Film Review: Burnt by Saltburn (caution: spoilers!)
A story of privileged recklessness I really could’ve done without
Saltburn was like an awful date. At first, it was good-looking, flirty and a bit risque. The next thing I knew, it was waving its d*ck in my face.
* caution: spoilers if you read on!
I admit, I didn’t know much about Saltburn before watching it. Awards season always brings films into my field of view, so I thought I’d catch up. I want to support female directors. I know nothing about Emerald Fennell but trusted Margot Robbie’s judgement as the producer. After I watched the film, I wished I’d maintained my ignorance.
The cinematography was gorgeous. The casting was good. I was hopeful at the start. After watching the film, my first thought was, “Why?” I didn’t understand the main character’s motivations. Sure, he was sexy, beautiful, and awkwardly wicked. But what was the point of all the madness? If it was just madness, that’s okay too, but let me know.
At the end of it, I was left with a film about a young privileged white guy doing whatever the fuck he wanted because he wanted to without consequence. I stopped watching the evening news for that very reason.
What I need from a film is payoff, the fantasy that privileged pricks get what’s coming to them or at least an explanation for their behaviour. Because, in reality, I don’t get that, and it pisses me off.
None of the characters were redeemable. I found myself resenting them lying around looking beautiful on a sprawling estate. Thank Goddess for Rosamund Pike’s fabulous and nuanced performance; I empathised with her maternal character…eventually.
I’m annoyed that the only black character was some ‘rescue’. Part of the family, but not really. When he was discarded, I felt discarded, too. I guess I should be grateful he survived.
I felt the final scenes were gratuitous and deeply misogynistic. I’m no prude, but I don’t need to see a semi-formed dick flapping around for no reason. I am so disappointed in some of the choices made with this film. I felt betrayed by the women at the helm of this project.
I appreciate Saltburn for its aesthetic. It was beautifully shot, and the acting was solid. I don’t need a film to be deeply ‘messaged’ to enjoy it, but this was a story of privileged recklessness I really could’ve done without.
Am I just getting old?
Am I missing the point?
What do you think? Comment below.