The saltburn movie is a deep dive into desire, ambition, and class. Directed by Emerald Fennell, it grabs viewers with its complex story and dark themes. Set in film Saltburn-by-the-Sea, it explores the lives of characters from different social classes.
With a 127-minute run and an R rating, it invites us into a world of Oliver Quick’s journey. Played by Barry Keoghan, he faces the challenges of privilege and deception.
Fennell’s vision shines with a cast including Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike, and Richard E. Grant. Their performances enrich the film’s story. I’m looking forward to the movie theater Saltburn experience, where class struggle is vividly shown.
“Saltburn” is set to captivate audiences with its exploration of human connections. It promises suspense and intensity in its narrative.
The Creative Mind Behind Saltburn
Emerald Fennell is a rising star in cinema, directing Saltburn. She combines her life experiences with a unique filmmaking style. The film, set in 2006, explores class and desire, showcasing her talent in character development.
Saltburn is inspired by the Gothic tradition, reflecting Fennell’s love for complex stories. Her work has won praise from critics and viewers. A standout scene in a graveyard, lasting over three minutes, is a testament to her bold storytelling.
The film’s look is thanks to cinematographer Linus Sandgren, who chose a 4:3 aspect ratio. This choice makes the story feel more intimate. The movie also features 2006 fashion and historical references, adding depth to the story.
Fennell’s connection to her past work is clear, building on the success of Promising Young Woman. Fans are excited for the film’s release on November 17 and 24. They look forward to experiencing the layers of Saltburn, thanks to Fennell’s skill.
Cast Overview: Who Plays Who in Saltburn
The cast of Saltburn is filled with talented actors. Barry Keoghan plays Oliver Quick, a shy student who gets caught up in the wealthy world. Jacob Elordi is Felix Catton, showing a charming side with secrets. Their story is about obsession and ambition.
Barry Keoghan as Oliver Quick
Barry Keoghan brings Oliver Quick to life, showing a young man drawn to the rich. His acting makes Oliver’s struggles and dreams relatable and engaging.
Jacob Elordi as Felix Catton
Jacob Elordi’s Felix Catton has a charm that hides deeper secrets. His character’s relationship with Oliver drives the drama in Saltburn.
Supporting Cast Highlights
The supporting cast adds depth to the story. Rosamund Pike is Lady Elspeth Catton, and Richard E. Grant is Sir James Catton. They explore the themes of wealth and privilege. Alison Oliver and Archie Madekwe also shine in their roles. Together, they make the film’s world more vivid and engaging.
Plot Summary: Dark Themes and Twisted Desires
The Saltburn plot takes us into a world of obsession and class differences. It focuses on Oliver Quick and his friend Felix Catton. The story happens in Felix’s big family home during a wild summer.
This setting lets us see dark themes and how rich lifestyles mix with morality. As we dive into the story, we see how characters push limits for acceptance and friendship. The film shows the dark side of human nature through humor and horror.
Oliver starts as an outsider but becomes part of Felix’s world. This shows the dark side of privilege. The film’s emotional core is in scenes like the bathtub moment, showing Oliver’s obsession.
These scenes make viewers feel both drawn in and uneasy. The film is 127 minutes long. It sparks talks about its themes, looks, and the acting, especially by Jacob Elordi and Barry Keoghan.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Running Time | 127 minutes |
| Rating | Rated R |
| Rotten Tomatoes Rating | 72% positive reviews |
| Average Rating (The Blue and White) | 70% |
| Notable Themes | Class disparity, obsession, sexuality |
| Key Characters | Oliver Quick, Felix Catton |
| Director | Emerald Fennell |
| Significant Scenes | Bathtub and graveyard scenes |
| Viewer Reactions | Fascination and discomfort |
Visually Striking Cinematography in Saltburn
Linus Sandgren’s work in Saltburn brings a stunning visual experience to life. It highlights the film’s themes of wealth and desire. The use of 35mm film adds a unique touch, making Felix’s estate feel opulent yet dark.
With a 1.33:1 aspect ratio, scenes feel like classic paintings. This draws viewers into the film’s captivating imagery.
Color Palette and Visual Motifs
The film’s color palette is a mix of beauty and absurdity. Rich visual motifs, like the hedge maze, show the complex paths of ambition and self-destruction. The lighting and composition highlight the contrast between luxury and human flaws.
This stunning cinematography takes viewers into a world that’s both glamorous and unsettling. It showcases the film’s unique aesthetics.
Key Visual Scenes that Stand Out
Several scenes stand out for their unique style. Intimate gatherings show both sensuality and discomfort. Lighting, like candlelight during dinner or TV and firelight during karaoke, adds emotional depth.
These elements make the narrative visually rich. They show the film’s balance of beauty and grit. Each visual choice brings the story to life, keeping it real amidst the luxury.
Cinematic Influences: What Shaped Saltburn
“Saltburn” is a film that draws from many sources in cinema. It combines classic and modern films to create a story that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The movie explores themes like social status and moral choices, making it engaging for viewers.
The film’s use of a 1.33:1 aspect ratio is unique. It makes each scene feel like a painting. This choice is inspired by artists like Caravaggio and Thomas Gainsborough, adding depth to the visuals.
The movie also touches on the wealth and ethics of its characters. It includes references to Palissy’s Plates and Giambologna’s “Samson Slaying a Philistine.” These elements add to the film’s immersive feel, drawing the audience into the world of the wealthy.
