Amidst “Killers of the Flower Moon” buzz, DiCaprio prioritises filming over Oscars glitz

Despite the Oscar buzz surrounding “Killers of the Flower Moon,” a historical drama that garnered an impressive ten nominations including Best Picture, Leonardo DiCaprio, one of the film’s leading lights, was conspicuously absent from the ceremony. The film, which also stars Robert De Niro and Lily Gladstone and marks another collaboration with director Martin Scorsese, was a focal point of the night, but DiCaprio’s absence left fans puzzled and sparked a flurry of speculation online.

Leonardo DiCaprio, no stranger to the Oscars with a win under his belt for “The Revenant” and numerous nominations throughout his career, is known for his regular presence at the awards. Thus, his no-show this year raised eyebrows and questions, especially considering his pivotal role in a highly nominated film. Theories abounded on social media, with some fans suggesting his absence was a snub reaction, given DiCaprio’s lack of a Best Actor nomination for his performance in “Killers of the Flower Moon.”

However, it appears the reason behind DiCaprio’s absence was far less sensational. According to Entertainment Tonight, the seasoned actor was tied up with commitments to his upcoming film under the direction of Paul Thomas Anderson, known as the BC Project, which also features Sean Penn and Regina Hall. This commitment underscores DiCaprio’s dedication to his craft, prioritizing work on new cinematic ventures over attending the Oscars, even when a film he stars in is in the spotlight.

“Killers of the Flower Moon” stands out as a significant work, with DiCaprio himself highlighting its importance in addressing the erasure of Native peoples and cultures. His advocacy for the film’s message, shared through social media, emphasizes its impact and the need for widespread viewing, despite the Oscars outcome.

Ultimately, “Killers of the Flower Moon” did not secure any awards, rendering any onstage appearance by DiCaprio moot. Still, the film’s nominations attest to its quality and the enduring partnership between DiCaprio and Scorsese. As DiCaprio continues to juggle his commitments, his absence at the Oscars serves as a reminder of the demanding schedules and tough choices faced by Hollywood’s elite.