Legendary director and champion of cinema Martin Scorsese adapted David Grann’s 2017 non-fiction book Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI, with some significant shifts that have sparked debate amongst a variety of film critics. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone, and Robert De Niro, who all give indelible performances. It is currently playing in theaters and will stream on Apple TV+ later this year. In this episode of The Long Take Review, P.T., Greg, and I enter the discourse about the representation of American history and indigenous peoples, offer our interpretations of the film’s ambiguities, and examine the ethos of our beloved Marty.
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Movie News Check-In: Strike updates and another devastating delay. 2:36
The Short Take: Our general impressions of Killers of the Flower Moon. (Spoiler-free.) 11:53
The Recommendation Algorithm: Who should see this film? What kind of history nerd will enjoy this? (Spoiler-free.) 18:41
SPOILER MODE P.T. and Greg help answer some of my questions about the plot and character motivations, we shout out our favorite performances, unpack the politics surrounding the film, and more. 29:56
The Rhetorical Situation: Martin Scorsese’s ethos. What do we gain from Scorsese being the one who tells this story? What are his limitations? What do we make of the ending of the film? 1:23:49
Oscars Watch Will this film repeat The Irishman’s Oscars performance, with a slew of nominations but no wins? How do we think Lily Gladstone’s decision to campaign in Lead rather than Supporting impacts her and the film’s chances? How does KotFM stack up against Oppenheimer? 1:47:16
Image Credit: LA Times
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Intro and outro music is “Divers,” by Hara Noda. All music licensed through Epidemic Sound.
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Killers of the Flower Moon Review