Saltburn
As he becomes entangled with the popular Felix Catton (played by Jacob Elordi) and is invited to spend the summer at his family estate in Saltburn where Oliver's fascination takes a toxic turn. Fennell's direction and the nostalgic backdrop of the early noughties, enriched by pop hits, provide an immersive experience.
Saltburn's visual splendour is gorgeous, capturing the beautiful architectural locations. The film's setting looks warm, with various cinematic techniques, including reflections, overhead angles, and intense close-ups, immerse the audience in Oliver's fractured personality. The fabulous cast, featuring great performances from Jacob Elordi and Archie Madekwe, along with Rosamund Pike's delightful portrayal of Elspeth, adds depth to the film's entertaining moments.
While Saltburn displays undeniable brilliance in its performances, the narrative encounters a slight setback in its writing. The characters, though brilliantly portrayed, may come across as somewhat paper thin, and as the film unfolds. Some scenes lose their potential impact due to the occasional clunky dialogue. Even though the exploration of class dynamics may become a tad predictable by the end, it does add an intriguing layer to the overall story.
Saltburn is a very provocative exploration of class dynamics with lavish style. It’s an enjoyable ride leading up to the climax which offers a glimpse into the directors’ unique storytelling. It’s fun but it can also be very disturbing at times.
The film is still showing in some cinemas but is also available on Amazon Prime.
