Saltburn
Oliver, a student at Oxford University finds himself drawn into the world of a charming and aristocratic classmate, who invites him to his eccentric family's sprawling estate for a summer never to be forgotten.
Emerald Fennel
Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike
Review
Saltburn is a deliciously twisted cocktail of awkwardness, allure, and excess, blending humor, drama, and shocks in equal measure. Directed by Emerald Fennell (Promising Young Woman), the film is an engaging and audacious tale that will have you hooked from the first frame. It treads familiar territory—class disparity, obsession, and privilege—but Fennell’s sharp direction and layered characters give it a fresh edge.
Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan), a socially awkward and enigmatic student, finds himself swept into the glamorous world of the aristocratic Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi) when he’s invited to spend the summer at Felix’s sprawling family estate, Saltburn. What begins as an intoxicating journey into privilege, desire, and secrets soon spirals into something much darker.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its cast, who bring both depth and flair to their roles. Barry Keoghan is mesmerizing as Oliver, capturing his social discomfort and simmering intensity with unsettling precision. Opposite him, Jacob Elordi exudes effortless charisma as Felix, embodying the allure and arrogance of privilege. Together, the chemistry between the two male leads is electric, and their dynamic becomes the film’s most compelling thread. The supporting cast, including Rosamund Pike and Richard E. Grant, add delicious layers of eccentricity and drama, elevating every scene they’re in.
One of Saltburn’s standout elements is its razor-sharp dialogue, which masterfully balances biting humor with emotional weight. Every exchange feels purposeful, laced with subtext and tension. Coupled with a stellar soundtrack that perfectly matches the film’s intoxicating tone, the result is a cinematic experience that’s both stylish and immersive.
The film is also brimming with memorable—and often polarizing—scenes. There’s a provocative energy to Saltburn that makes it impossible to look away, though some moments will undoubtedly make viewers squirm in their seats. While these scenes are bold and unforgettable, they may strike some as gratuitous shock-value stunts, distracting from the film’s more nuanced qualities.
Unfortunately, Saltburn stumbles slightly in its final act. As the story careens toward its conclusion, it demands a significant suspension of disbelief that risks alienating some viewers. While the first two acts are firmly rooted in intrigue and tension, the third act’s twists and turns push the boundaries of plausibility, undermining the carefully constructed world that precedes it.
Final Thoughts
Saltburn is awkward, sexy, disgusting, and shocking—in the best and worst ways. It’s a bold and captivating film that showcases Emerald Fennell’s talent for creating rich characters, whip-smart dialogue, and unforgettable moments. While its third act may stretch credibility, the journey leading there is so enthralling that it’s easy to forgive. If you’re in the mood for a dark, stylish exploration of privilege and obsession, Saltburn is well worth the watch—just be prepared to squirm, laugh, and gasp along the way.
