“Killers of the Flower Moon,” directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, hit theaters in the United States on October 20, 2023. This powerful western crime drama stars Hollywood heavyweights Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, alongside the talented Lily Gladstone, telling the shocking true story of the Osage murders in 1920s Oklahoma.
Following its initial theatrical run and considerable critical acclaim, Apple announced a re-release of the film in theaters beginning January 26, 2024. The movie depicts the horrific “Reign of Terror” – a series of calculated murders targeting members of the oil-wealthy Osage Nation, representing one of America’s most disturbing criminal conspiracies.
Based on David Grann’s bestselling book of the same name, this film brings to light a dark chapter in American history that remained largely untold for decades. The story’s powerful combination of historical significance, stellar performances, and Scorsese’s masterful direction has made it one of the most discussed films of recent years.
Killers of the Flower Moon: Release Date, Streaming Info, and More
Killers of the Flower Moon is a highly anticipated epic western crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese. Based on a true story, the film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and newcomer Lily Gladstone. It explores a dark chapter in 1920s Oklahoma, focusing on the Osage Nation and a series of greed-fueled murders.
Release Date
- Theatrical Release: September 27, 2023 (United States)
- The film premiered in theaters first, allowing audiences to experience its cinematic scope on the big screen.
Streaming Information
- After its theatrical run, Killers of the Flower Moon became available for digital purchase and rental on platforms such as Google Play Movies.
- As of now, it is not bundled with major subscription streaming services like Netflix or HBO Max, but availability may vary by region and over time.
- For the latest streaming options, check digital storefronts like Google Play, Apple iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, or your preferred service.
Plot Overview
Set in the 1920s Oklahoma, the story follows Mollie Burkhart (Lily Gladstone), a member of the Osage Nation, as she navigates a harrowing series of murders targeting her people. The film delves into themes of love, betrayal, and justice, highlighting a dark period of American history involving exploitation and systemic violence.
Cast and Crew
- Director: Martin Scorsese
- Main Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone
- Genre: Western, Crime, Drama
- Based on: The non-fiction book Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann
Where to Watch
- In Theaters: Check local listings for current showtimes.
- Digital Purchase/Rental: Available on Google Play Movies and other digital platforms.
- Physical Media: Blu-ray/DVD releases typically follow several months after theatrical release.
Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 27, 2023 (Theatrical) |
| Streaming Availability | Digital purchase/rental on Google Play and others |
| Director | Martin Scorsese |
| Main Cast | Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone |
| Genre | Western, Crime, Drama |
Key Takeaways
- “Killers of the Flower Moon” was released in US theaters on October 20, 2023, with a special re-release beginning January 26, 2024.
- The film features an all-star cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone portraying the true story of the Osage murders.
- Martin Scorsese directed this western crime drama based on David Grann’s bestselling book about the systematic killing of wealthy Osage Nation members in 1920s Oklahoma.
Production and Historical Context
Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” represents a significant cinematic effort to bring a dark chapter of American history to the screen. The film’s production involved extensive research and collaboration with the Osage Nation to accurately portray the systematic murders that occurred in 1920s Oklahoma.
Adaptation from David Grann’s Non-Fiction Book
“Killers of the Flower Moon” is based on David Grann’s bestselling 2017 non-fiction book that uncovered the shocking true story of the Osage murders. Scorsese partnered with screenwriter Eric Roth to adapt this complex historical narrative for the screen.
The adaptation process took several years, with Scorsese committed to honoring the historical accuracy of the events while crafting a compelling crime drama. The film underwent multiple script revisions to ensure it properly represented the Osage perspective.
Paramount Pictures initially backed the project, but Apple TV+ later joined as the production budget reportedly reached $200 million, making it one of Scorsese’s most expensive films.
Cast and Characters Portrayal
The film features an impressive ensemble cast portraying real historical figures:
- Leonardo DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart
- Lily Gladstone as Mollie Burkhart (née Kyle)
- Robert De Niro as William Hale
- Jesse Plemons as Tom White, an FBI agent investigating the murders
- Tantoo Cardinal, Cara Jade Myers, Janae Collins, and Jillian Dion as members of the Osage community
The production team worked closely with Osage consultants to ensure authentic portrayal of the culture. Actors underwent extensive preparation to understand the historical context of their roles.
Many scenes were filmed on location in Oklahoma, including the Osage Nation territories, to maintain authenticity in depicting the 1920s oil boom era.
Historical Significance of the Osage Murders
The film depicts the “Reign of Terror,” a period in the 1920s when dozens of wealthy Osage Native Americans were systematically murdered. After oil was discovered on their reservation, the Osage became some of the richest people in America.
