Martin Scorsese's 'Killers of the Flower Moon' finds unexpected inspiration in Ari Aster's horrors

Martin Scorsese, a maestro in filmmaking, is not one to be easily swayed by contemporary directors. However, in a recent revelation to the Irish Times, Scorsese admitted that Ari Aster's distinctive horror storytelling influenced the rhythm and flow of his upcoming film Killers of the Flower Moon. Mentioning Aster's Midsommar and Beau Is Afraid, he told the publication, “I very much like the style and pacing of good horror films like Ari Aster."

Echoes of classics in Aster's films

It isn't just the modernity of Aster's films that caught Scorsese's attention. The veteran filmmaker was reminded of the pacing from classic B films, such as Val Lewton's and Jacques Tourneur's works. Scorsese was further quoted as sayin, “The pacing of those films goes back to... Jacques Tourneur’s Cat People, or I Walked With a Zombie. Just going a little slower. A little quieter.”

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Preserving cultural nuances amidst narrative

Scorsese was deeply committed to interweaving scenes that gave audiences a genuine insight into the Osage culture, such as baby namings, funerals, and weddings. His goal? To ensure viewers truly immersed themselves in the world he was painting. Taking inspiration from the haunting quietude present in Aster's films, he said, "One has to take these chances. At this age, what else can I do?”

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Every interaction with Scorsese provides a glimpse into the mind of a genius. While his nod to Aster may be surprising to some, it's a testament to the evolving nature of cinema. As the director himself hints, we never know when it might be his last cinematic masterpiece.