In Martin Scorsese’s much-anticipated film, “Killers of the Flower Moon,” the haunting tale of the Osage murders unfolds through the eyes of Mollie Burkhart, a full-blooded Osage, masterfully portrayed by Lily Gladstone, known for her roles in “Certain Women” and “Billions.” The heart-wrenching story revolves around the devastating events that ravaged her family and their land in the early 20th century in Osage County, Oklahoma.
At the center of this gripping narrative is the transformative performance of Leonardo DiCaprio, who embodies the character of Ernest Burkhart, Mollie’s husband. He paints the portrait of a manipulative and greedy opportunist, driven by personal gain. Alongside him, the legendary Robert De Niro takes on the role of William King Hale, Ernest’s uncle, as they collaborate to exploit the vast wealth of the Osage Nation.
For those confused about Brendan Fraser’s over-the-top performance in #killersoftheflowermoon, that’s what happened in the book.
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“Killers of the Flower Moon” sheds light on a dark chapter in American history, revealing the true story of the Osage County murders. This tragic saga is intrinsically linked to the sudden wealth that swept through the region once a significant oil reserve was discovered on Osage land. Mollie Burkhart, in stark contrast to her husband’s materialistic ambitions, emerges as a central figure deeply impacted by the murders that claimed the lives of several of her close family members, including her sister Anna.
Mollie, although resilient and able to navigate the treacherous agendas set forth by Hale and even her own beloved husband, bears the scars of the Osage murders for the remainder of her days. “Killers of the Flower Moon” masterfully unveils the untold story of this tragic era, casting a spotlight on the real-life horrors faced by the Osage Nation and the indomitable spirit of those who survived it.
When Mollie Died & How Old She Was
On June 16, 1937, Mollie Burkhart Cobb, a central figure in the harrowing tale of the Osage murders, passed away at the age of 50. Her life had been marked by the devastating effects of these murders and the sinister attempts by her husband, Ernest, to poison her. Despite the haunting backdrop of her life, Mollie’s death was considered unremarkable and raised no suspicion that warranted another FBI investigation.
Mollie found her final resting place in the Greyhorse Indian Village Cemetery, located in Osage County, Oklahoma. It was a poignant choice, as this sacred ground also held the remains of several of her relatives, including her beloved sister Anna. It was a place where their stories and the collective memory of the Osage people would forever be intertwined.
As for John Cobb, he lived a longer life, reaching the age of 63 before passing away in California in 1969. The passage of time may have eased the wounds of the past, but the scars of the Osage murders would have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on his life.
Remarkably, the immense tragedy that Mollie Burkhart endured, as portrayed in “Killers of the Flower Moon,” did not prevent her from living her life in the aftermath. Her story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of unspeakable horrors.
