Shirley Yanez / 17 March 2025 / Categories: Movie and TV Shows, Movie

Saltburn A Cinematic Journey Psychological Thriller

Dark tale about obsession

"Saltburn," the cinematic tapestry that weaves a dark and mesmerizing tale of desire and obsession. The film opens with a haunting narration by Barry Keoghan, whose character Oliver, is drawn to the enigmatic allure of his fellow student, Felix Catton. It's as if he's been struck by the sharpest of Cupid's arrows, but instead of love, it's an intense curiosity that fuels his obsession. This narrative device immediately sets the stage for a psychological thriller where the lines between admiration and fixation are blurred into a toxic cocktail.

Oliver's voiceover is a whisper of the soul, a confessional that pulls us into his twisted world and makes us privy to his innermost thoughts. His fascination with Felix is palpable, almost tangible—like a magnetic force that he can't resist, yet is acutely aware of the danger it poses. The visuals complement this, as the camera lingers on the object of his obsession, creating a visual representation of the gravitational pull that binds him.

The film's aesthetic is a masterful blend of the stark beauty of the English seaside and the claustrophobic interiors of their lives. The juxtaposition of the vast, untouched landscapes with the tightly wound tension of their interactions is a poignant metaphor for the boundless nature of desire trapped within the confines of reality. The use of light and shadow, the stark contrasts between the cold, harsh exterior and the warm, inviting spaces where the two characters interact, all serve to highlight the starkness of their relationship.

Keoghan's performance as Oliver is nothing short of chilling. His ability to convey the depth of his character's emotions—from the initial spark of curiosity to the all-consuming flame of obsession—is nothing less than a masterclass in subtlety and nuance. His eyes speak volumes, revealing the tumultuous storm raging within him as he watches from the periphery, yearning for a closeness that seems forever out of reach.

As the plot unfolds, we witness the insidious nature of desire as it slowly morphs into obsession. The way Oliver's interest in Felix becomes an unhealthy fixation is akin to a slow-burning fuse, and every step he takes closer to the flame feels like a step closer to destruction. The film doesn't shy away from exploring the darkest recesses of the human psyche, delving deep into the themes of power dynamics, manipulation, and the lengths one might go to possess what they cannot have.

Felix, on the other hand, is a character wrapped in layers of mystery and complexity. He's a siren, luring Oliver into his orbit, yet there's a vulnerability to him that makes us question who's truly in control. His performance is a tightrope walk of charm and menace, leaving viewers both captivated and unsettled.

The pacing of the film is deliberate, allowing the tension to build like a crescendo, until it reaches a fever pitch that is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. The moments of silence are as powerful as the spoken words, creating an atmosphere that is as thick with anticipation as it is with the saltwater air of the seaside town.

The climax of "Saltburn" is a poetic dance of obsession and despair, culminating in a scene that is both beautiful and harrowing. It's a testament to the film's ability to explore the human condition in its most raw and unfiltered form, leaving us to grapple with the consequences of our deepest desires.

In summary, "Saltburn" is a cinematic journey into the heart of obsession, a place where love, lust, and power intertwine in a destructive embrace. The film's stark beauty and haunting performances serve as a stark reminder that sometimes, the things we crave the most are the very things that can destroy us. It's a gripping, unforgettable experience that lingers long after the final credits roll.

Fantastic cast, including Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike Richard E Grant Brilliant acting. A must see movie.