A scene from ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’

Apple Studios faces lawsuit from Native American costume designer Christy Marie Hoffman for the film flower moon killerHoffman alleged that his exclusion from awards consideration was retaliation for raising a discrimination complaint.

Hoffman’s lawsuit, filed Wednesday in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims he completed most of the research and costume design for the critically acclaimed film, but that his contributions were neglected. Despite the film’s numerous accolades, including 10 Oscar nominations, seven Golden Globe nominations, and three SAG nominations, Hoffman’s work has been conspicuously absent from official recognition.

Hoffman alleges that her initial listing as first assistant costume designer by the Costume Designers Guild was removed at the behest of chief costume designer Jacqueline West. This removal applied broadly to all assistant designers, which Hoffman challenged. The guild later admitted that West’s removal was improper.

Despite the guild’s acceptance, Hoffman argues that her efforts were not recognized, especially when the film was nominated for an Oscar for its costume design. He alleges that his designs, including a jacket worn by Leonardo DiCaprio that was widely praised for its authenticity, were depicted as solely the work of West and consultant Julie O’Keefe.

The lawsuit lists multiple claims, including breach of contract, false advertising, retaliation, and intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress. Hoffman seeks damages and an injunction to prevent further misrepresentation of his contributions.