Uncovering the Terrifying Truth Behind Killers of the Flower Moon
What was the biggest change the film Killers of the Flower Moon made from the book?
The screenplay by Eric Roth originally stayed closer to Grann’s narrative, presenting a more chronological mystery that reserved the shocking reveals—specifically, that Ernest, who appeared to be a devoted and protective husband, was actually just one of Hale’s pawns—for later in the story.
However, the writer, along with Scorsese and DiCaprio (who also serves as an executive producer), collectively decided to shift the focus of the film towards the Osage people instead of the FBI. Over 40 roles were portrayed by Osage actors, and Gladstone, hailing from Montana with Blackfeet and Nimíipuu heritage, was cast in a key role. DiCaprio chose to forego the part of Tom White (which was given to Jesse Plemons) in favor of portraying the more intricate character of Ernest Burkhart.
Prior to the script rewrite, DiCaprio expressed to British Vogue, “It just didn’t feel like it got to the heart of it. We weren’t immersed in the Osage story. There was this tiny, small scene between Mollie and Ernest that provoked such emotion in us at the reading, and we just started to penetrate into what that relationship was, because it was so twisted and bizarre and unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before.”
Upon receiving the updated script, Gladstone remarked to Vulture, “It’s not any longer a white-savior story. It’s the Osage people saying, ‘Do something. Here’s money. Come help us.’
Now, Gladstone is on her way to her first Oscars. Keep reading to discover the other artists who are receiving their first Oscar nominations in 2024: