Introduction to Saltburn

Emerald Fennell’s latest cinematic venture, Saltburn, is a 2023 black comedy psychological thriller that has captivated audiences with its intriguing plot and stellar cast. The film stars Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike, Richard E. Grant, Alison Oliver, and Archie Madekwe. Set against the backdrop of Oxford and Northamptonshire, the narrative revolves around a scholarship student at Oxford University who becomes entangled in the complex dynamics of an aristocratic family.

Premiere and Release Details

Saltburn made its debut at the 50th Telluride Film Festival on August 31, 2023, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Following the festival circuit, the film was released in cinemas across the United Kingdom and select cinemas in the United States on November 17, 2023. The U.S. saw a wider release on November 22, just before the film was made available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video on December 22, 2023, where it quickly became one of the platform’s most-streamed films.

Plot Overview

The film’s plot centers around Oliver Quick, a scholarship student at Oxford, who struggles with the social nuances of the upper-class environment. His friendship with Felix Catton, a popular and affluent student, takes a dark turn as Oliver becomes increasingly obsessed with Felix and his family. The narrative unfolds over a summer at Felix’s family estate, Saltburn, leading to shocking revelations and tragic events that captivate the viewer’s attention through to the climactic finale.

Cast and Characters

The film features Barry Keoghan as Oliver Quick, whose performance has been noted for its intensity and depth. Jacob Elordi plays Felix Catton, bringing charm and complexity to his role. Rosamund Pike and Richard E. Grant portray Felix’s parents, adding gravitas and nuance to the aristocratic Catton family. Alison Oliver and Archie Madekwe also deliver compelling performances that enrich the film’s dynamic narrative.

Production Insights

Directed, written, and co-produced by Emerald Fennell, Saltburn is her second directorial venture following the acclaimed Promising Young Woman. The film was produced under the banners of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, MRC, Lie Still, and LuckyChap Entertainment, with notable contributions from producers such as Josey McNamara and Margot Robbie. Filming locations included prestigious colleges at the University of Oxford and the scenic Drayton House in Northamptonshire, which added authenticity and visual appeal to the film.

Music and Soundtrack

The musical score for Saltburn was composed by Anthony Willis, who previously collaborated with Fennell on Promising Young Woman. The soundtrack, released by Milan Records on the same day as the film’s theatrical release, features a mix of contemporary and classic tracks that effectively complement the film’s tone and setting.

Themes and Reception

Saltburn explores themes of obsession, deception, and the dark undercurrents of social class. The film has been generally well-received by critics, garnering nominations for several awards, including two Golden Globe Awards and five BAFTA Film Awards. It has also sparked discussions regarding its portrayal of complex characters and morally ambiguous situations.

Box Office Performance

As of its latest updates, Saltburn has grossed over $21.1 million worldwide, demonstrating its commercial success alongside its critical acclaim. The film performed well both in domestic and international markets, reflecting its broad appeal and the effective marketing strategies employed by its distributors.

Conclusion

Saltburn stands out as a significant work in Emerald Fennell’s directorial portfolio, offering a compelling blend of drama, suspense, and dark humor. With its intriguing plot, exceptional cast, and thematic depth, the film is likely to continue attracting audiences and accolades in the cinematic world.

FAQs

• When was Saltburn released?
  Saltburn was released in the UK and the US on November 17, 2023.
• Who directed Saltburn?
  The film was directed by Emerald Fennell.
• What are the main themes of Saltburn?
  The film explores themes of obsession, social class, and deception.
• How has Saltburn performed at the box office?
  As of the latest updates, Saltburn has grossed over $21.1 million worldwide.
• Where was Saltburn filmed?
  The film was shot in various locations including the University of Oxford and Drayton House in Northamptonshire.