Saltburn – Film Review

A captivating and very complex film, Saltburn carves out a unique niche for itself in the genre of psychological thriller meets black comedy. The film, expertly written and directed by Emerald Fennell, tells the story of a young university student who becomes enamored with his wealthy schoolmate in the mid-2000s and is set in England. His rich friend’s family’s eccentricities only serve to fuel this infatuation and elevate Saltburn to a breathtaking cinematic masterpiece.

Barry Keoghan plays Oliver Quick, the main character, with a youthful earnestness and intensity. Keoghan’s portrayal of Quick’s infatuation with his wealthy schoolmate Felix Catton, played with effortless grace by Jacob Elordi, has an awkward sweetness to it. Together, the two actors create a convincing dynamic of class difference and hidden agendas that heighten the suspense throughout the entire film.

Lady Elsbeth Catton, played by Rosamund Pike, is a compelling character. Her seductive sophistication and her quietly cunning nature are essential to Saltburn‘s distinct charm. Like a finely woven tapestry, Pike’s performance is rich with subtleties that add to an already layered sense of mystery and unease. Among the most memorable is the scene in which she conducts a poker-faced negotiation while sipping her tea with elegance.

However, the eccentricities of the film are grounded by Richard E. Grant‘s portrayal of Sir James Catton, who has won multiple awards. His satirical portrayal of the aging English nobleman is a masterful diversion from the occasionally brutal and hidden macabre aspects of the situation. Alison Oliver, a recent hire, excels as the sensitive Venetia Catton, balancing the ensemble of well-known actors.

The film’s greatest achievement, when combined with Fennell’s direction, is the writing. The story of Saltburn is elevated above that of a typical psychological thriller or dark comedy by an elusive playfulness in the darkness. The plot is inventive, utilizing traditional elements such as wealthy, slightly insane aristocrats, isolated English country houses, and devious plots, all of which contribute to the film’s distinct tone. The unpredictable script keeps pace with this inventive plot.

That being said, the pacing is a little too slow at times to please everyone. Although the tension is increased by gradually revealing each layer of suspense, some viewers may become disinterested due to the minute details. Saltburn isn’t your usual fast-paced thriller or boisterous comedy; rather, you have to embrace its complex world, sift through its charm and anxiety, and then accept the devastating blow of the finale.

The film’s cinematography paints a stark picture of classism and decadence while evoking a whimsical English atmosphere that is akin to a sinister, unsettling Alice-in-Wonderland fantasy. The plot’s tone and feel are greatly influenced by the unnerving calm of the remote country estate, which contrasts with the narrative’s nagging uneasiness.

The soundtrack and musical score enhance the suspense by using quietness and subtlety as effective tools to heighten the tension as it builds. The well-done sound design deserves special attention; the eerie loom of distant sounds such as clinking china, whispers, and unexplained footsteps permeates the entire experience.

Saltburn is a testament to Fennell’s detailed, leisurely storytelling and demonstrates her amazing ability to blend seemingly unrelated genres with ease. It’s humorous, dark, and eerily unsettling all at once. With outstanding acting, a sharp eye for detail, and creative narrative, Saltburn is deserving of your time. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but for those who enjoy their thrillers mysterious and their comedies dark, this could be a fun ride.