You Will Like This If:
- You enjoy menacing sexual energy and strange encounters with bathtubs
- You’re a fan of male genitals windsocking in a solo dance number
- Slow burn psychotic tension is your thing
Review – With No Spoilers
I had no context for Saltburn going in other than I was a fan of the writer/director’s previous film, Promising Young Woman. Similar to that film, Saltburn delivers on an emotional thriller punctuated by biting moments of dark comedy. It’s two hours of scathing indictments of wealth, class politics, and the Ivy League. Needless to say, I’m a fan.
The acting performances, led by Barry Keoghan’s twitchy, uncomfortable-silence-making, Oliver are phenomenal. Each side character is a certified freak and more hate-able than the last. That’s the thing about Saltburn, there are no heroes here, and there is no one to feel sorry for. From start to finish, every character on screen is demented in their own peculiar way, and it makes watching their interactions a delight. Despite the film’s slow pacing, putting all these wealthy shits together makes it feel like the candle burns bright for the full length.
While I don’t really understand the decision to shoot the film in a 4:3 aspect ratio – I’m not a filmmaker, just a filthy casual – it doesn’t hold back the visuals. The sets and scenery reflect the characters well. The mansion feels like a character in itself by the end, and that’s a masterstroke. Yes, the film has moments of absolute depravity that are gross and gave me plenty of ick, but none felt unnecessary. Without spoilers, please for the love of your personal dynamics, leave your own family out of your viewing. I was uncomfortable enough watching it on my own, and I don’t think the cat is going to look at me the same way again. So, bear that in mind when choosing a viewing venue and party.
I loved this film. Recognizing that it’s not for everyone, I still recommend it for those that are fans of psychological thrillers, and dark comedy. The laughs are there, even if they’re muted or tamped down by an overall sense of menace. Barry Keoghan’s performance is a standout, and it has me excited to see what he does with The Joker in the next Pattinson Batman film. As an added bonus, Saltburn can be streamed as part of your Amazon Prime membership. Just be sure you know the people you’re getting into it with.
5/5 Stars – At this point, I’ll watch anything with Barry Keoghan in it
More info about how I rate films here.
