PR in the Philippines

(SeaPRwire) –   Martin Scorsese has a penchant for bringing real-life stories to the screen that often appear unbelievable when adapted. While The Wolf of Wall Street began as a gonzo financial thriller, Scorsese transformed it into a spectacle filled with fourth wall breaks, physical comedy, and financial lessons. Similarly, the glitzy and already unbelievable life of Howard Hughes was dramatized in The Aviator, serving as a haunting portrait of the enigmatic tycoon.

It is no coincidence that Leonardo DiCaprio starred in both films; together, Scorsese and DiCaprio turn realistic figures into complex characters that feel larger than life. In 2023, Scorsese further leaned into his strengths with Killers of the Flower Moon, a retelling of a frequently overlooked historical event that highlights the story while acknowledging the significance of his role as the storyteller.

Spanning nearly three and a half hours, Scorsese recounts the history of the Osage Nation, the Indigenous tribe that discovered oil on their Oklahoma reservation. Although tribe members became wealthy overnight, racist policies often led to the appointment of white “guardians” to manage their finances.

Enter Ernest Burkhart (DiCaprio), who, after returning from military service, settles with his uncle, King Hale (Robert DeNiro). Hale poses as a supporter of the Osage people, but appearances are deceiving: he is actually orchestrating a series of crimes to steal their wealth. Despite falling in love with Mollie Kyle (Lily Gladstone), Ernest participates in escalating crimes that eventually tear Mollie’s family apart.

While lengthy, the film utilizes every minute to immerse the viewer, particularly in its epilogue, which exposes the true nature of Killers of the Flower Moon: a narrative belonging to the Osage people but told by white filmmakers. Thanks to an upcoming Criterion 4K release, viewers can experience this saga with unprecedented detail.

How Was Killers Of The Flower Moon Received Upon Release?

As a significant addition to Scorsese’s filmography, the movie faced high expectations and exceeded most of them. Although many reviews noted the long runtime, critics generally agreed that the time was justified to tell the complex story with the necessary gravity and nuance.

The self-referential conclusion also garnered praise, with The New Yorker’s Richard Brody stating, “Scorsese’s control of form and tone, and the bold yet subtle way that he marshals incident, signal that he is intent not merely on narrating history but on troubling the conscience of his (doubtless largely white) audience.”

The acting received immense acclaim, with Gladstone emerging as a top contender during awards season. Although the film did not win at the Oscars that year, it has established itself as one of the most ambitious and successful projects in Scorsese’s career.

Why Is Killers Of The Flower Moon Important To See Now?

The reason is straightforward. Killers of the Flower Moon remains essential viewing because its narrative is vital knowledge. Based on David Grann’s book of the same name, which exposed the Osage murders, the film takes the story a step further by depicting these atrocities in a memorable and impactful way.

Furthermore, the film is dense with meaning, making it infinitely rewatchable. Even if you saw it in theaters in 2023, a viewing now will likely reveal new insights. It is a film that everyone should watch at least once in their lifetime, if only to understand this historical tragedy.

As a period piece, the movie will remain just as relevant 50 years from now. It serves as a timeless cautionary tale regarding the consequences of greed obstructing human rights and basic empathy.

What New Features Does The 4K Release Of Killers Of The Flower Moon Include?

Consistent with typical Criterion 4K releases, the Killers of the Flower Moon set includes a 4K UHD disc with the film’s new remaster, as well as two Blu-rays: one for the movie and another dedicated to special features. The release is packed with bonus content, such as:

• A new documentary featuring Scorsese, actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone, author David Grann, Osage Nation Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear, Osage cultural consultant John Williams, editor Thelma Schoonmaker, and other cast and crew members
• “WahZhaZhe”: A Song for the Osage, a new documentary exploring the film’s final shot, with Scorsese, Chief Standing Bear, and six Osage Nation members
• An excerpted archival interview with director of photography Rodrigo Prieto
• Excerpts from the 2023 Cannes Film Festival press conference with Scorsese, DiCaprio, Gladstone, Chief Standing Bear, and Robert De Niro
• Essays by critic Vinson Cunningham and film programmer Adam Piron