Delving into the Shadows: Emerald Fennell's Provocative Take on the British Upper Class
Saltburn director Emerald Fennell exposes the sinister underbelly of British aristocracy in her darkly humorous satire With an all-star cast including Jacob Elordi and Barry Keoghan, this Oscar-winning film unveils the personal vendettas and hidden secrets of the ruling class
Emerald Fennell skillfully styled Jacob Elordi with a purpose in mind. The actor from "Euphoria" has a packed schedule this autumn. From portraying Elvis Presley in Sofia Coppola's "Priscilla" to his current role in Fennell's captivating new project called "Saltburn," Elordi continues to shine. In "Saltburn," he plays Felix, an aristocrat who nurtures a relationship with a fellow student during a passionate and intense summer at the prestigious family estate.
Felix, a captivating figure, is no stranger to the writer-director's attention. "Look, if you're wondering whether I've developed feelings for a man sporting a Livestrong bracelet and an eyebrow piercing, then the answer is yes. We're all human," Fennell revealed in a recent CNN interview. "As I laid eyes on Jacob in his Felix attire for the first time, I couldn't help but think, Not again. I won't allow myself to be smitten by this individual once more, sir. Nice try."
Jacob Elordi as the upper class Felix Catton in "Saltburn."
Courtesy of Prime
Fennell, the Oscar-winning actress for her role in "Promising Young Woman" (2020), may not have been fooled by Elordis' haunting past lovers, but she gladly releases him to captivate audiences. Reminiscent of Dickie from "The Talented Mr Ripley" and Sebastian from "Brideshead Revisited," the immensely privileged Felix is portrayed with effortless charm by the talented Australian actor. It's no wonder that the bookish, working-class Oliver - portrayed with a delightful yet uneasy charm by Barry Keoghan - is irresistibly drawn to him. Who wouldn't be?
"Saltburn" embraces the British country house gothic tradition, complete with a snobbish butler, elegant black-tie dinners, deep-rooted traditions, and restrained emotions. Instead of avoiding her influences, Fennell (who has her own share of privilege) enthusiastically mentions a plethora of literary sources, including "Rebecca," "Jude the Obscure," "The Go Between," "Atonement," "The Little Stranger," and "The Line of Beauty."
"All of these works of art reside in the collective imagination," she explained. "I enjoy creating pieces that exist within a specific genre and playfully challenge its conventions. And the more distinct and precise the genre is, the more potential there is to push its boundaries."
In Fennells clever parody of a familiar formula, her two young protagonists cross paths at Oxford University, around the year 2006 (coinciding with her own time there). For one generation, her depiction of university life will be incredibly immersive. However, for others, it may be puzzling. Influential figures from the indie music scene mingle with disposable pop sensations like The Cheeky Girls. Students indulge in smoking at local pubs, rugby jerseys become a symbol of prestige, and the yellow charity band worn by Felix becomes the most coveted accessory of the summer.
"There is a certain charm in reflecting on the fashion, makeup, and social norms of fifteen years ago, as it now appears rather strange. Regardless of the time and place you find yourself, fifteen years ago can feel quite grim," expressed the director.
"We aimed to treat this era as a period drama, dedicated and meticulous, just as we would if we were portraying the year 1919," Fennell emphasized. She further mentioned that the challenge lied in the fact that many of the items she needed were not available in costume storage but still located in people's personal wardrobes; therefore, some rummaging was necessary.
Alison Oliver as Venetia Catton, Jacob Elordi as her brother Felix, and Barry Keoghan as Oliver Quick in "Saltburn."
Felix sympathizes with Oliver's challenging domestic situation and presents him with a chance to escape by staying at the grand family residence. While staying there, Oliver encounters Felix's parents: the retired Sir James, played by Richard E. Grant, and the captivating Elspeth, portrayed by Rosamund Pike, who confidently states her aversion to anything unattractive. Oliver also meets Venetia, Felix's overshadowed sister, and Farleigh, a fellow student at Oxford who sees through Oliver's attempts to win favor, perhaps because they reflect his own behaviors.
Oliver, a keen observer of personal uncertainties, sets out to forge closer connections with the family through a manipulative act of social advancement. He navigates the opulent hallways of this prestigious symbol of affluent heritage and social standing, leaving us uncertain whether his aim is to one day possess it or to dismantle it entirely (a reflection of the British preoccupation with class and the conflicting desires of ambition and resentment).
As Oliver ascends the ladder of society, a provocative and sexually charged drama unfolds among various family members, pushing Keoghan to audacious and boundary-pushing territories under the guidance of his director. "Barry is truly extraordinary," Fennell remarked. "He shares my instinct to delve into complex, challenging, and unexplored territory."
"He is an incredibly physical actor, truly grasping the essence of it being a profound sensory encounter," she commented. "Our intention was to discover those moments that evoke astonishment in both of us and in every other person present."
(Reader, I achieved it. Multiple times.)
Emerald Fennell directs Barry Keoghan and Jacob Elordi on location for "Saltburn."
Fennells screenplay takes a daring turn in the third act, similar to her previous film, "Promising Young Woman," but without revealing any spoilers. She hesitates to label what unfolds in "Saltburn" as a twist, as she believes it may seem contrived. Rather, the writer-director expresses her fascination with the chaos that ensues when life spirals out of control, acknowledging the fear, chaos, and intricacy that accompany such moments.
"In most genres, the resolution of the crisis is necessary," she commented. "I'm uncertain if ⦠I believe, for me, the third act constantly revolves around creating a cathartic experience while acknowledging the impossibility of achieving it, emphasizing that life does not truly align with that."
This perspective offers an intriguing glimpse into Fennell's approach to storytelling, revealing that the unexpected conclusion of "Promising Young Woman" held a sense of hopeful imagination for her.
Saltburn does not aim for an overly harsh criticism of class conflict. It is more enjoyable to support the instances where it challenges the wealthy class rather than those where it targets the lower class, but Fennell's decision to do both is noteworthy. Although there is some indication that she believes all Brits may suffer from the class system, there is also a critique of the elite through Oliver, who embodies the same ruthless mindset that elevated the upper class in the beginning.
"Everything becomes personal, doesn't it?" she responded when questioned about whether there was someone similar to Felix or Oliver in her past.
"I'm primarily interested in creating content that delves into the uncomfortable aspects of ourselves and the world," Fennell expressed. "I will never be able to completely detach myself from this pursuit."
"Saltburn" will be available in the UK starting on November 17, with a limited release in the US. It will then be released nationwide on November 22.
