“Killers of the Flower Moon” stands as a captivating film that delves into a harrowing chapter of history, exploring the Osage murders in the early 1920s. The movie, directed by Martin Scorsese and based on David Grann’s book, brings to light a series of chilling events surrounding the Osage people and the birth of the FBI. Dive into this blog post for a comprehensive look at 20 intriguing facts and trivia that offer deeper insights into this cinematic masterpiece.
1. Osage Financial Oversight:
The film illustrates the grim reality of Osage financial management, where most were deemed incapable of handling their own finances, leading to white overseers often siphoning off substantial amounts.
2. DiCaprio’s Script Alteration:
Leonardo DiCaprio’s insistence on rewriting the original script shifted the focus from a detective thriller to a psychologically driven drama, transforming the film’s narrative trajectory.
3. Streamlined Adaptation:
Screenwriter Eric Roth streamlined the narrative from hundreds of individuals involved in the Osage Indian murders, as detailed in the source material, to focus on pivotal characters.
4. De Niro’s Realistic Spanking:
In a memorable scene, Robert De Niro’s character spanks Leonardo DiCaprio with a real wooden paddle at full strength, albeit with protective padding underneath.
5. Scorsese’s Alma Mater:
The radio play scene, a crucial moment in the film, was filmed in Martin Scorsese’s high school auditorium, adding a personal touch to the movie’s production.
6. Scorsese’s On-Screen Appearance:
Scorsese chose to appear on-screen during the radio scene to ensure the conveyance of a nuanced emotional shift, showcasing his responsibility in portraying the Osage murders for entertainment.
7. Temporal Shift in the Radio Scene:
The subtle temporal shift within the radio scene cleverly addresses the modern-day audience by narrating events that occurred after the depicted period, offering a unique perspective.
8. Hoover Connection:
In the film’s third act, DiCaprio’s character faces investigation by the Bureau of Investigation, with J. Edgar Hoover as director, creating an interesting connection to DiCaprio’s previous portrayal of Hoover in Clint Eastwood’s biopic.
9. Osage Financial Injustices:
The courts’ designation of Osage people as incapable of managing finances allowed overseers to exploit and divert considerable amounts of their wealth.
10. DiCaprio’s Role Change:
Originally cast as FBI agent Tom White, DiCaprio requested to portray Ernest Burkhart, altering the film’s direction from a commercial thriller to a nuanced psychological drama.
11. Evolution of the Script:
DiCaprio’s involvement in script revision showcases the commitment to authentic character portrayal and storytelling, elevating the film beyond conventional narratives.
12. Scorsese’s Directorial Choices:
Scorsese’s deliberate inclusion of himself in a pivotal scene emphasizes the ethical responsibility of portraying historical events for contemporary audiences.
13. Contemporary Audience Address:
The film’s temporal nuances engage modern-day viewers by weaving historical events into a narrative that transcends time, creating a deeper connection.
14. The FBI’s Historical Role:
The film sheds light on the FBI’s early days, drawing parallels to DiCaprio’s prior portrayal of J. Edgar Hoover, offering an interconnected cinematic narrative.
15. Osage Financial Exploitation:
The film vividly portrays the exploitation faced by Osage people, especially concerning their finances and the manipulation by appointed overseers.
16. Trivia on Filming Locations:
Scenes shot in Scorsese’s high school auditorium and various Oklahoma locales contribute to the film’s authenticity and personal touch.
17. DiCaprio’s Impact on Narrative:
DiCaprio’s influence in altering the script underlines the dedication to presenting a story that delves into psychological complexities rather than traditional detective tropes.
18. Scorsese’s Ethical Cinematic Choices:
Scorsese’s conscious decisions within the film, including his on-screen appearance, reflect ethical considerations in depicting historical tragedies.
19. Audience Engagement Through Time:
The film’s temporal shifts engage the audience, inviting reflection on historical events’ contemporary implications and relevance.
20. Continuity in DiCaprio’s Roles:
DiCaprio’s recurring portrayals of historical figures, especially his connection to Hoover in this film, showcase an intriguing continuity within his cinematic career.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” not only serves as a compelling cinematic experience but also opens doors to explore historical nuances, ethical considerations in storytelling, and the evolution of narratives in contemporary cinema. These 20 facts and trivia offer a deeper appreciation for the film’s intricacies and its significance in portraying a pivotal moment in American history.
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Last modified: January 7, 2024
