Killers of the Flower Moon official poster

Official promotional poster. Rights belong to the respective rights holders.

Read the film reference Availability and pricing vary by region.
MovieSpoiler-free2-minute brief

Killers of the Flower MoonA movie brief.

2023 / Epic crime drama / Directed by Martin Scorsese

A 1920s Oklahoma tragedy of greed, love, and betrayal.

What is Killers of the Flower Moon about?

In 1920s Oklahoma, oil discovery sparks wealth for the Osage Nation, but a corrupt local leader seeks to steal their wealth. A World War I veteran becomes entangled in a series of murders and deceit.

By Brefly · AI-assisted

Five things to know.

  1. Setup

    The film is based on the 2017 nonfiction book by David Grann, exploring a series of murders of Osage members and relations in the Osage Nation after oil was discovered on tribal land.

  2. World

    The story is set in 1920s Oklahoma, where the Osage Nation retains mineral rights on their reservation, but a corrupt local political boss seeks to exploit their wealth.

  3. Pressure

    The film's protagonist, Ernest Burkhart, is torn between his love for Mollie Kyle, an Osage, and his loyalty to his uncle, William King Hale, who orchestrates the killings.

  4. Craft

    The film features a star-studded cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone, with cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto and a score by Robbie Robertson.

  5. Viewing Note

    The film's long runtime and mature themes may require patience and sensitivity from viewers, but it offers a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Brefly’s take / Interpretation

A thought to take with you.

Martin Scorsese's 'Killers of the Flower Moon' is a haunting exploration of America's dark history, delving into the sinister consequences of greed and the exploitation of Indigenous peoples.

Is it your kind of movie?

Fans of historical dramas and crime epics may appreciate the film's complex characters and themes. Viewers interested in Native American history and culture may find the film's portrayal of the Osage Nation and its struggles to be particularly impactful.

Sources & scope

This AI-assisted brief is based on the linked secondary reference. Facts and interpretation are separated; it does not claim personal viewing or independent expert review.

Source details checked September 7, 2026. Suggest a correction · Our editorial approach