By The highly anticipated film Killers of the Flower Moon, directed by Martin Scorsese, has captivated audiences with its gripping story, compelling performances, and vivid portrayal of its historical setting. Based on David Grann’s non-fiction book of the same name, the film delves into the Osage murders of the 1920s, a series of crimes that became one of the FBI’s first major cases. Central to the movie’s authenticity and impact is its meticulously chosen filming locations, which bring the haunting tale to life. This article explores the real-world locations used to recreate the atmosphere and setting of Killers of the Flower Moon and examines how they contribute to the movie’s storytelling.
The Real-Life Setting of the Story
The events depicted in Killers of the Flower Moon take place in Osage County, Oklahoma, during the early 20th century. The Osage Nation, an Indigenous community, had become incredibly wealthy due to oil discovered beneath their land. However, this wealth attracted greed and violence, culminating in a series of murders targeting the Osage people.
To honor the history and culture of the Osage Nation, Martin Scorsese and his team made a deliberate effort to film on location in Oklahoma. This decision not only grounded the film in its historical context but also allowed the production to work closely with the Osage community, ensuring accuracy and respect for their story.
Primary Filming Locations
1. Osage County, Oklahoma
Osage County, the real-life setting of the story, served as the primary filming location for Killers of the Flower Moon. The filmmakers sought to capture the landscapes, architecture, and atmosphere of the area during the 1920s. Several towns and landmarks in Osage County were used to recreate the historical backdrop of the film.
- Pawhuska
Pawhuska, the county seat of Osage County, played a significant role in the production. The town’s historic buildings and streets were transformed to reflect the 1920s, with meticulous attention to detail. Local businesses and residents participated in the transformation, creating an immersive environment for filming. - Fairfax
Another key location in Osage County was Fairfax, a small town central to the real-life events. Fairfax’s historical significance made it an essential part of the production. The film’s team worked to recreate the look and feel of the town during the era, using original buildings where possible and constructing additional sets as needed.
Historical Accuracy in Set Design
To ensure historical accuracy, the production team collaborated with local historians, architects, and members of the Osage Nation. The filmmakers used archival photographs, documents, and oral histories to guide the recreation of 1920s Osage County. From the design of costumes to the restoration of old storefronts, every detail was carefully considered.
Recreating the “Boomtown” Atmosphere
The wealth brought by oil transformed Osage County into a bustling boomtown during the 1920s. To portray this dynamic period, the production team recreated scenes featuring Model T cars, oil derricks, and period-appropriate fashion. Local extras were cast to fill the streets, adding authenticity to the setting.
Collaboration with the Osage Nation
One of the most remarkable aspects of Killers of the Flower Moon is its collaboration with the Osage Nation. Scorsese and his team engaged with Osage leaders, cultural consultants, and community members throughout the filmmaking process. This partnership ensured that the film accurately represented Osage traditions, language, and perspectives.
The filmmakers also made an effort to cast Osage actors in key roles, including Lily Gladstone, who portrays Mollie Burkhart, a central character in the story. This inclusion further grounded the film in the community’s lived experiences.
Additional Filming Locations
While Osage County served as the primary filming location, other parts of Oklahoma were also used to complete the film. These locations provided additional landscapes and settings necessary for the story.
1. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa, a major city in Oklahoma, was used for several scenes in Killers of the Flower Moon. Known for its Art Deco architecture and historical significance in the 1920s, Tulsa offered the production team a rich visual palette. Key landmarks in Tulsa were transformed to fit the film’s time period.
2. Bartlesville, Oklahoma
The city of Bartlesville, located near Osage County, also hosted parts of the production. Its historical buildings and surrounding landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for additional scenes. Bartlesville’s Price Tower, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and other iconic locations contributed to the film’s visual richness.
3. Kaw Lake
Kaw Lake, situated in northern Oklahoma, was used for exterior shots requiring open landscapes. The lake’s serene beauty contrasts with the film’s darker themes, offering a striking visual juxtaposition.
The Challenges of On-Location Filming
Filming on location in Oklahoma posed several challenges for the production team. The crew had to navigate unpredictable weather, the logistical difficulties of working in rural areas, and the constraints of preserving historical accuracy while shooting in modern environments.
Weather and Terrain
Oklahoma’s weather can be unpredictable, with extreme heat, sudden storms, and strong winds. These conditions occasionally disrupted filming but also added authenticity to the scenes shot outdoors.
Community Involvement
Engaging the local community was both a challenge and an asset. While transforming modern towns into 1920s settings required significant effort, the involvement of local residents and businesses provided invaluable support to the production.
The Impact of Filming in Oklahoma
The decision to film in Oklahoma, particularly in Osage County, had a profound impact on both the production and the local community. By shooting on location, the filmmakers were able to honor the story’s roots and bring attention to the history and culture of the Osage Nation.
Boost to the Local Economy
The production of Killers of the Flower Moon brought economic benefits to the region, including job opportunities for local residents and increased business for local vendors. The film’s presence in Oklahoma also highlighted the state’s potential as a destination for future film projects.
Raising Awareness
By filming in the real locations where the story unfolded, Killers of the Flower Moon has helped raise awareness of the Osage murders and the broader history of Indigenous peoples in the United States. The film serves as both a work of art and a historical document, shedding light on a dark chapter in American history.
Conclusion
Killers of the Flower Moon is a testament to the power of storytelling rooted in historical authenticity. The film’s choice to shoot on location in Oklahoma, particularly in Osage County, underscores its commitment to honoring the story of the Osage Nation. Through meticulous attention to detail, collaboration with the local community, and a deep respect for history, the production has created a cinematic experience that resonates with audiences worldwide.
By exploring the real-life locations where Killers of the Flower Moon was filmed, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and dedication that went into bringing this haunting story to the screen. Whether you’re a fan of historical dramas, a student of history, or simply curious about the film’s origins, understanding where Killers of the Flower Moon was filmed offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of cinema and reality.
