Saltburn is a beautifully evil symphony. Each scene is carefully orchestrated through the actors that produces a fantastic performance. It’s a mind boggling, messed up whirlwind of a journey that ventures into detailed plot lines of capitalism, greed, hatred, love, friendship and jealousy.
Emerald Fennell, the director and writer, stated “how a person could love something so much that you end up hating it”. I believe that it was portrayed very well and it resonated with me heavily. Watching the movie filled me with a rollercoaster of emotions and I absolutely loved it. Barry Keoughon stuns and shocks the audience with a captivating performance as the main character. He directs the viewer’s attention with such passion and vigor that draws you more into the storyline. The movie progresses from a seemingly light hearted story and turns into a dark twisted fairytale, but it ends on somewhat of a high note, coming full circle. It’s filled with metaphors and allegories galore. If you miss something you have to rewind to watch it. Each character’s personality bounces off the others while simultaneously reflecting their downfall. Whether it’s between the family members, the best friend, or the random appearance of the butler, each character has their own struggles that intertwine, creating a chaotic dynamic within the family. Though a supporting character, Jacob Elordi is the foundation that stops the family from falling apart. He is the bond that drives and influences the decision of the family when it comes to Barry’s character. Elordi delivers a stellar act of being a light opposite Keoughon’s darkness and deception like a moth to a flame.
It lives up to its marketing as a psychological thriller, but it does have aspects of comedy and mystery. I loved how it reminded the audience of the time it was set in, 2006, as the set and production design helped make this world become real, whether it was the song choices or the Juicy Couture pants cameo. I also love how 2000s-esque the filming style was, as it felt as if it was actually shot in the 2000s. Saltburn has already taken place in my top five movies, and I will definitely be rewatching. I think everyone should at least see this movie once in their life. Saltburn is an unusually insane masterpiece that encapsulates the reality of a cruel fantasy.
Words by Ari Young Sang.
Graphic by Reem Hinedi.