants.
Killers of the Flower Moon is ambitious, delving into a neglected and profound chapter of American history. With its vast scope and scale, it aims to capture the complexity and tragedy that unfolded. Themes of greed, racism, corruption, justice, and identity intertwine in this exploration, influencing the lives and destinies of both the Osage people and those who oppressed them. The film also sheds light on the emergence of the FBI and its pivotal role in solving the case while also examining how oil shaped both society and the environment.
However, despite its potential and promise, Killers of the Flower Moon fails to deliver a satisfying and coherent narrative that does justice to its subject matter. It lacks focus, direction, and pace, resulting in a sprawling and disjointed story. It attempts to cover too much ground without delving into enough depth or providing sufficient clarity. The film frequently switches between multiple perspetives and timelines, often without clear transitions or connections. Following the characters and understanding their motivations becomes challenging for viewers who may struggle to establish emotional connections. The film’s reliance on exposition and narration rather than visually depicting or dramatising events leads to a lack of tension, suspense, and emotion throughout the narrative. It seems more akin to an educational history lesson rather than an enthralling thriller or a profoundly moving drama.
The film suffers from inconsistent performances and technical shortcomings, which exacerbate its flaws. Both DiCaprio and De Niro are miscast and fail to convince in their respective roles, delivering wooden and exaggerated portrayals devoid of subtlety or charm. DiCaprio’s accent is particularly distracting as it wavers inconsistently, while De Niro’s makeup appears poorly executed and unnatural. On the other hand, Gladstone and Plemons offer more effective and sympathetic performances in their limited screen time, although their characters lack development opportunities to truly shine. The movie is beautiful to watch, but no distinctive or memorable aesthetic or atmosphere is created for the film.
There are some good things about the movie. It effectively portrays the historical and cultural background of the Osage Nation and their struggles. From what I have read elsewhere, it accurately presents relevant facts and details pertaining to the case. Scorsese’s directorial prowess is on full display in a few moments with impressive scenes that capture his unique talent and vision. One such scene is the impactful opening sequence, showcasing the Osage people gracefully dancing in traditional attire amidst towering oil derricks. Equally powerful are moments like when Ernest callously shoots his brother-in-law or when Tom White intensely interrogates Hale in his grand mansion.
Killers of the Flower Moon disappointed and frustrated me, falling short of its potential while failing to fulfill my expectations. The film is excessively lengthy (3 hrs and 26 minutes!), tedious, superficial, clichéd, flashy, and self-indulgent. It’s like a flower that hasn’t fully bloomed.
(In cinemas — check your local movie guide for show times.)