Reservation Dogs Star Kawennáhere Devery Jacobs Reveals her Journey to Success in the Entertainment Industry

The Flower Moon Discourse Has Arrived

Posted by Sarah on October 25, 2023

Kawennáhere Devery Jacobs, star of “Reservation Dogs,” recently shared her reaction to the film “Killers of the Flower Moon” on social media, highlighting the underrepresentation of Indigenous characters compared to white men. Jacobs raises concerns about how the graphic violence in the film, while intended to shock primarily white audiences about historical atrocities, still reduces the Osage characters to their suffering and normalizes violence against Native women.

Issue of Underrepresentation

Jacobs’ critique resonates with my own concerns about the film. While “Flower Moon” serves as a portrait of white supremacy, it falls short as a portrayal of the Osage victims. The Osage characters are underwritten and not given the central focus in the narrative. It is important to acknowledge that Martin Scorsese, the filmmaker, is primarily telling the story of the conspiracy rather than highlighting the experiences of the victims. However, this raises another crucial point: the lack of opportunities given to Indigenous filmmakers.

The Broken System

It is evident that the film industry suffers from a broken system that produces uneven outcomes. While Scorsese has received a budget of $200 million to make “Flower Moon,” no Indigenous filmmaker has been granted the same opportunities throughout their careers. This disparity highlights the need for change within the industry that allows for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard.

Reactions and Misunderstandings

Reactions to Jacobs’ tweets have been predictable, with some defending the film by emphasizing the involvement of Osage consultants and casting authentic Osage actors. However, these efforts do not negate the fact that the characters are still underdeveloped and the narrative does not center on their experiences.

Despite common misconceptions, Jacobs’ critique is not a result of bitterness towards Scorsese or a dislike of Marvel movies. As an Indigenous woman and actor/filmmaker, her disappointment with “Flower Moon” stems from the film’s failure to capture the Osage voice and perspective. It is important to acknowledge and respect diverse opinions, as well as recognize both the successes and shortcomings of a film.

The Need for Multiple Perspectives

Scorsese’s struggle to humanize the Osage characters in the film suggests the centralization of white perspectives and experiences. This emphasizes the crucial importance of having a multitude of voices in storytelling. While Scorsese has crafted a great film in many respects, the true story of the Osage Murders and William Hale’s “Reign of Terror” is still waiting to be told. This story can only be authentically captured by an Osage filmmaker.

Opening Doors for Change

We must ask ourselves what needs to change within the industry to open enough doors for Indigenous filmmakers to tell stories like the Osage perspective on these historical events. The release of “Killers of the Flower Moon” should be the starting point of this conversation, not the endpoint. We must continue to advocate for greater representation and diversity in storytelling.

As we reflect on the Flower Moon discourse, it is essential to recognize the need for inclusive narratives that give voice to historically marginalized communities. Only through the inclusion of multiple perspectives can we begin to dismantle the imbalances and inequalities that persist in the film industry.

Stay tuned for more updates on this ongoing conversation.