Saltburn sinks its teeth into privilege and obsession
An enthralling dark comedy-drama that twists its way through luxury and decadence, Saltburn is a sharp and thrilling exploration of class, desire, and the lengths one goes to fit in. Emerald Fennell, following her searing debut Promising Young Woman, showcases an even bolder narrative vision, dipping into themes of obsession, betrayal, and the grotesque allure of wealth. While it’s a more sinister take on a coming-of-age tale, it masterfully balances wit with an eerie discomfort, offering an experience that’s both entertaining and deeply unsettling.
The plot follows Oliver (Barry Keoghan), a shy and awkward student at Oxford who finds himself pulled into the orbit of the charismatic and aristocratic Felix (Jacob Elordi). When Felix invites him to spend the summer at his sprawling family estate, Saltburn, Oliver is thrust into a world of opulence that teeters between enchanting and monstrous. As Oliver navigates this labyrinth of privilege, he becomes increasingly fixated on his new friend and his lavish lifestyle, setting the stage for a chilling unraveling.
Keoghan shines in the role of Oliver, blending vulnerability with an undercurrent of malice that keeps the audience guessing about his true intentions. Meanwhile, Elordi embodies the effortlessly charming yet clueless Felix, representing a breed of privilege so detached from reality that it becomes almost otherworldly. Together, their chemistry propels the narrative forward, with Fennell’s razor-sharp dialogue ensuring that every interaction is loaded with tension and subtext.
Fennell’s direction here is dazzling. She crafts the Saltburn estate not just as a setting but as a character in its own right—a sprawling mansion that’s equal parts alluring and claustrophobic. The cinematography luxuriates in every detail, from the sun-drenched gardens to the shadowy, decadent interiors, mirroring the beauty and rot within the story itself. It’s a feast for the eyes, yet it never lets the viewer get too comfortable, constantly hinting at the darkness that lies beneath the surface.
The film also injects a biting sense of humor into its social commentary. Fennell is unflinching in her critique of the upper class, poking fun at their frivolities while exposing the dangerous, insular nature of privilege. The satire is sharp, but never heavy-handed, ensuring that Saltburn remains captivating and clever rather than preachy. And just when you think you’ve grasped the film’s message, it veers into territory that’s both shocking and darkly satisfying.
If there’s a critique to be made, it’s that the narrative sometimes indulges in its own excess, lingering on certain scenes perhaps a beat too long. However, this pacing choice could also be seen as intentional, mirroring the indulgent world it depicts. With such a compelling cast, wicked humor, and unsettling twists, Saltburn cements Fennell as a filmmaker unafraid to take risks and delve into the darker corners of human nature.
Saltburn is a wild ride through the perils of obsession and envy. Its blend of biting satire, exquisite visuals, and complex characters makes it an enthralling watch from start to finish—a wickedly fun, yet cautionary tale about the seductive, often perilous allure of high society.
