Killers of the Flower Moon parents guide: Is the western crime drama film okay for kids?
By Tiara Starks
Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon is already a critically-acclaimed film. It won Best Film at the National Board of Review and was named one of the top 10 films of 2023 by the American Film Institute. In addition to its 10 nominations at the Oscars including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role, there is a ton of buzz for this film to win big at the ceremony!
The film showcases the true story of the Osage Nation people in Oklahoma who become wealthy after discovering oil all while White people who then try to take it from them. Due to this, violence ensures and is depicted heavily in this film. The three leads in the film are Leonardo DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart, Lily Gladstone as Mollie Burkhart, and Robert DeNiro as William King Hale, the crime boss who plots to take the wealth away from the Osage Nation and insists on Ernest marrying Mollie so that the family is able to hold on to that wealth. Killers of the Flower Moon is produced by
Apple Studios, Imperative Entertainment, Sikelia Productions, and Appian Way Productions and distributed by Apple Original Films through Apple TV+.
Even though you may have missed it in theaters, the movie is able to stream for Apple TV+ subscribers. If you're already a subscriber or wanting to know if Killers of the Flower Moon is worth the watch with the whole family, you're going to want to read on!
Killers of the Flower Moon Parents Guide: Explaining The R Rating
Sex & Nudity: Many of the characters both supporting and leading are involved romantically. You will see the leads in bed with each other as well as engaging in sexual-related dialogue.
Violence: This film is full of graphically violence scenes, which is why it recieved an R rating. People are being shot at repeatedly, discussion of death and illegally weaponry. There's a car crash and many images of people who are left for dead in the street. People are also being robbed and beat up as well. There is talks about women being sexually assaulted and Native women are subjected to gross mistreatment. Furthermore, thievery is highly present in this film. Grave robbers are seen taking valuables away.
Language: Derogatory name calling is used against Native Americans. The typical curse words you would hear are spoken and used improperly towards other people hatefully and as a part of frustrated outbursts.
Drinking & Drugs: You will see many of the characters drink alcohol frequently both in social settings and resulting in drunken outbursts. Moonshine is consumed as well and cigarette smoking is seen. There's also reference to selling cocaine.
Overall Verdict: What Age Is Killers of the Flower Moon Appropriate For?
If you or your child are 17 and up, this movie is safe to watch. I wouldn't recommend it for children under the age of 17 due to the graphic nature of the film. Whatever you're decision is, know that this is a complex story about American greed, family, betrayal, and oppression. The film is centered around real events that occurred so it can also be seen as a learning opportunity to view the film.
Killers of the Flower Moon is available to stream now on Apple TV+. Keep up to date with The Parent Watch for more news, coverage, and opinions on family entertainment.