In a momentous achievement for Martin Scorsese’s Western historical epic, “Killers of the Flower Moon” claimed the title of Best Film at the National Board of Review (NBR) Awards. This recognition follows the film’s previous win as the top prize from the New York Film Critics Circle, cementing its position as a frontrunner in the awards season. Scorsese himself was also honored as the Best Director by the NBR, solidifying his mark on the film industry once again.
Portraying the central character of Mollie Burkhart, an Osage woman entangled in the unsettling Reign of Terror in 1920s Oklahoma, Lily Gladstone delivers an exceptional performance that captivates audiences. Her profound portrayal earned her the prestigious title of Best Actress at the NBR Awards. Gladstone masterfully brings to life the complexities and struggles faced by Mollie, drawing viewers into the gripping narrative of love, loss, and resilience.
Alongside Gladstone, the film features renowned actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro in pivotal roles. DiCaprio takes on the character of Ernest Burkhart, a white settler who becomes intertwined with Mollie’s life. De Niro’s presence adds another layer of brilliance to the film, creating an undeniable chemistry that enhances the storytelling. The outstanding performances of these talented actors, combined with Scorsese’s visionary direction, serve as a testament to the film’s exceptional quality.
Scorsese and screenwriter Eric Roth adapted the script for “Killers of the Flower Moon” from David Grann’s bestselling novel of the same name. The gripping true story explores the Reign of Terror that shook the Osage Nation in the 1920s, unearthing corruption, conspiracy, and unimaginable crimes. The film’s ability to translate this gripping narrative onto the silver screen showcases the potency of Grann’s source material and the creative prowess of the filmmaking team.
Rodrigo Prieto’s cinematography in “Killers of the Flower Moon” adds an extraordinary visual dimension to the film. His exceptional work not only captures the grandeur of the Western landscape but also delves into the intricate emotions and nuances of the characters. Prieto’s prowess behind the camera is demonstrated not just in this film but also in his work on the critically acclaimed “Barbie.” The NBR rightly recognized his remarkable contributions by honoring him with the Best Cinematography award.
The NBR’s history of aligning with Oscar nominees and winners adds weight to “Killers of the Flower Moon” as a prominent awards season contender. In previous years, the NBR’s Best Film pick, “Top Gun: Maverick,” propelled the movie’s journey to receiving six Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. With “Killers of the Flower Moon,” NBR has once again identified a film with the potential to captivate the broader Academy and secure its place among the elite.
Beyond “Killers of the Flower Moon,” the NBR awarded several other remarkable films across various categories. Focus Features’ “The Holdovers,” directed by Alexander Payne, triumphed in three categories, including Paul Giamatti as Best Actor and Da’Vine Joy Randolph as Best Supporting Actress. David Hemingson won the accolade for Best Original Screenplay, while Tony McNamara claimed the Best Adapted Screenplay prize for “Poor Things.”
The NBR’s Top Film list comprised an eclectic mix of outstanding movies, including “Flower Moon,” “Holdovers,” “Poor Things,” and “Barbie.” Joining this esteemed collection were “The Boy and the Heron,” “Ferrari,” “The Iron Claw,” “Maestro,” and “Oppenheimer.” The NBR’s diverse selection highlights their commitment to recognizing excellence across genres and subject matters.
In addition to honoring feature films, the NBR also acknowledged achievements in international and documentary cinema. “Anatomy of a Fall” emerged as the Best International Film while “Still: A Michael J Fox Movie” claimed the title of Best Documentary. These films demonstrate the NBR’s dedication to celebrating groundbreaking works from around the world and shedding light on thought-provoking stories beyond mainstream Hollywood.
The National Board of Review will celebrate the winners at its annual awards gala on January 11, 2024, held in the illustrious Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. The event promises to be a grand affair, with esteemed industry professionals, filmmakers, and academics in attendance. The talented Willie Geist will host the ceremony, creating an unforgettable night of recognition and appreciation for the exceptional cinematic accomplishments of the year.
As “Killers of the Flower Moon” basks in the glow of its NBR triumphs, its journey through the awards season gains momentum. Scorsese’s masterful storytelling, Gladstone’s compelling performance, and the film’s poignant exploration of history make it a true triumph in Western cinema. With each accolade, it becomes increasingly evident that “Killers of the Flower Moon” has etched its place in film history as a powerful and unforgettable work of art.
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