Legendary director Martin Scorsese shared fascinating details about making his latest opus, the Western drama ‘Killers of the Flower Moon.’
Scorsese gave rare insights into collaborating with lead actor Leonardo DiCaprio, accurately portraying the Osage Nation, and crafting his first Western.
Adapting the Acclaimed Book to the Big Screen
Scorsese first encountered the project as a book proposal while filming ‘The Irishman’ and was drawn to its examination of the Osage murders and oil fortunes in 1920s Oklahoma.
He felt ready to film a Western for the first time, carefully avoiding genre cliches. Scorsese was fascinated by Osage history and culture.
Creating DiCaprio’s Character Ernest Burkhart
DiCaprio originally approached Scorsese to play the FBI agent, but they reinvented his role as Osage wife Mollie’s conflicted husband Ernest.
This complex character based on their Oklahoma research allowed them to build the story from the ground up.
Authentic Collaboration with the Osage Nation
Scorsese worked closely with Osage advisors to respectfully depict rituals, traditions, and native language in the film.
He aimed to capture Osage life accurately after learning some activists felt he didn’t understand their culture fully.
Subverting Classic Western Tropes
Scorsese wanted to flip the narrative of Indians as villains and cowboys as heroes prevalent in past Westerns.
The little-known story provides a new perspective on racial struggles and injustices against Native Americans.
Universal Themes of Human Rights
Scorsese was drawn to the slow erosion of Osage rights by supposed friends more than sensational violence.
He hoped to connect with audiences by showing money’s corrosive effects on morality and the need to respect human rights.
Behind the Scenes of Scorsese’s Epic Production
Here are some additional insights Scorsese revealed about the massive three-and-a-half-hour production:
Challenging Conditions Filming on Location
The team shot on location in Oklahoma and endured rough weather conditions capturing outdoor scenes. Scorsese praised the cast and crew’s grit and commitment.
Emphasis on Authentic Language
DiCaprio and other actors learned the Osage language for scenes in native tongues. Scorsese chose to skip subtitles at times to make connections more direct.
Osage Descendants Involved in Production
Numerous Osage tribe members worked on the film or appeared on screen. Their personal connections brought authenticity and passion to the project.
High Expectations for Theatrical Experience
Scorsese staunchly maintains that ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ demands the full theater experience and should not be viewed at home.
Conclusion
Martin Scorsese’s candid insights reveal his dedication to crafting an emotionally resonant epic that shines light on a forgotten American tragedy and injustice. His intimate collaboration with the Osage community and lead actors adds layers of authenticity and humanity to this ambitious passion project.
‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ exemplifies Scorsese’s evolution as a master storyteller, while subverting Western conventions. The film presents a prime opportunity for the legendary director to reach a wide audience with themes of tolerance and human rights that still resonate profoundly today.
