Killers of the Flower Moon Review: DiCaprio's Unforgettable Ride

In Martin Scorsese's films, the theme of power takes centre stage, exploring its structures, layers, and flow. Rather than focusing on those at the pinnacle of power, Scorsese is intrigued by characters a few steps down the ladder. 

In "Killers of the Flower Moon," adapted from David Grann's nonfiction book, the spotlight is on Ernest Burkhart (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), a seemingly hapless nephew caught up in the machinations of his uncle, cattle rancher William Hale (portrayed by Robert De Niro).

Ernest Burkhart: A Pawn in a Game of Power and Exploitation

Set in the early 1920s in Gray Horse, Osage County, Oklahoma, the unique twist is the concentration of wealth among the Osage Native Americans due to the discovery of oil on their reservation. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of a frenzied gold rush, with money and power intricately linked. Ernest, a fresh army veteran lacking in physical and mental prowess, becomes a pawn in his uncle's scheme to exploit the Osage people, leading to a string of murders.

DiCaprio's portrayal of Ernest is a departure from his usual roles, as he embodies a character of limited intelligence. His performance is marked by blinking, effortful expressions, and a bulldog-like demeanour, stumbling through tragicomic situations. While a significant portion of the film's lengthy runtime is dedicated to Ernest's cluelessness, it adds a unique dimension to DiCaprio's typically sharp-witted roles.

Mollie's Strength Amidst Chaos: Lily Gladstone's Magnetic Performance

One sticking point in the film is Ernest's marriage to Mollie (played by Lily Gladstone), a full-blood Osage woman with a share in the oil deposits. Gladstone's magnetic performance brings depth to Mollie, providing a point of stillness and quiet strength amidst the chaos. The film, however, momentarily falters when Mollie's character is sidelined due to illness, and the momentum flags.

Yet, just as the narrative appears to settle into crime procedural tropes, Scorsese introduces a final audacious scene, emphasizing the pillaging not only of land and resources but also of Native American culture and stories. This unexpected turn challenges familiar expectations and underscores the broader impact of historical injustices.

"Killers of the Flower Moon" is an engrossing and far-reaching cinematic opus that delves into themes of power, exploitation, and cultural loss, with standout performances and Scorsese's signature narrative twists.

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