When the opportunity to audition for “Killers of the Flower Moon” arose, Cara Jade Myers initially read for the character of Rita. Later, she tried out for her sister Mollie, ultimately landing the role of Anna, the most independent and troubled sister. Rene Haynes, the film’s Indigenous casting director, describes Anna as a character who is brave, unpredictable, and larger than life. Haynes was deeply moved when she broke the news to Myers about securing the role and wishes she had recorded the moment. Myers, on the other hand, was overwhelmed with joy and couldn’t help shedding a few tears.
Although Myers was raised in Arizona, she is a proud member of the Kiowa and Wichita tribes, both of which share a close relationship with the Osage tribe, the focus of “Killers.” Recognizing the importance of capturing the nuance of her character, Myers took nothing for granted. She wanted to ensure that Anna would be portrayed authentically and not reduced to a mere caricature. Working with three legendary film figures only fueled her determination to not be the weakest link in the cast.
To prepare for the role, in addition to reading David Grann’s book adapted by Martin Scorsese, Myers delved into Charles Red Corn’s novel, “A Pipe for February.” This book provided a unique perspective from an Osage character, further enriching her understanding of the tribe. Myers also immersed herself in the community by attending their dances, asking questions, and embracing their willingness to share their culture and traditions. The Osage people were incredibly kind and wanted their story to be told accurately.
Myers drew from personal experiences to tap into Anna’s character. Having grown up in a family affected by alcoholism, addiction, and mental health issues, she felt an instant connection with her troubled on-screen sister. The unpredictability and emotional depth that Haynes witnessed in Myers’ audition and performance were a reflection of the chaos she had experienced in her own life. Myers consciously aimed to portray Anna differently in every scene, showcasing her multifaceted nature.
However, Myers wanted to ensure that Anna’s alcoholism was not portrayed as mere partying but as the result of deep pain and the loss of her beloved family. She aimed to portray Anna’s pain rather than merely playing the alcoholism. Equally important to Myers was depicting the fullness of Anna’s character, from the sweet and vulnerable moments with her mother to her more rebellious behavior.
As a relative unknown in the industry, with only brief appearances in “This Is Us” and “Rutherford Falls,” Myers wanted to seize the opportunity to bring Anna’s full energy to the screen. Despite her introverted nature and social anxiety, Myers admired Anna’s boldness and how she took command of every situation. Anna’s vibrancy and zest for life resonated deeply with Myers, allowing her to fully embrace the character.
In conclusion, Cara Jade Myers shines as she steps into the spotlight with her standout performance as Anna in “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Drawing from her personal experiences and immersing herself in the Osage community, Myers authentically portrays the complexity and depth of her troubled character. Audiences can expect a hurricane of chaos and a mesmerizing display of talent from this breakout star.
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