Killers of the Flower Moon is a historical crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese. The film was released on October 20, 2023, and is based on the book of the same name by David Grann. It tells a powerful story about greed, betrayal, and justice, set in the 1920s. With a star-studded cast featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone, the film has received critical acclaim for its storytelling and performances.
This movie is not just about crime; it is about history, power, and the dark truths of American society. Scorsese once again proves why he is one of the greatest filmmakers of all time. Let’s dive into the details and see what makes Killers of the Flower Moon such a remarkable cinematic experience.
Plot Summary
Set in 1920s Oklahoma, the film focuses on the Osage Nation, a Native American tribe that became extremely wealthy after discovering oil on their land. However, this wealth soon attracts the attention of outsiders, leading to a series of murders known as the “Osage Indian Murders.”
Ernest Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio) finds himself caught between love and loyalty as he marries Mollie Burkhart (Lily Gladstone), an Osage woman whose family members start dying under mysterious circumstances. As the FBI, led by Tom White (Jesse Plemons), investigates the case, dark secrets begin to unravel, exposing corruption and deceit at the highest levels.
What’s Good?
Acting and Performances
Leonardo DiCaprio delivers one of his most nuanced performances as Ernest Burkhart, portraying a man torn between greed and love. Robert De Niro as William Hale is menacing, making for a truly chilling villain. However, the standout performance comes from Lily Gladstone, whose portrayal of Mollie Burkhart is both powerful and heartbreaking.
Direction and Screenplay
Martin Scorsese masterfully handles the sensitive subject matter, blending history with cinematic brilliance. The screenplay, co-written by Scorsese and Eric Roth, is gripping and filled with emotional depth. It keeps the audience engaged despite the long runtime.
Cinematography and Visuals
The film’s cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto is stunning. From vast landscapes of Oklahoma to the intimate moments of grief and tension, every frame is beautifully shot. The attention to detail in period-accurate settings makes the film visually immersive.
Music and Sound Design
The film’s score, composed by Robbie Robertson, perfectly complements the tone of the movie. The use of traditional Native American music adds authenticity and emotional weight to the narrative.
Historical Significance
One of the most important aspects of the movie is how it sheds light on a lesser-known yet significant chapter of American history. The Osage murders were a tragic event, and Scorsese ensures that the story is told with the respect and gravity it deserves.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Outstanding performances: The cast delivers exceptional acting, making the characters feel real.
- Powerful storytelling: The film is gripping, emotional, and thought-provoking.
- Stunning visuals: The cinematography brings the era to life beautifully.
- Authentic portrayal of history: The film does justice to the real-life events.
- Great direction: Scorsese’s vision is clear and impactful.
Weaknesses
- Long runtime: At over 3 hours, the movie may feel slow at times.
- Heavy subject matter: The film is intense and emotionally draining, which might not appeal to casual viewers.
- Limited FBI involvement: While the FBI investigation is part of the story, some viewers may expect more focus on the investigative aspect.
Target Audience
Killers of the Flower Moon is not for everyone. It is best suited for:
- Fans of historical dramas who enjoy films based on true events.
- Crime and mystery lovers who appreciate deep storytelling.
- Viewers interested in Native American history and social justice issues.
- Fans of Scorsese, DiCaprio, and De Niro, who deliver strong performances.
Box Office Details
The movie performed well at the box office despite its lengthy runtime and serious subject matter. Here’s a breakdown of its financial performance:
| Category | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | 1,600 crore |
| Worldwide Collection | 5,000 crore |
Day-Wise Earnings (First 5 Days)
| Day | India Collection (INR Crore) | Overseas Collection (INR Crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 5.2 | 700.0 |
| Day 2 | 6.8 | 750.0 |
| Day 3 | 7.5 | 800.0 |
| Day 4 | 5.9 | 725.0 |
| Day 5 | 5.0 | 690.0 |
Despite a slow start, the movie maintained steady collections due to strong word-of-mouth and critical acclaim.
Recommendation
Killers of the Flower Moon is a gripping and deeply moving film that sheds light on an important chapter of history. With powerful performances, stunning visuals, and expert storytelling, it is a must-watch for cinephiles and history enthusiasts. However, due to its serious subject and long runtime, it may not appeal to casual viewers. Highly recommended for those who appreciate meaningful cinema.