Osage Trails: Martin Scorsese’s Change of Heart

The Complexities of Native American Representation in Film: A History and Discussion

One of America’s most celebrated filmmakers, Martin Scorsese, has recently released his highly anticipated film, “Killers of the Flower Moon”, based on David Grann’s book about the Osage murders and the birth of the FBI. The film explores a true-life saga, encompassing organized crime, racial prejudice, and the evolution of American identity. However, what sets this particular production apart is Scorsese’s willingness to listen to the concerns and perspectives of the Osage community, the descendants of those directly affected by the events depicted in the film. This level of engagement and collaboration has garnered praise from both Native American viewers and the wider critical community.

Historical Context: Misrepresentation and Erasure

To fully understand the significance of Scorsese’s approach and the impact of Native American representation in film, it is crucial to examine the historical context of how Native Americans have been portrayed on screen. Sandra Hale Schulman, a Cherokee filmmaker and writer, provides a brief overview of the evolution of Native American representation in Hollywood, highlighting the persistent themes of hostility, savagery, and the white savior narrative that dominated earlier films.

Schulman explains that Native American characters were often played by non-Native actors, further perpetuating stereotypes and erasing the authentic voices of Native communities. This erasure extended beyond representation to the denial of the rights and history of Native Americans, as exemplified by the forced removal known as the Trail of Tears and the systemic violence and racism faced by Native communities.

A Shift towards Authenticity and Inclusion

While Native American representation in film began to shift during the civil rights movement, with movies like “Soldier Blue” and “Little Big Man” challenging the prevailing stereotypes, true progress towards more authentic and inclusive storytelling didn’t fully materialize until later decades. Schulman cites Kevin Costner’s “Dances With Wolves” as a milestone film that took care to use Native American actors and engage with Native American culture more respectfully, though it still featured a white savior narrative.

Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” represents a significant step in the right direction. The filmmaker’s willingness to engage directly with the Osage community and listen to their concerns reflects a shift towards a more collaborative and inclusive approach to Native American storytelling. This level of involvement, from pre-production to set design, allowed for a more accurate depiction of Osage culture and language.

The Impact of Collaboration

Jim Gray, a former chief of the Osage Nation and descendant of Henry Roan, one of the victims of the Osage murders, played a pivotal role in advocating for authentic representation in the film. Gray and other Osage community members wrote a letter to Scorsese, inviting him to visit Oklahoma and hear their perspectives. Scorsese accepted the invitation and had a transformative meeting with the Osage community.

Gray recounts the meeting, describing how he challenged Scorsese to break the mold of previous Native American-themed movies that required a white character to save the day. Gray’s impassioned plea and the overwhelming support from the Osage community convinced Scorsese to delay production and rewrite the script, ensuring a more nuanced and respectful portrayal of the Osage experience.

Scorsese’s Commitment to Authenticity

The delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic provided Scorsese and his team the necessary time to rewrite the script and deepen their understanding of the Osage culture. The production team collaborated closely with the Osage Nation, engaging Osage consultants, artists, and craftspeople. This level of collaboration resulted in an authentic and accurate portrayal of the Osage people, their customs, and their language.

Gray expresses his satisfaction with the final film, emphasizing how the Osage culture and language are woven into the fabric of the story, making it more than just a historical account. He believes that “Killers of the Flower Moon” serves as an opportunity for all Americans, regardless of their background, to understand the country’s complex history of colonization and the long-lasting impact on Native communities.

Editorial: A Call for Continued Collaboration and Representation

The successful partnership between Martin Scorsese and the Osage community exemplifies the transformative potential of collaboration and authentic representation in film. It serves as a model for future filmmakers and the industry as a whole.

Scorsese’s willingness to listen to the Osage community’s concerns and learn from their perspectives sets an example for filmmakers working with underrepresented communities. It highlights the importance of engaging with those whose stories are being told and valuing their expertise as integral to the storytelling process.

Furthermore, Scorsese’s commitment to rewriting the script and amplifying the voices of the Osage people serves as a challenge to the wider film industry. It is a call to action, urging filmmakers to move away from narratives centered around white protagonists and to collaborate with marginalized communities to tell their own stories on their own terms.

Authentic representation in film has the power to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and foster greater understanding and empathy. By prioritizing collaboration and representation, the film industry can serve as a vehicle for justice, empowerment, and reconciliation.

Advice: Fostering Collaboration and Authenticity

The success of “Killers of the Flower Moon” stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and authentic storytelling. To foster a similar spirit of collaboration and authenticity, filmmakers should consider the following advice:

1. Involve the Community

Engage with the community whose story you are telling. Seek their input, listen to their concerns, and involve them in every stage of the filmmaking process. By working closely with the community, filmmakers can ensure authenticity and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

2. Engage Native Consultants and Cultural Experts

Collaborate with Native consultants and cultural experts to ensure accurate representation of Native communities. These experts can provide invaluable insights into language, customs, and traditions. Their involvement can elevate the authenticity and cultural richness of the film.

3. Cast Native Actors in Native Roles

Avoid casting non-Native actors in Native roles. Instead, actively seek out Native actors who can bring authenticity and lived experience to their performances. By providing opportunities for Native actors, filmmakers contribute to greater onscreen representation and empower Native communities.

4. Challenge Existing Narratives

Break away from traditional narratives that rely on white saviors or reinforce stereotypes. Instead, explore stories that center the experiences and perspectives of marginalized communities. By challenging existing narratives, filmmakers can promote a more inclusive and accurate representation of diverse cultures.

5. Educate and Empower

Filmmakers have a responsibility to educate audiences about often-overlooked histories and cultures. By accurately portraying historical events and the experiences of marginalized communities, filmmakers can play a crucial role in fostering empathy, understanding, and social change.

Conclusion

Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” provides a poignant example of the transformative power of collaboration and authentic representation in film. By prioritizing the perspectives and voices of the Osage community, Scorsese created a film that respects the history, culture, and identity of the Native American people at its core. This serves as a vital reminder to the film industry of the importance of collaboration, representation, and the power of storytelling to create understanding and promote social justice.