"Saltburn" Review

 

by John Zenoni

What is there to say about the much talked about, hyped-up and scandalous/controversial film, ‘Saltburn’ that has not already been said? Is it noise-worthy for some of the more controversial scenes? Yep, definitely, as there are several shocking moments for sure. Is the storyline truly original? Not necessarily, as one other film that comes close in nature that I thought of immediately - as has been referenced by others in reviews - is ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley.’ Is it is a good film? Well, I'm still trying to decide as I'm still trying to get over and digest the shock value of all that's in the film. And that, I think, takes away from the storyline and plot of the film itself. I think certain moments were purposely included to create a lot of drama, hype and controversy and it was all really unnecessary, as the story could have played out and been told without those particular scenes.

I will say that some of the performances were very good (Jacob Elordi, as spoiled, handsome, millionaire heir, Felix Catton; Rosamund Pike as the Lady Elspeth Catton; and Archie Madekwe as cousin Farleigh, all did a great job), while others were very odd and out of place (such as Richard E. Grant as Sir James Catton and Carey Mulligan as Pamela) but the one character/performer who definitely cannot be ignored is that of Barry Keoghan, who plays the poor, unappreciated (and definitely underestimated) Oxford student, Oliver Quick.

Oliver befriends the wealthy Felix, who invites him to stay with him and his family at their estate, Saltburn, for a while. Little does anyone realize what will play out while Oliver is visiting this wealthy, eccentric bunch and how things will end. Keoghan is a great young actor and he really gives it his all (literally and figuratively) in his latest performance. I personally still prefer his previous performance in 2022’s ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’ compared to this one but he still does a great job here as well.

The director did a great job also, including the beautiful camera shots and scenes of the estate, although I'm not sure how this can be considered a thriller/comedy film. I've seen references to it as a dark comedy as well but I just don’t see it as such. It's dark and extremely sad, in my opinion, but that's just me. Just know going into this one that it's not a family film by any means and be prepared for some heavy, adult themes. Whether one likes it or not, this is definitely a film that will be talked about for quite awhile.