Lily Gladstone, the trailblazing Native American actress, is basking in the recognition and historic nomination she received for her outstanding performance in Martin Scorsese's film 'Killers of the Flower Moon.' The 37-year-old actor, who hails from the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana and learned the Osage language for the role, becomes the first Native American to be nominated for the prestigious Best Actress award.
When the news of her nomination broke, Gladstone made a conscious decision to be in Oklahoma, close to the Osage community, where the film is set and the real-life version of her character, Mollie Kyle, lived. Showing her reverence and respect for the community, she plans to visit the Osage reservation and pay her respects to Mollie Kyle and her family once the excitement of the Oscars subsides.
Gladstone's parents were in on the excitement as well, FaceTiming her during the nomination announcements. Rather than seeing the TV screen, she asked her parents to show their joyous reactions instead. The exhilaration in their voices and the barking of her dog drowned out the moment when her name was called.
This historic nomination comes as no surprise, given the accolades Gladstone has received for her profound and moving portrayal of Mollie Kyle. She recently won a Golden Globe for her performance. The significance of this moment is not lost on her. Gladstone believes it is long overdue and a chance to restore and recognize Indigenous talent, shattering stereotypes about Native American women.
She emphasizes the importance of Indigenous actors and storytellers taking their rightful place in the entertainment industry. Gladstone, who has spent her career advocating for marginalized stories, believes that this recognition is necessary in a time when such stories often get buried or labeled as too 'woke.' She expresses gratitude for being part of a film that brings Indigenous history to the forefront and helps make it accessible to a wider audience, despite its brutal and challenging nature.
'Killers of the Flower Moon,' based on David Grann's real-life whodunit, focuses not only on the twisted love between Mollie Kyle and her husband, Ernest Burkhart (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), but also the love within the Osage community that propels them forward. Gladstone views the film as a medium for passing forward stories, knowledge, and a sense of identity, igniting curiosity and understanding among audiences who may not have been exposed to such stories before.
As for her future endeavors, Gladstone reveals that she has exciting projects in the works. Collaborating with filmmakers she admires, she teases that there are more stories waiting to be told and green lights for their progression. Being grateful for her thriving acting career and the opportunity to do what she loves, she expresses enthusiasm for not only her own future but also for transforming the landscape of storytelling, particularly in Indian country.
Lily Gladstone's historic nomination is not just a personal achievement; it symbolizes a significant milestone for Native American representation in Hollywood. Her talent and dedication serve as inspiration for aspiring Indigenous actors and storytellers. As the Oscars approach, she remains grateful and eagerly anticipates what the future holds, ready to support and bring deserving marginalized stories to the forefront.
