Saltburn (2023), directed by Emerald Fennell, is not a traditional horror film, but it does contain several unsettling and disturbing elements that some viewers may find unnerving. The film, which blends elements of black comedy and psychological thriller, creates an eerie atmosphere through its dark humor, provocative themes, and unsettling character dynamics. While it doesn't rely on typical horror tropes like jump scares or supernatural entities, Saltburn delves into psychological manipulation, obsession, and social decay, which can make it feel quite unsettling.
At its core, Saltburn is a psychological thriller that explores themes of class disparity, obsession, and deception. The story follows a young Oxford University student, Oliver, who becomes infatuated with the wealthy and enigmatic Felix and his aristocratic family. As Oliver is drawn deeper into the world of wealth and excess at the grand Saltburn estate, the film's psychological tension builds, creating an unsettling and suspenseful experience for the audience.
Emerald Fennell masterfully crafts an atmosphere filled with tension and unease, using clever cinematography, haunting music, and unpredictable character actions to keep viewers on edge. The psychological manipulation and morally ambiguous characters contribute to a creeping sense of dread that lingers throughout the film.
While Saltburn does not contain traditional horror elements, it features several scenes that may be considered disturbing or grotesque. The film explores themes of power, obsession, and the darker aspects of human nature, often portraying them through shocking imagery and unsettling behavior. Moments of excessive indulgence, betrayal, and eerie voyeurism can leave viewers with a lingering sense of discomfort.
Certain scenes are designed to provoke and challenge the audience, making them feel complicit in the story's moral ambiguity. This discomfort can be perceived as "scary" in a psychological sense, as the film forces viewers to confront unsettling truths about privilege, manipulation, and human desires.
A significant aspect of Saltburn that differentiates it from typical horror films is its use of dark humor. The film satirizes the absurdity of wealth and privilege, presenting exaggerated and often grotesque scenarios that teeter on the edge of horror and comedy.
This combination of humor and discomfort creates an unsettling tone where audiences may find themselves laughing at moments that feel morally ambiguous or outright disturbing. The absurdity of certain situations enhances the overall sense of unease, as viewers are unsure whether to be amused or horrified.
Unlike traditional horror movies that rely on sudden, startling moments to create fear, Saltburn takes a more subtle approach to building tension. Instead of relying on jump scares, the film focuses on creating a slow-burn atmosphere that keeps viewers anxious about what might happen next.
The film’s psychological manipulation and eerie social dynamics replace traditional horror scares with a lingering sense of discomfort that intensifies as the story unfolds. The absence of typical horror elements like supernatural entities or gore makes the psychological horror aspects stand out even more.
Audience reactions to Saltburn have been mixed when it comes to its scare factor. Some viewers find the film deeply unsettling due to its exploration of obsession and power dynamics, while others see it more as a darkly comedic satire with disturbing undertones. The film's ability to evoke discomfort and provoke thought has led to debates about whether it can truly be classified as "scary."
Critics have praised the film's ability to blur the lines between horror and dark comedy, with some describing it as a "psychological nightmare wrapped in satire." However, others feel that its shock value and provocative content make it more unsettling than traditionally scary.
The level of discomfort or fear experienced while watching Saltburn largely depends on the viewer's sensitivity to certain themes. Those who are easily disturbed by psychological manipulation, social tension, or morally ambiguous characters may find the film unsettling.
On the other hand, viewers who enjoy psychological thrillers with elements of dark humor and satire may find Saltburn more entertaining than frightening. The film’s lavish visuals and opulent setting contrast with its darker themes, making it an intriguing watch for those who appreciate thought-provoking cinema.
While Saltburn is not a conventional horror film, it does contain several elements that can be unsettling or disturbing to viewers. Its psychological thriller aspects, dark humor, and provocative themes create an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after the film ends. Rather than relying on traditional horror tropes, Saltburn explores the horrors of obsession, privilege, and human nature, making it an unsettling experience in its own unique way.
For those seeking a horror movie filled with jump scares and supernatural elements, Saltburn may not be the right fit. However, if you enjoy psychological tension, social satire, and thought-provoking discomfort, the film delivers a chilling experience in its own right.