“Saltburn” also stands out in its use of music. It features authentic needle-drop moments that fit perfectly with its 2000s setting. This blend of music and film references encourages viewers to think about class, desire, and identity.
| Cinematic Influence | Film Reference | Theme or Element |
|---|---|---|
| The Talented Mr. Ripley | Obsession and Identity | Portrayal of character psychology |
| Cruel Intentions | Provocative Storytelling | Manipulation and moral conflict |
| A Clockwork Orange | Intense Visuals | Challenging societal norms |
| Under the Silver Lake | Psychological Thriller Elements | Revival of cult classics |
| Rebecca | Literary Adaptation | Complex female characters |
| The Go-Between | Social Class Exploration | Interpersonal relationships |
The Genre-Bending Nature of Saltburn Movie
“Saltburn” is a unique film that mixes dark comedy and psychological thriller. Emerald Fennell directs it, blending sharp dialogue with dark humor. It also explores themes like classism and power.
The main character, Oliver Quick, played by Barry Keoghan, takes us through this complex world. His drive to be part of the wealthy Catton family shows the dark side of ambition. The film balances tension and humor, highlighting the oddities of wealth.
The movie’s visuals are disturbing, adding to its thriller feel. Oliver’s obsession is shown in uncomfortable scenes. Yet, these scenes sometimes miss the mark, leaving viewers feeling more curious than shocked.
The film’s structure, with its whimsical elements and fairytale vibe, makes viewers ponder its darker themes. It combines high society with dark reality, creating a captivating atmosphere. The ending is both unforgettable and thrilling.
“Saltburn” talks about identity, ambition, and social gaps, showing how genre-bending films can engage us deeply. It invites us to think about these important topics.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Director | Emerald Fennell |
| Main Themes | Classism, Power Dynamics, Deception |
| Genre | Dark Comedy, Psychological Thriller |
| Notable Cast | Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, Richard E. Grant, Rosamund Pike, Alison Oliver, Carey Mulligan |
| Audience Rating | 80% |
Exploring Classism and Social Commentary
In “Saltburn,” classism is a major theme, offering a deep look at social differences. Oliver, from Liverpool’s working class, and Felix, from the aristocracy, show how class affects life. Their stories highlight the struggles and dreams shaped by wealth.
Middle-Class Vs. Aristocracy in Saltburn
The film shows Oliver’s struggle to fit into Felix’s world. This mirrors real-life issues where people often sacrifice their values for status. It makes us think about how class divides us and shapes our lives.
The film also critiques the aristocracy, showing both its charm and flaws. It paints a picture of a world obsessed with wealth, yet morally complex.
The Role of Wealth in Character Development
Wealth is key in “Saltburn,” showing both its benefits and drawbacks. It’s not just about success but also a source of conflict and change. The film exposes the dark side of wealth, where it leads to selfishness and mental health issues.
It urges viewers to think about wealth’s impact on our lives. It affects our relationships, morals, and who we are.
Music and Score: Underpinning the Film’s Atmosphere
The music score for Saltburn, created by Anthony Willis, pulls viewers into a deep emotional journey. It makes the story’s key moments even more intense. This music also builds up the suspense and tension.
Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s “Murder on the Dancefloor” is a standout in the film. It plays a big role in the ending and brings back memories for many. The upbeat tune makes people feel good and releases happy hormones.
Its popularity has soared, showing it appeals to all ages. This fits perfectly with the film’s goal to reach out to different viewers.
“Murder on the Dancefloor” is special because it brings back memories for adults over 40. It adds to the film’s themes of control and social status. The music choice is part of a bigger trend in movies, making viewers feel closer to the story.
In Saltburn, the music is more than just background. It weaves together with the story, creating a rich soundscape. Director Emerald Fennell uses it to enhance the film’s themes of class and deception.
Saltburn Film Festival and Public Reception
The Saltburn film festival was a key spot for “Saltburn” to shine. It showed off the film’s engaging story and deep themes. People had different views after seeing it, which is common with indie films like Saltburn.
They praised Emerald Fennell’s vision and the film’s exploration of wealth and emotions. This mix of bold ideas and emotional depth caught many viewers’ attention.
People’s opinions on the film were split. Some loved the film’s art and stunning visuals. Others felt it didn’t show the true cost of wealth well enough.
This mix of opinions made people talk about the film’s story and its effects. It showed how different views can spark interesting discussions.
| Aspect | Positive Reception | Critical Reception |
|---|---|---|
| Performances | Excellent portrayals, particularly Barry Keoghan’s intense role | Some felt performances lacked depth |
| Themes | Provocative exploration of wealth and excess | Critique on unrealistic representation |
| Cinematography | Stylish visuals and imaginative camera work | Questions on the relevance of style over substance |
| Audience Engagement | Generated laughter and emotional responses | Perceived as potentially disturbing for some audiences |
“Saltburn” has become a standout indie film. It’s sparked talks about creativity and social commentary. The festival highlighted the film’s depth, making people think and talk about it.
Critical Reactions: Saltburn Movie Reviews
“Saltburn” has made a big splash in the film world, debuting strong on Amazon Prime Video. But, opinions on the film are mixed. Some praise its bold storytelling, while others criticize its themes and story.
The film has caught the eye of young fans, especially those who like Jacob Elordi. It’s also gained fame through TikTok memes. Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s song “Murder on the Dance Floor” even hit No. 1 on Spotify’s Viral 100 chart. Yet, not all critics agree; some say it doesn’t handle class issues well and misses its mark as a dark satire.
The film raises tough questions about moving up in society and being aware of class. It has sparked debate among critics and viewers. While some love its looks and style, others see it as lacking real depth. This mix of opinions means “Saltburn” will keep sparking conversations long after it first came out.