The National Board of Review (NBR) has announced its winners for this year’s awards, and Martin Scorsese’s highly anticipated Western historical epic, “Killers of the Flower Moon,” has taken the top prize for Best Film. This honor comes just days after the film also received the same accolade from the New York Film Critics Circle, solidifying its place as a frontrunner in the awards season. Scorsese himself was also recognized as the Best Director by the NBR, further highlighting his exceptional talent in bringing this captivating story to life on the big screen.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” is based on the true story of the Reign of Terror that plagued 1920s Oklahoma. The film centers around Mollie Burkhart, portrayed by the talented Lily Gladstone, an Osage woman who was married to white settler Ernest Burkhart, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. Their performances have been widely praised, with Gladstone’s portrayal of Mollie particularly standing out and earning her the NBR’s Best Actress award. Robert De Niro also stars in the film, bringing his trademark intensity to the screen.
In addition to the acting accolades, “Killers of the Flower Moon” secured other well-deserved wins. Rodrigo Prieto’s cinematography was recognized by the NBR, showcasing his remarkable ability to capture the essence of the story visually. Prieto’s work on “Killers of the Flower Moon” and his collaboration with Scorsese on another project, “Barbie,” garnered him high praise and admiration within the industry.
The script, written by Scorsese and Eric Roth based on David Grann’s bestseller, also received recognition from the NBR. The screenplay beautifully translates the complex narrative onto the screen, effectively capturing the tension and drama of this dark chapter in American history. This acknowledgement further solidifies the skill and expertise of both Scorsese and Roth as storytellers.
While “Killers of the Flower Moon” dominated the awards, other notable films and performances were also acknowledged by the NBR. Alexander Payne’s “The Holdovers,” distributed by Focus Features, received wins in three categories. Paul Giamatti won Best Actor for his portrayal in the film, while Da’Vine Joy Randolph was recognized as Best Supporting Actress. David Hemingson received the award for Best Original Screenplay, and Tony McNamara’s impressive adaptation in “Poor Things” earned him the prize for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Mark Ruffalo’s performance in “Poor Things” was also commended, earning him a Best Supporting Actor nod. The film, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Emma Stone, had already garnered significant attention after winning the Golden Lion at this year’s Venice Film Festival.
The NBR’s Top Film list features an eclectic mix of titles, ranging from the historical epic “Killers of the Flower Moon” to other notable films such as “The Boy and the Heron,” “Ferrari,” “The Iron Claw,” “Maestro,” and “Oppenheimer.” This diverse selection highlights the NBR’s commitment to recognizing excellence across various genres and subject matters.
Additionally, the NBR unveiled its top five international, documentary, and independent films lists, showcasing their appreciation for outstanding achievements beyond mainstream Hollywood. “Anatomy of a Fall” was crowned the Best International Film, while “Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie” won in the Best Documentary category. These films, along with the other winners, demonstrate the depth and breadth of talent and creativity in the film industry.
All the winners will be recognized and honored at the NBR’s annual awards gala, scheduled for January 11, 2024. The prestigious event will take place at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, and will be hosted by the charismatic Willie Geist. This grand celebration will bring together film enthusiasts, filmmakers, professionals, and academics to honor the achievements of the winners and celebrate the art of cinema.
The NBR’s recognition of Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” as Best Film further solidifies the film’s position as an awards season frontrunner. With exceptional performances, breathtaking cinematography, and a powerful screenplay, this historical epic has captivated audiences and critics alike. The NBR’s awards ceremony will be an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable talent and creativity behind this and many other outstanding films that have contributed to the richness of the cinematic landscape.
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