Masterpiece: Flower Moon’s Dark Tale - A review by Robert Chowdhry-John aka Preachaman - @mancuniarebel
“Killers of the Flower Moon” blooms as a haunting bouquet of history, greed, and deception, carefully arranged by the masterful hands of Martin Scorsese. This gripping cinematic masterpiece not only entertains but also leaves a lasting imprint on the viewer’s conscience.
Set in the early 1920s, the film unravels a sinister tale of the Osage Indian Nation and the oil-rich land beneath their feet. Scorsese, a maestro of storytelling, dives deep into the layers of a hidden conspiracy as it intertwines with the darkest facets of human nature. Greed, bigotry, and corruption fester like a poison, revealing the ugly underbelly of America’s past.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro deliver performances that remind us why they are considered two of the finest actors of their generation. Their on-screen chemistry ignites the narrative, making the audience care about the characters’ fates amidst the chaos.
Cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto paints a vivid picture of the era, with sweeping landscapes and intricate period details. Each frame is a work of art, allowing the viewer to step back in time and witness the complexities of an age gone by.
But “Killers of the Flower Moon” is not just a historical drama; it’s a mirror to our present. It asks us to reflect on how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go in addressing the injustices of the past. The film’s title, drawn from the Osage’s “Reign of Terror,” reminds us that the ghosts of history still haunt us today.
In conclusion, “Killers of the Flower Moon” is a tour de force that will keep you on the edge of your seat while forcing you to contemplate the moral and ethical dilemmas that continue to shape our world. Scorsese’s storytelling prowess, coupled with exceptional performances and stunning visuals, make this film an absolute must-see. It is a chilling reminder that sometimes the darkest chapters in history can also be the most compelling on the silver screen.
My only criticism is that while “Killers of the Flower Moon” is a cinematic gem, it leaves me with the nagging feeling that the narrative could have delved even deeper. The film primarily follows the character of Ernest Burkhart, played brilliantly by Leonardo DiCaprio, and while his story is undeniably compelling, there’s a sense that Molly Burkhart, portrayed by Lily Gladstone, deserved more of the spotlight.
Molly’s character offers a unique perspective as a member of the Osage Nation, and her personal journey is equally captivating. It’s not that Ernest’s character is any less intriguing, but the film’s focus on him might have overshadowed the opportunity to explore the Osage perspective and the impact of the crimes on their community in greater depth.
In an era of increased awareness of diverse storytelling and representation, a more balanced narrative could have been a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of the Osage people. While Ernest’s character serves as an essential element in the story, it feels like an opportunity was missed to provide Molly with the prominence she deserved.
Nonetheless, this criticism doesn’t diminish the overall brilliance of “Killers of the Flower Moon.” It remains a thought-provoking and visually stunning cinematic experience that invites audiences to reflect on a dark chapter in history.
Also, the story could of been told within 2 hours.
In the end, it’s a testament to the film’s quality that even with these critiques, it stands as a compelling work of art and storytelling.
