Dissecting "The Killers of the Flower Moon": A Critical Review

High Expectations and Initial Disappointment

"The Killers of the Flower Moon," directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, has garnered significant attention with a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 7.6 rating on IMDb. Despite these impressive numbers, not everyone shares the same enthusiasm. One viewer expressed profound disappointment after spending $9 to watch the movie, struggling to stay awake within the first 30 minutes. This review aims to explore the reasons behind such polarizing opinions and whether the film lives up to its critical acclaim.

Character Development and Plot Execution

The movie's characters were described as "pretty dump" by the disheartened viewer, who found the plot to be "boring as hell." Despite the film's attempt to evoke emotions through sad music during character deaths, the lack of effective character development rendered these moments ineffective. The three-hour runtime was deemed unnecessary, leading to further frustration. Comparisons were drawn to other lengthy films like "Interstellar," "Inception," and "Gone Girl," which are considered masterpieces due to their engaging plots and well-developed characters.

The Cast and Acting

One aspect that received mixed reviews was the acting and the cast. While some viewers questioned why people liked the movie, speculating that it might be due to the incredible cast and acting, others respected the direction of Martin Scorsese. However, there was criticism for not casting Jesse Plemons in the lead role and Leonardo DiCaprio's Southern accent, which some felt he has never successfully pulled off. Interestingly, Robert De Niro's driving goggles were highlighted as the best thing in the film by one viewer, indicating that even minor details did not go unnoticed.

Societal Pressure and Personal Preferences

The societal pressure to appreciate a film directed by Martin Scorsese was palpable. One viewer felt guilty for not liking the movie, feeling validated only after seeing others share their disappointment. This societal pressure can often skew personal preferences, making it difficult for viewers to form unbiased opinions. Despite being accustomed to long and slow movies and enjoying heavy and obscure films in the past, the viewer and their boyfriend found it challenging to get through the entire film due to boredom.

The "Message" Film and Political Undertones

The high Rotten Tomatoes score was speculated to be due to the movie being a "message" film and politically charged. While this can often elevate a film's status among critics, it doesn't always resonate with the general audience. One viewer mentioned their father thought the movie was only good for the first 110 minutes, suggesting that the film's latter part failed to maintain the initial intrigue.

Final Thoughts

While "The Killers of the Flower Moon" boasts an incredible cast and the direction of Martin Scorsese, it has left some viewers feeling disappointed due to its lengthy runtime, poor character development, and ineffective emotional cues. The societal pressure to appreciate such films can often overshadow personal preferences, leading to mixed reviews. Ultimately, the film's high ratings might be attributed to its political undertones and message-driven narrative, which may not resonate with everyone. As with any art form, individual experiences and expectations play a significant role in how a film is received.