The murders were part of an elaborate conspiracy to gain control of Osage oil headrights and wealth through marriage, manipulation, and murder. These crimes eventually led to one of the FBI’s first major homicide investigations.
The historical significance extends beyond the crimes themselves. The case highlighted the systematic exploitation of Native Americans and exposed deep-rooted racism in American institutions of the early 20th century.
Scorsese’s film serves as a crucial historical document, bringing attention to this overlooked chapter of American history that reveals uncomfortable truths about greed, racism, and justice.
Release and Reception
Martin Scorsese’s epic crime drama “Killers of the Flower Moon” made its way to audiences through a carefully planned release strategy. The film’s journey from production to screens worldwide included prestigious festival premieres, theatrical distribution, and eventual streaming availability.
Official Release Date and Theatrical Run
“Killers of the Flower Moon” premiered in theaters on October 20, 2023, in the United States. Before this wide release, the film debuted at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2023, where it received a 9-minute standing ovation. The theatrical release strategy reflected a commitment to the cinematic experience, appropriate for a film with a substantial 206-minute running time, making it Scorsese’s second-longest film.
The release faced several challenges during production, including delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected filming schedules. Despite these hurdles, the film maintained its quality and scope.
Paramount Pictures handled the theatrical distribution, giving the film a proper cinema run before its eventual streaming debut.
Collaborations and Distribution Partners
The film emerged from a unique partnership between traditional Hollywood and streaming platforms. Apple Studios served as the primary production company, with additional backing from Imperative Entertainment. This collaboration represented a significant investment for Apple, reported to be around $200 million.
Paramount Pictures joined for theatrical distribution, creating a hybrid release model that satisfied both traditional cinema experiences and digital streaming goals. This partnership allowed the film to have substantial theatrical exposure while ensuring a streaming home afterward.
The film’s all-star cast led by Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro was assembled despite industry challenges, including navigating SAG-AFTRA negotiations during the production period.
Critical Acclaim and Film Premieres
“Killers of the Flower Moon” earned widespread praise from critics, maintaining a high rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics particularly celebrated Scorsese’s direction, the cinematography, and the film’s atmospheric portrayal of 1920s Oklahoma.
The film made a significant impact on the festival circuit beyond Cannes, with screenings in major film festivals across Brazil, Europe, and North America. Its premiere appearances generated substantial buzz for its eventual commercial release.
Based on David Grann’s bestselling book, the film adaptation stayed true to the source material while bringing Scorsese’s distinctive vision to the screen. This faithfulness to the historical events contributed to its positive reception among critics and audiences alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many viewers have questions about the release and availability of “Killers of the Flower Moon.” The film’s theatrical release and streaming options are important details for those wanting to watch this critically acclaimed movie.
When is ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ scheduled for theatrical release?
“Killers of the Flower Moon” was released in theaters in the United States on October 20, 2023. The film had its world premiere at the 76th Cannes Film Festival on May 20, 2023, before its wider theatrical release.
The Martin Scorsese-directed film featuring Leonardo DiCaprio received a standard theatrical window before moving to streaming platforms.
Is ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ going to be available on Netflix?
“Killers of the Flower Moon” is not expected to be available on Netflix in the near future. The film was produced in partnership with Apple TV+, which affects its streaming distribution rights.
Apple has different distribution agreements than Netflix, making it unlikely the film will appear on Netflix’s platform soon.
Will ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ be streaming on HBO Max soon?
There are no announcements about “Killers of the Flower Moon” coming to HBO Max. Since the film is an Apple TV+ production, it’s unlikely to appear on HBO Max in the immediate future.
Streaming rights typically follow specific patterns based on production and distribution partnerships.
What is the expected release date of ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ on Amazon Prime?
There is currently no confirmed release date for “Killers of the Flower Moon” on Amazon Prime Video. The film’s primary streaming home will be Apple TV+ due to Apple’s involvement in producing the film.
Amazon Prime may eventually offer the film as a rental or purchase option, but not as part of its subscription service.
Are there plans for ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ to be accessible on Paramount Plus?
No announced plans exist for “Killers of the Flower Moon” to stream on Paramount Plus. The film will primarily stream on Apple TV+ following its theatrical run.
Paramount was not involved in the production or distribution of this film, making its appearance on their streaming service unlikely.
Is ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ based on a true story?
Yes, “Killers of the Flower Moon” is based on a true story. The film adapts David Grann’s best-selling non-fiction book of the same name.
It depicts the real-life serial murders of members of the Osage Nation in 1920s Oklahoma, a period known as the “Reign of Terror.” The story follows the FBI investigation into these murders, which were motivated by oil wealth discovered on Osage land.
