Martin Scorsese’s Western historical epic, “Killers of the Flower Moon,” continues its winning streak, taking home the Best Film award at the National Board of Review (NBR) Awards. This accolade marks the film’s second major honor after winning the top prize from the New York Film Critics Circle. Scorsese himself was also recognized as the Best Director, solidifying his status as one of the industry’s most prominent filmmakers.
In addition to the film’s triumphs, Lily Gladstone received well-deserved praise for her outstanding performance as Mollie Burkhart, an Osage woman married to white settler Ernest Burkhart, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. Gladstone’s portrayal resonated with critics and audiences alike, earning her the title of Best Actress. Her compelling performance breathed life into the true story of the Reign of Terror that plagued 1920s Oklahoma.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” features a star-studded cast, with Robert De Niro delivering a memorable performance alongside DiCaprio and Gladstone. The script, penned by Scorsese and Eric Roth, is based on David Grann’s best-selling novel, adding depth and authenticity to the film’s narrative. The gripping storytelling and meticulous attention to detail capture the essence of this captivating true story.
Rodrigo Prieto’s exceptional cinematography amplifies the film’s visual impact and adds another layer of brilliance to Scorsese’s creation. Prieto’s skillful work on “Killers of the Flower Moon” showcases his expertise both as Scorsese’s trusted collaborator and as the director of photography for another highly anticipated project, “Barbie.”
The NBR’s history of identifying Oscar-worthy films is well-known, with their previous choice of “Top Gun: Maverick” as Best Film leading to six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. This year, the NBR has once again demonstrated its ability to identify outstanding talent, aligning with the Oscars’ Best Actress winner, Michelle Yeoh. Additionally, the NBR recognized Paul Giamatti as Best Actor for his role in Alexander Payne-directed “The Holdovers,” while Da’Vine Joy Randolph received the Best Supporting Actress award for the same film.
David Hemingson’s thought-provoking original screenplay for “The Holdovers” caught the attention of the NBR, earning him the Best Original Screenplay award. On the other hand, Tony McNamara’s remarkable adaptation of “Poor Things,” Yorgos Lanthimos’ film that won the Golden Lion in Venice, secured the Best Adapted Screenplay prize. McNamara’s work displayed a deep understanding and appreciation for the source material, resulting in a compelling cinematic experience.
The NBR’s Top Film list features a range of exceptional productions. Alongside “Killers of the Flower Moon,” “The Holdovers,” and “Poor Things,” films such as “Barbie,” “The Boy and the Heron,” “Ferrari,” “The Iron Claw,” “Maestro,” and “Oppenheimer” made the cut. The diversity and ingenuity of these films showcase the wide-reaching impact of the cinematic arts.
In addition to its recognition of feature films, the NBR also revealed its top 5 international, documentary, and indie films lists. The individual award for Best International Film went to “Anatomy of a Fall,” while “Still: A Michael J Fox Movie” won the Best Documentary category. These films explore unique narratives and provoke thought, reflecting the richness and diversity of the global film industry.
The NBR, comprising passionate film enthusiasts, filmmakers, professionals, and academics, will honor the winners at its annual awards gala on January 11, 2024. The prestigious event will take place at the iconic Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, and the evening’s festivities will be hosted by the charismatic Willie Geist. This grand celebration serves as a testament to the remarkable achievements and contributions of the winners and the entire film community.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” continues to captivate audiences and critics alike, securing top honors at the NBR Awards. Scorsese’s masterful storytelling, combined with exceptional performances, groundbreaking cinematography, and powerful screenwriting, sets the film apart as a true triumph of the cinematic artform. This recognition from the NBR further solidifies the film’s status as a frontrunner in the upcoming awards season, sparking anticipation and excitement among audiences worldwide.