Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon proved to be an extraordinary cinematic experience. Although its runtime borders on the immense, the film’s craftsmanship is undeniable. One standout performance that deserves acclaim is Lilly Gladstone’s, stealing the spotlight with an incredible display of acting prowess. Amidst the accolades showered upon Leonardo DiCaprio, Gladstone’s contribution truly shines.
The film offers a peculiar and amusing scene, featuring DiCaprio leaning over a chair while Robert De Niro administers repeated spanks with a wooden paddle. The intensity of each strike is palpable, showcasing the power behind those spanks. Cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes details, revealed that DiCaprio sported butt padding for the scene. Despite the protective layer, the impact of De Niro’s strikes was evident, prompting Prieto’s observation that it must have been a painful experience. DiCaprio’s willingness to go to such lengths for his craft speaks volumes about his commitment.
In a recent interview, Prieto hinted that the spanking scene wasn’t initially in the script but was added later. One can’t help but wonder if it was a playful response to DiCaprio’s penchant for improvisation and perhaps a lighthearted attempt to rein him in. Reports of Scorsese and De Niro’s reactions to DiCaprio’s off-script moments add a layer of humor to the speculation. Imagining a scenario where the spanking scene was a cinematic lesson for DiCaprio adds a touch of whimsy to the narrative, even though it’s likely just a flight of fancy.
Placed strategically at the film’s midpoint, the spanking scene unfolds as a consequence of DiCaprio’s character, Ernest Burkhart, falling short on his uncle’s directives. De Niro’s character, William Hale, takes on the role of disciplinarian, choosing an unconventional method to reprimand his nephew.
The resulting laughter from the audience during this scene attests to its unexpected and humorous impact. Killers of the Flower Moon, with its blend of drama and unexpected levity, stands as a testament to the unpredictable and entertaining nature of filmmaking.
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