Rodrigo Prieto reflects on the controversial ​spanking scene in 'Killers of the Flower Moon'

Renowned cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, known for his work on Oscar-nominated films, was taken aback when he discovered an unexpected scene in the movie adaptation of "Killers of the Flower Moon," a departure from the source material. Unlike David Grann's non-fiction book that meticulously recounts the Osage Nation murders in the 1920s, the film features a jarring moment where Robert De Niro's character administers a severe spanking to Leonardo DiCaprio's character using a large paddle.

In an interview with Insider, Prieto shared his surprise about the inclusion of the scene, which was not initially part of the script. The pivotal moment occurs when Ernest Burkhart (played by DiCaprio) is reprimanded by his uncle, William Hale (portrayed by De Niro), for a crucial error in their plan to eliminate the affluent Osage family linked to Burkhart's wife, Mollie Kyle, played by Lily Gladstone.

Reflecting on the filming process, Prieto recalled the meticulous efforts behind capturing the impactful scene, highlighting the physical demands endured by DiCaprio during the takes. Despite the use of some protective padding, the intensity of De Niro's actions resonated palpably on screen, underscoring DiCaprio's commitment to the role and his willingness to take on challenging scenes.


Prieto emphasized that DiCaprio's dedication isn't new, citing his infamous consumption of raw bison liver for his role in "The Revenant," a performance that earned him his first Academy Award. Originally intended to feature a simulated liver made of protein bars, DiCaprio insisted on using real liver for authenticity, demonstrating his unyielding commitment to his craft and willingness to delve deeply into character portrayal.

As audiences witness DiCaprio's latest on-screen ordeal in "Killers of the Flower Moon," Prieto's insights offer a glimpse into the intricacies of bringing challenging scenes to life, underscoring the commitment of the actors and crew to deliver compelling narratives on the silver screen.