OUR STORIES, OUR VOICES
Throughout Turtle Island, we’re rejoicing in the well-deserved recognition and remarkable success of the talented Native American Oscar nominees Lily Gladstone (Siksikaitsitapii/Nimíipuu), Robbie Robertson (Mohawk/Cayuga), and Scott George (Osage) and the Osage Nation community members who have helped shape Killers of the Flower Moon. The film’s widespread acclaim is clear evidence of the power of sincere and respectful collaboration with Native communities, the depth of Native talent, and Native peoples’ capacity for crafting powerful stories.
Unlike the 1931 Academy Award winner for Best Film, Cimarron, depicted the colonization of what is now Oklahoma with racist caricatures of Native Americans, Killers of the Flower Moon took a different path. Strong collaboration with the production team, members of the Osage Nation and the film’s Native American cast influenced every aspect of the film—from the portrayal of cultural practices, use of traditional clothing, and Osage language on screen to how the script captures the Osage Nation’s experience during the Reign of Terror. With its ten Oscar nominations, Killers of the Flower Moon will have a continued impact on how Native stories are brought to life in the film industry for generations to come.
Photo Credit Hugo Yu
JOIN THE CELEBRATION OF NATIVE REPRESENTATION AT THE OSCARS!
- Download the IllumiNative Oscars Watch Party Kit for fun activities, recipes, and more.
- On Oscars evening (March 10), share your watch party images on social using #OurStoriesOurVoices
Download the Kit
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON OSCAR NOMINATIONS
These groundbreaking artists are expanding Native American representation in the film industry through their work viewed (and heard) in the film and behind the scenes.
Lily Gladstone, the first Native American Oscar nominee for Best Actress in a Leading Role, has inspired us to imagine beyond what we thought possible. Robbie Robertson and Scott George and the Osage Tribal Singers’ nominations for Best Score and Best Song respectively, highlight Indigenous musical talent and traditions.
Additional Academy Award nominations include: Best Picture, Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Robert De Niro), Best Director (Martin Scorsese), Best Cinematography (Rodrigo Prieto), Best Production Design (Jack Fisk; Set Decoration: Adam Willis), Best Costume Design (Jaqueline West), Best Film Editing (Thelma Schoonmaker)
THE IMPACT OF KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
The success of Killers of the Flower Moon is a testament to the desire for storytelling crafted by and with Native voices, and signals the desire for expanded Native American representation on the big screen. Lily Gladstone, the first Native American Oscar nominee for Best Actress, has inspired Native American performers at every stage of their creative development to see success through dedication and commitment to their passion as an attainable reality.
BRINGING OUR STORIES INTO FOCUS
For too long Native stories have been told without us or not at all. Killers of the Flower Moon brings the weight of the Osage Reign of Terror to the global stage—paving the way for a deeper curiosity and understanding of Native history and its present day impact. Although a single depiction could never capture every nuance, guidance offered by members of the Osage Nation helped ensure the story incorporated their community’s voices and lived experiences.
Get an Osage Perspective on Native Representation in Hollywood
MAKING SPACE FOR THE BREADTH OF NATIVE TALENT
From fashion designers to up-and-coming filmmakers and performers, Native American creatives have felt the glow of Lily Gladstone’s success. As their star continues to rise, they have thoughtfully used their spotlight to showcase Native American creatives and make space for others to join them on the world’s stage.
