Entertainment Blog #187 | Killers of the Flower Moon [2023] - A Tragic Story of American History...

In the past, marriage was like a transaction. For example, a girl and a boy from rich families get married so the money flow of those families won't break down for poor families. And these days, mostly, when someone seeks a partner, they tend to check the family background to know whether they have wealth. And this movie is like at the Pro Level of this method.

Martin Scorsese's film "Killers of the Flower Moon" explores into the dark elements of greed, exploitation, and violence against the historical context of the oil boom in 1920s Oklahoma. The film, which will be released in 2023, explores into themes of power, conspiracy, and the tense relationship between White settlers and the Osage Nation, shedding light on historical injustices and the struggle for Indigenous rights. The film's production involved extensive research and meticulous attention to detail, capturing the essence of a haunting era in American history and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone. At the 76th Cannes Film Festival, the film received critical acclaim for its narrative depth, character portrayals, and thematic resonance.

"Killers of the Flower Moon" takes place in the background of the Osage Nation in 1920s Oklahoma, revealing a chilling story of greed, exploitation, and a string of murders that plagued the community after the discovery of oil on tribal lands. The Osage people, who have become wealthy as a result of the oil wealth, are subjected to relentless violence and murders as opportunistic White settlers seek to manipulate and control their fortunes. Despite their wealth, the tribal members are deemed "worthless" by law, forcing court-appointed guardians to manage their financial affairs.

Ernest Burkhart returns from World War I and lives on a Native American ranch with his uncle William Hale and brother Byron. Hale, posing as a benefactor to the Osage community, plots to eliminate wealthy Osage members by staging murders in order to gain more headrights. The corrupt local authorities turn a blind eye as a conspiracy emerges and deaths increase leaving the Osage tribe vulnerable to manipulation and violence. The film carefully weaves together a web of corruption, greed, and exploitation within the context of the Osage murders, unfolding a tragic chapter in American history through twists and turns.

As private investigator William J. Burns attempts to uncover the truth, he is met with threats and physical assault. Recognizing that danger is approaching, the Osage community attempts to seek justice and protection by campaigning the government. The plot expands as the Bureau of Investigation, led by Agent Thomas Bruce White Sr., uncovers the conspiracy and arrests those responsible for the murders, exposing the sinister forces at work and the dangerous manipulation of power.

"Killers of the Flower Moon" received widespread acclaim. Critics praised the film for its examination of a lesser-known historical event, the ensemble cast's performances, and thematic depth. The story was praised for shedding light on the awful injustices suffered by the Osage Nation following the discovery of oil on their land in the 1920s. Martin Scorsese's direction, as well as the performances of Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone, were praised for their ability to bring depth and genuineness to the characters and historical context.

However, some critics criticized the film's lengthy runtime, claiming that it could have been more effective with a more precise editing approach. Despite this criticism, the film received widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative, historical significance, performances, and thematic exploration, as well as for its contribution to shedding light on an often misunderstood and tragic period in American history. Despite a few concerns about its length, the critical response was overwhelmingly positive, recognizing the film's artistic achievement and storytelling prowess.

The film succeeds not only in recalling a tragic history, but also in stimulating audiences to consider broader themes such as greed, systemic injustice, and the exploitation of marginalized communities. Despite its lengthy running time, the film's compelling storytelling, historical significance, and powerful performances elevate it to the status of significant and stimulating cinematic work. Overall, "Killers of the Flower Moon" demonstrates the power of historical narratives to influence contemporary understanding and societal introspection.