The Enigmatic World of Saltburn: Unraveling the Intriguing Tale of Oliver Quick

The Unfinished Narrative

The final act of Saltburn leaves us with lingering questions, one of which revolves around the fate of a major character omitted from the screenplay. This character, who poses the biggest threat to Oliver's hold on the estate, is intricately woven into the fabric of the narrative, yet their ultimate destiny remains shrouded in mystery. While Oliver's victory seems assured, the screenplay hints at unresolved conflicts that continue to simmer beneath the surface, signaling that his journey is far from over.

duncan the butler in saltburn

As the dance of transformation unfolds, Oliver's triumph is overshadowed by the lingering presence of a character whose survival challenges his seemingly secure fate. Farleigh, though still alive, holds no direct claim to the Saltburn estate, thus posing a minimal threat to Oliver's ambitions. However, it is the enigmatic figure of Duncan, the butler, who emerges as the true harbinger of uncertainty in Saltburn's intricate tapestry.

Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan) wearing a tux in Saltburn.

The Watchful Guardian

Amidst the climactic events of Saltburn's ending, Duncan, the butler, remains an elusive and ominous figure whose significance looms large over the estate. Unseen yet ever-present, Duncan's watchful gaze bears witness to the unfolding drama, his silent observations serving as a constant reminder of the unspoken truths that lie beneath the surface. As Oliver's dance of transformation takes center stage, Duncan's lingering presence serves as a subtle yet potent symbol of the unfinished business that continues to haunt the estate in the wake of the Catton family's demise.

Barry Keoghan as Oliver reflected at an opulent dinner table and Rosamund Pike as Lady Elspeth in a floral dress from Saltburn

The screenplay hints at Duncan's enduring vigilance, painting him as a figure who holds the key to unraveling the intricate web of secrets that enshroud Saltburn. His knowledge and astute perception make him a formidable adversary, one whose quiet demeanor belies a deep understanding of Oliver's true intentions. While the movie may have glossed over his fate, the underlying truth remains - Duncan's enigmatic presence poses a challenge that Oliver cannot afford to ignore.

Barry Keoghan as Oliver Quick & Jacob Elordi as Felix Catton from Saltburn

The Unseen Threat

While Farleigh's potential return casts a shadow of uncertainty, it is Duncan who emerges as the true threat to Oliver's carefully constructed facade. Duncan's subtle yet unwavering presence throughout Saltburn speaks volumes, his silent vigilance serving as a stark contrast to the oblivious naivety of the Catton family. Unlike Farleigh, whose ties to the estate have been severed, Duncan remains a formidable force, his keen insight and unwavering resolve posing a challenge that Oliver cannot afford to underestimate.

Farleigh and Oliver in Saltburn with reflections of the Catton family in the background

Saltburn's intricate narrative weaves a tale of deception and revelation, with Duncan embodying the enigmatic essence of the estate itself. As the steward of Saltburn, Duncan stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the estate, a silent guardian whose presence transcends the transient victories of its would-be masters. In the enigmatic world of Saltburn, it is Duncan who holds the key to unlocking the true fate that awaits Oliver, casting a shadow of uncertainty over his seemingly triumphant destiny.

Oliver in glasses with an image of Oliver, Duncan, Elspeth, and James under umbrellas in Saltburn