Saltburn (2023) Film Review

James Stocks
3 min readDec 12, 2023

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A Divisive Masterpiece of Unparalleled Originality ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“Saltburn” is the kind of film that polarises audiences, eliciting either fervent admiration or vehement disdain. It’s a peculiar gem that has left everyone I’ve spoken to firmly entrenched in either the love-it or hate-it camp. Count me among the enamoured; however, I must confess, it’s undeniably one of the most bizarre cinematic experiences I’ve encountered.

At around six pivotal moments, just as I thought I’d grasped the film’s essence, it took a surreal turn, becoming increasingly enigmatic and peculiar. Yet, despite its bewildering nature, the narrative remains a testament to sheer originality. It continually defies conventions and expectations, ultimately delivering a mind-blowing experience.

What truly elevates “Saltburn” is the stellar performances across the board. Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, Richard E. Grant and Alison Oliver shine brightly, emerging as undeniable standouts. Their nuanced portrayals inject depth and emotion into this unconventional narrative, anchoring the film amidst its surreal twists and turns.

The craftsmanship displayed in set and costume design is nothing short of magnificent. “Saltburn” proudly stands as one of the year’s standout productions in these categories, showcasing meticulous attention to detail that enhances the film’s immersive and otherworldly atmosphere.

Moreover, witnessing the talent exuded by Keoghan and Elordi fills me with immense excitement for the future of cinema. Their performances serve as a testament to the promising horizon awaiting the next generation of cinematic storytellers.

Furthermore, “Saltburn” acts as a harbinger for upcoming projects, sparking excitement for Sofia Coppola’s “Pricilla” and Elordi’s rendition of Elvis. The anticipation is palpable, fuelled by the promise of these talented individuals further pushing the boundaries of storytelling and performance in film.

Certain scenes within “Saltburn” evoked emotions akin to those experienced while watching masterpieces like “Suspiria” and works by Cronenberg. This emotional impact feels like a deliberate artistic accomplishment, a testament to the filmmakers’ ability to stir visceral responses and provoke introspection.

While each minor twist left me flabbergasted, it was the penultimate revelation that left me genuinely astounded, shattering all preconceived notions and elevating the film to unforeseen heights. This final twist not only defied expectations but also solidified “Saltburn” as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of boundary-pushing cinema.

“Saltburn” is a bold and audacious film that challenges norms and defies categorization. It’s a polarising masterpiece that demands attention, and sparks conversation whilst heralding a new era in storytelling and paving the way for cinema that thrives on originality and unpredictability.

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James Stocks

Films are my life, so I want to dedicate my life to writing reviews and maybe one day making my own films. Currently studying MA Journalism at the Uni of Sheff