Unveiling the Haunting Secrets: The Untold Truth behind Killers of the Flower Moon

Is Killers of the Flower Moon a true story? This highly anticipated film of 2023, directed by Martin Scorsese, delves into the haunting events of the 1920s in America. Set in the town of Fairfax, it explores the chilling murders of the Osage Nation people, making it a historical drama worth watching.

At a running time of 3 hours and 26 minutes, it is logical that the movie is filled with intricate historical facts and intense dramatic scenes.

However, the question arises - how much of it is based on actual events? Here is everything you should be aware of regarding the true tale behind Killers of the Flower Moon.

Is Killers of the Flower Moon a true story?

Indeed, Killers of the Flower Moon is an authentic account. The movie revolves around the actual killings of individuals belonging to the Osage Nation during the 1920s, and features genuine figures like Mollie Burkhart.

The Osage Nation, originally situated in the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, faced the consequences of the U.S. Government's forced relocation of Native Americans. By the 19th century, the Osage had established a reservation through legal land purchases. As a result, the existing system of allocating Native land to white settlers encountered greater obstacles,

In 1906, land Headrights were restricted to inheritance, rather than being available for purchase or sale. However, when oil gained significance in the 1920s, this restriction complicated matters greatly. As certain tribes began drilling into their land, vast sums of money flowed in. Native American individuals became wealthier, possessing luxurious jewels, clothing, and cars – a surprising image in American history.

In 1921, a significant turning point occurred. Anna Brown and Charles Whitehorn – two individuals featured in Killers of the Flower Moon – were both murdered within a short period of time, under similar circumstances. These continued killings resulted in what became known as the "Reign of Terror," ultimately claiming the lives of 24 individuals. Of these victims, 22 were Native American, while the others were recognized as allies to the community.

The true life of Mollie Burkhart

Killers of the Flower Moon, similar to its source material, centers around the character of Mollie Burkhart, portrayed by Lily Gladstone. In both the film and the original book, Mollie tragically loses her three sisters and mother under suspicious circumstances. While her sisters are confirmed to have been murdered, doctors attribute her mother's death to "peculiar wasting illnesses." Without a proper inquiry into these deaths, Mollie resorts to hiring a private investigator in her quest for answers.

In the film, viewers witness the tragic demise of Rita Smith, her husband Bill, and their servant Nettie Brookshire in a devastating explosion at their home in Fairfax. This incident prompted the Osage Tribal Council to seek assistance from the Department of Justice. It was later revealed that Mollie's husband, Ernest Burkhart, a white man, along with his brother Bryan and their uncle William Hale, were all connected to the conspiracy to murder Mollie's family.

The FBI conducted a real-life investigation, led by J. Edgar Hoover's newly formed team in 1925. The legal trial took place in 1926, resulting in William Hale being sentenced to 18 years in a federal prison in Kansas. Similar to the ending depicted in the film's radio play, both William and Ernest were able to secure an early release by means of bribery. During the trial, Mollie divorced Ernest and passed away in 1937. Notably, the film did not explore or investigate additional deaths as depicted in the book.

For more information on Killers of the Flower Moon, click here. Additionally, you can discover other upcoming movies listed below:

- Five Nights at Freddy’s

- Dune: Part Two

- The Marvels

- Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

- Wonka