‘Saltburn’ is a jaw-dropping psychological thriller

 Nothing could prepare audiences for “Saltburn,” the psychological thriller and black comedy that was released on Nov. 17. The film follows a young university student who becomes obsessed with a wealthy student and his family, ultimately spending the summer with them at their Saltburn estate.

“Saltburn” stars Barry Keoghan alongside Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike, Richard E. Grant, Alison Oliver, Archie Madekwe and Carey Mulligan. Keoghan, playing the role of obssessed university student Oliver Quick, was truly breathtaking to watch. Keoghan nailed his role and made audiences audibly gasp with his character.

Besides Keoghan, the entire cast was tremendous, with Elordi and Pike’s performances being the most notable. Elordi, playing Felix Catton, was terrific. In the beginning, he was a typical rich-and-privileged jock character who focused on girls over his academics. As the story went on, Felix became a more likable figure, showing his vulnerable side with his history of friends leaving him or only wanting him for specific reasons. His role was genuine, but unfortunately for him, it didn’t end well.

Pike played Felix’s mother, Lady Elspeth, and was a loveable personality from the beginning. She was comedic in her relationship with Pamela (Mulligan) and was pure throughout. She was caring for Oliver and tried to keep the family together at peace, regardless of any traumatic events. Pike put forth a must-see performance.

It’s not only the acting that makes “Saltburn” great. The story, despite leaving the audience with many questions, was quick in pulling viewers in. The story is complex and deep, with underlying messages and feelings that may not be fully seen on the big screen.

The biggest recurring themes were excess and obsession. Oliver wanting this level of wealth after coming from a poor family is understandable at first, but it also points to a large issue at hand for him: wanting this lifestyle based on his own obsessions. His obsession with Felix coexists with his obsession with wanting to be at the top of the socioeconomic ladder.

Oliver’s desire also drove him into wanting this status. He’s in love with Felix, but later in the movie, he says that his hate for Felix is stronger than his love for him, believing that people like Felix always have the upper hand and get all the glory. 

This obsession is briefly heartfelt, as it originally just comes off as someone who just wants to be friends with the popular crew. ‘Briefly’ is the operative word, though, as “Saltburn” quickly transforms into one of the strangest and most mesmerizing movies of the year.

“Saltburn,” despite being grossly confusing in some ways and leaving questions unanswered, is a captivating must-watch. No amount of preparation can get you ready for the craziest movie of the year. As the tagline says, “We’re all about to lose our minds” – and audiences sure did.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT