Emerald Fennell, renowned for her Oscar-winning debut, “Promising Young Woman,” unveils her sophomore film, ‘Saltburn,’ a captivating exploration of the British aristocracy’s intricacies. The film boldly defies the tendency in cinema to relegate the upper class to a relic of the past, offering a compelling portrayal of their contemporary existence. Set against the backdrop of 2005, ‘Saltburn’ immerses audiences in a world of opulence, exclusivity, and insurmountable societal barriers, delving into the audacious endeavors of an individual attempting to infiltrate this rarefied realm.
The narrative orbits around Oliver (Barry Keoghan), a fresher at Oxford University hailing from Merseyside. Struggling to assimilate with his public-school counterparts, he finds an unexpected entry point into their social circle when he aids the affable Felix (Jacob Elordi) with a flat tire. Their camaraderie solidifies, leading Oliver to a summer invitation to Felix’s sprawling estate, Saltburn.
Fennell meticulously constructs the film’s initial act to emphasize the glaring class disparities between Oliver and Felix’s peers. However, upon reaching Saltburn, the narrative truly unfurls its wings. The Catton family, portrayed by a stellar cast including Richard E Grant, Rosamund Pike, Sadie Soverall, and Archie Madewe, embodies the anticipated arrogance and extravagance of the British elite.
The heart of ‘Saltburn’ lies in Oliver’s endeavor to navigate the intricate web of deceit and manipulation within the family. Keoghan’s portrayal of Oliver is nothing short of resplendent—a snake-like social climber whose true nature is unveiled in moments of shocking revelation. His ability to mold himself to fit various social dynamics while revealing his authentic self in solitary moments forms the crux of the film’s complexity.
The film indulges viewers in sheer hedonism, reminiscent of the excesses depicted in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Saltburn metamorphoses into a decadent playground, bathed in the scorching summer heat, where the privileged revel in their inheritance. With her masterful cinematography, Fennell captures the essence of twenty-first-century wealth, presenting a visual spectacle that is nothing short of breathtaking.
‘Saltburn’ stands firmly alongside Fennell’s acclaimed debut, offering a shrewd commentary on the British class system. Despite its stylistic brilliance and engaging narrative, the film occasionally stumbles in maintaining narrative cohesion. The shock twist conclusion, while impactful, feels somewhat disjointed from the preceding narrative, leaving the audience grappling with the aftermath.
Fennell’s exploration of social mobility, coupled with outstanding performances and arresting visuals, cement ‘Saltburn’ as one of the most original films in recent memory. The film successfully navigates the complexities of class dynamics with finesse, although a more seamless narrative trajectory could have elevated it to greater heights.
‘Saltburn demands attention for its cinematic artistry, captivating storytelling, and a standout performance by Barry Keoghan. It weaves a narrative that transcends the clichés of aristocratic portrayals, offering a nuanced exploration of the elite’s decadence and the consequences of one man’s audacious venture into their world. While the film flounders with occasional narrative hiccups, its overall impact is undeniable, making it a must-see for those intrigued by the interplay of class dynamics and societal barriers. Still, buyer beware – it’s, at times, raunchy and unsettling.