Saltburn - A Movie Review

Be cautious - your guest may not want to leave.

Saltburn opened its doors in theaters in 2023. Oliver meets the charming and aristocratic. Felix during his semester at Oxford University. He invites Oliver to his estate where he meets his upper-class family. The summer is one nobody will forget.

I’ll tell you right now - walk into this movie totally blind. We’ve all seen the movies that warn viewers of the people who invite you to their homes. Saltburn, however, establishes a new warning; watch out for your guests.

Barry Keoghan mastered his performance as Oliver Quick. With everything Oliver mentions regarding his background, his behavior becomes increasingly suspicious. He knows how to talk to people and watches them closely like a predator. Keoghan’s performance is interesting in how he weaves viewers' attention.

As the family who welcome Oliver to their home, Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike, Richard E. Grant, Allison Oliver, Archie Madekwa, and Carey Mulligan are fantastic. The chemistry among the cast is excellent, adding an extra layer of tension to the already gripping narrative. One scene in the climax demonstrates tremendous acting from each actor.

This film debuts the talents of Allison Oliver. She did a great job developing her character and physical traits. Paul Ryes puts a new touch on butlers. However, some characters could have influenced more depth, coming off as flat.

Good decision on the casting department for Rosamund Pike’s role. Normally, she is cast as a shady and condescending woman which is what I thought her character would be here. Actors always need to try something new.

Emerald Fennell carefully builds suspense in her direction. The visuals are the best part. Fennell paid attention to every detail from clothing, to sound, and cinematography. The imagery is vivid. The visuals of Saltburn enhance the film’s eerie and mysterious ambiance. The film's best shot is when a red curtain is shut in front of the windows, illuminating the ferocious color.

This movie takes a completely different direction. The third act is the most memorable. Protagonists are not always to be trusted. I also thought it would take place at the college. However, as the narrative unfolds, Saltburn defies expectations, weaving a complex and thought-provoking tale that exceeds the boundaries of conventional horror.

Saltburn is a sensual film. Oliver takes advantage of most of the household members. One scene that is now the most talked about turned my nose up. The final scene of the film includes explicit nudity.

Do you want to live in the gorgeous estate while watching this movie? After some time, I wanted to run away. Filming took place at the Drayton House in Lowick, Kettering, UK. Rosamund Pike lived in the estate during filming.

The house is formal, filled with long hallways leading to several rooms. The estate selected for filming serves as a character, contributing significantly to the mysterious ambiance that permeates the narrative.

As great as it is to spend time with your friend’s family - be careful of the guest. Sporting a new theme, you never know your guest’s history and how they find out about you.

It's a movie that thrives on keeping its audience guessing, and the less you know going in the more profound the impact. Once I realized what was really at play, I sat forward in my seat. I thought I was watching a premise seen countless times. A chill ran down my spine once the credits rolled.

The ambiguity of Saltburn’s ending is both haunting and satisfying. It leaves a lasting impression. Check out Saltburn this upcoming awards season.