Film Review: Saltburn (2023) — A Visual Feast with an Identity Crisis
Emerald Fennell’s latest directorial venture, “Saltburn,” unfolds as a visually stunning yet perplexing experience that leaves audiences divided as more and more reviews are coming in. The film grapples with its identity, oscillating between shocking scenes and a desire to be a socio-political commentary on the ‘Eat the Rich’ theme, ultimately creating a conflicted narrative.
One of the film’s glaring issues lies in its deployment of shocking scenes, which, although crafted for shock value as a selling point, feel gratuitous and devoid of purpose. It leaves viewers questioning their relevance and disrupting the overall flow.
The film’s struggle with identity becomes apparent throughout, as the audience is left guessing about its true intentions until the final act (is it a homoerotic thriller, or just a psychological piece on unrequited love?). While it eventually becomes a biting commentary on societal issues, the journey to get there feels disjointed and, at times, tiresome. The big reveal lacks the anticipated impact, contributing to an overall sense of predictability. It ends up becoming tired as we’ve seen a lot of really good eat the rich films through the years.
The trailers, unfortunately, do little to aid in clarifying the film’s direction, focusing predominantly on its visual appeal. And indeed, “Saltburn” excels in this department. The cinematography and set design are nothing short of marvelous, creating a captivating aesthetic that manages to pull audiences in despite the narrative shortcomings. The film’s ability to maintain viewer engagement throughout is a testament to its visual allure.
As a viewer, it becomes evident that the film’s saving grace lies in its ensemble cast. Barry Keoghan delivers a compelling performance, fully embracing his role, while Jacob Elordi surprises with a charming portrayal that defies expectations (as someone who has not watched Priscilla yet). Rosamund Pike, as expected, was mothering (slay as always, queen). The cast’s collective ability to carry the film to its conclusion, despite the narrative hiccups, showcases their talent and underscores the divisive nature of “Saltburn.” These actors and their performance just draw you in and take you for a ride.
In the end, Fennell’s “Saltburn” is a film that, while visually captivating, grapples with a confused identity and a storyline that fails to fully deliver on its potential. The engaging ensemble cast and breathtaking visuals are at odds with the lackluster narrative, leaving audiences torn between appreciation for the aesthetics and frustration with the narrative shortcomings. “Saltburn” may be a divisive cinematic experience, but it undeniably leaves a lasting visual impression.
