'Killers of the Flower Moon' Director Martin Scorsese
Dec 20, 2023
auto_awesome
Renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese joins the podcast to discuss his new film 'Killers of the Flower Moon'. He talks about the cultural changes depicted in the movie and the challenges of making Western films. Scorsese also reflects on the influence of Cassavetes on his work, script reworking during COVID-19, challenges faced during filming amid the pandemic, and his passion for filmmaking and finding inspiration.
The opening sequence of 'Killers of the Flower Moon' sets the tone for the film by symbolizing the clash between Native American spirituality and the encroachment of white settlers.
The character Ernest in 'Killers of the Flower Moon' is complex, with delusions and limited awareness, creating a delicate balance in the storytelling.
Deep dives
The Evolution of the Podcast: From an Idea to 250 Episodes
In this episode, the host reflects on the journey of the Filmmaker Toolkit podcast, from its humble beginnings to its landmark 250th episode. The podcast was conceptualized as a platform for in-depth conversations about the craft and process of filmmaking, inspired by the type of discussions Martin Scorsese would appreciate. The host expresses gratitude to the co-hosts, behind-the-scenes contributors, and filmmakers who have made the podcast a success. The episode then transitions to a captivating interview with legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, exploring various aspects of his latest film, Killers of the Flower Moon.
The Intricate Opening Sequence of Killers of the Flower Moon
The interview with Martin Scorsese delves into the director's choices for the opening sequence of his film, Killers of the Flower Moon. Scorsese explains that the initial idea involved depicting the Oklahoma Land Rush, but as the film's perspective evolved, they decided to focus on the Osage Nation and their experiences in that historical context. The opening scene, featuring a ceremonial pipe burial and oil gushing out of the ground, sets the tone for the film and symbolizes the clash between Native American spirituality and the encroachment of white settlers. Scorsese highlights the importance of capturing this cultural shift and the underrepresented aspects of Native American life during that time period.
The Complex Character of Ernest in Killers of the Flower Moon
The discussion with Martin Scorsese shifts to the complexity of the character Ernest in Killers of the Flower Moon. Scorsese draws parallels between Ernest's relationship with Molly and that of the characters in the film The Heiress, emphasizing the theme of unrequited love. He explains that Ernest's delusions and limited awareness of the truth are integral to his character, creating a delicate balance in the storytelling. Scorsese praises the performances of the actors and the collaborative process of refining the character's nuances, highlighting the challenges of filming the jail scene and capturing the subtleties of expression through the bars.
Influences and Inspiration: Scorsese's Reflection on Filmmaking
The interview concludes with a discussion on Martin Scorsese's influences and ongoing passion for filmmaking. Scorsese credits Elia Kazan as the initial inspiration for his interest in film and John Cassavetes as a key influence on his creative approach. He highlights the importance of exploring the truth and humanity in his films, drawing comparisons between his work and that of Cassavetes. Scorsese expresses his continued enthusiasm for making movies, emphasizing the joy of collaborating with talented actors and the thrill of finding unique ways to tell stories. He reflects on the freedom afforded by recent independent projects and the desire to make films that are not confined to traditional narrative structures.
This podcast was always conceived as a place where filmmakers could have the kinds of detailed, craft-centric discussions that Martin Scorsese would love. Now, for our 250th episode, the master himself joins us explain why his new film both is and isn't inspired by the American Western, and reflects on what keeps him passionate so far into his career.