Killers of the Flower Moon

Description

*Killers of the Flower Moon* is a 2023 American crime drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the non-fiction book *Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI* by David Grann. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone, and is set in 1920s Oklahoma, a period marked by a shocking series of murders of the Osage people, who were extremely wealthy due to oil found beneath their land.

### Plot Overview:
The film centers around the Osage Nation, a Native American tribe whose members became incredibly wealthy after oil was discovered on their land in the early 20th century. As the Osage people grew richer, they became targets of a systematic campaign to murder them and steal their oil rights. This led to one of the most horrific instances of racial violence and greed in American history.

DiCaprio plays Ernest Burkhart, a man who is drawn into a sinister conspiracy involving his uncle, William Hale (played by Robert De Niro), a powerful local figure who manipulates and orchestrates the murders of Osage people. Lily Gladstone plays Mollie Burkhart, a member of the Osage Nation and Ernest’s wife, whose family becomes a target of the killings. The story depicts the rise of the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover, who investigates these murders, bringing justice to the victims and exposing a deep-seated conspiracy.

### Themes:
*Killers of the Flower Moon* explores themes of racial injustice, exploitation, and the abuse of power. The film sheds light on the dark history of the Osage murders, which were driven by a toxic combination of racism, greed, and corruption. It also depicts the early efforts of the FBI in solving complex cases.

### Critical Reception:
The film has been highly praised for its direction, acting, and cinematography. Scorsese’s work is celebrated for its powerful portrayal of the brutality and historical significance of the events. DiCaprio and De Niro’s performances have been widely lauded, with Gladstone’s portrayal of Mollie being a standout for many critics. The film has been noted for its somber tone and thoughtful exploration of the racial and social dynamics of the time.

The film also contributes to raising awareness about the Osage murders, which had been largely overlooked in American history until the publication of David Grann’s book in 2017. It shines a light on the systemic exploitation of Native Americans and the lengths to which white settlers went to steal their wealth.

### Background:
The Osage murders are often referred to as the “Reign of Terror,” and took place between 1921 and 1926. During this period, Osage people were killed by poisoning, shooting, and other means, and their wealth was inherited or stolen by white settlers, often through marriage or guardianship. The case remains one of the earliest major investigations undertaken by the FBI.

*Killers of the Flower Moon* provides a powerful historical recounting of these events, blending Scorsese’s cinematic style with a deep, essential look at an often forgotten chapter in American history.