Revolutionizing Native American Representation: Scorsese's Killers Of The Flower Moon Strikes a Powerful Cultural Chord

Summary

The creators of Killers of the Flower Moon strived for a more accurate and respectful portrayal of Native Americans, acknowledging the problematic way Hollywood has historically depicted indigenous people. The film's objective is to shed light on the compelling and overlooked narrative of the Osage tribe.

Shifting the spotlight onto Mollie, portrayed by Lily Gladstone, a Native American woman belonging to the Osage tribe, the film successfully steers away from being a procedural dominated by white male characters. Instead, it becomes a medium for exploring the intricate traumas endured by indigenous individuals in the United States.

Taking on the role of breaking stereotypes prevalent in Hollywood, the film's objective is to grant indigenous characters authority and complexity, rather than confining them to superficial supporting roles.

Leonardo DiCaprio, the star of Killers of the Flower Moon, discusses how the film made efforts to improve its portrayal of Native Americans. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the movie centers around a series of mysterious murders within the Osage tribe, which prompts an FBI investigation and the involvement of J. Edgar Hoover. Alongside DiCaprio, the cast includes Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, Jesse Plemons, Tantoo Cardinal, and John Lithgow.

As the release of Killers of the Flower Moon draws near, DiCaprio reveals that the initial script drafts did not sufficiently capture the essence of the Osage story. Prior to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, DiCaprio shared with THR that he and the production team had lacked a deep understanding of the Native American narrative. However, upon recognizing the significance of this powerful story, the film swiftly pivoted to create a more authentic representation, challenging Hollywood's questionable portrayal of Native Americans. Read DiCaprio's complete quote below:

It is a forgotten chapter in American history that continues to cause pain and resentment. The film industry in Hollywood has a troubling track record when it comes to portraying Native American people. It is imperative that we take action. We are approaching a critical moment where we must confront our past. By presenting these stories in an honest and genuine manner, we can facilitate a process of healing.

The Osage story had not captured our attention until a powerful scene between Mollie and Ernest left a lasting impact during the reading. Intrigued, we delved deeper into their relationship, which proved to be incredibly twisted and extraordinary, unlike anything we had encountered before.

Killers Of The Flower Moon’s Script Pivot Was Needed

Mollie, a woman in the Osage tribe, is married to Ernest Burkhart, a white man suspected of the Osage murders. Played by Native American actor Gladstone, Mollie's relationship with Ernest adds depth and authenticity to the Native American narrative in Killers of the Flower Moon. By focusing on Mollie, the film avoids being a typical investigation led by a white protagonist and instead delves into the complex traumas experienced by indigenous people in the United States.

Gladstone, who has spoken about the misrepresentation of indigenous people in Hollywood, recently criticized the stereotypical portrayal of Native Americans in Yellowstone as "deplorable." She highlighted the limited opportunities for Native American actors, who often only get to play problematic background characters like those seen in Yellowstone.

Killers of the Flower Moon seems to be endeavoring to change this narrative. Rather than marginalizing the indigenous characters, who are the victims of the murders, and reducing them to mere expositional figures in a larger story, Scorsese prioritizes Mollie's story. It is our hope that Killers of the Flower Moon can live up to DiCaprio's statement and serve as an initial endeavor in rectifying the countless past Hollywood films and shows that have perpetuated injustices.