Examining the Controversy Surrounding the Film’s Depiction of Privilege and Social Divide
Emerald Fennell’s film “Saltburn” has sparked a heated debate since its release, with critics arguing that it fails to fully critique the upper classes while portraying scholarship student Oliver Quick as a manipulative character. As an Oxford alumna, I couldn’t help but notice the parallels between Fennell’s own background and the themes explored in the film. In this article, we delve into the controversy surrounding “Saltburn” and explore the complexities of class dynamics portrayed in the movie.
A Dark Satire that Never Bares its Claws
Despite the criticism, “Saltburn” is a visually stunning film with impeccable direction and standout performances. The movie follows the story of Oliver Quick, a scholarship student, who deceives Felix Catton, a blue-blooded aristocrat. Critics argue that the film fails to fully explore the darker side of the upper classes, while Oliver is portrayed as a vampiric con artist. This lack of biting satire has led to mixed reviews and accusations of being anti-upward mobility.
The Director’s Background and Perspective
Emerald Fennell’s personal background adds an intriguing layer to the discussion. As the daughter of a renowned society jeweler and a product of elite educational institutions, Fennell’s upbringing and experiences undoubtedly influence her perspective on class dynamics. Her connections to the upper classes have raised questions about her ability to critique them objectively.
A Glimpse into Oxford’s Social Divide
Drawing from my own experiences as a state-educated student at Oxford, I can attest to the stark social divide that exists within the university. The film captures this tribalism, where one’s background and education play a crucial role in defining their social status. The elitism and entitlement of the upper classes are evident, but the film does not delve deep enough into these aspects, focusing instead on the predatory behavior of the middle class.
A Missed Opportunity to Explore Entitlement
Critics argue that “Saltburn” sidesteps the sense of entitlement that permeates the upper classes, allowing them to behave in ways that would be deemed unacceptable for others. Films like “The Riot Club” and novels like Evelyn Waugh’s “Decline and Fall” have fearlessly depicted the cruelty and absurdity of the upper classes. Fennell’s film, however, presents them in a more sympathetic light, focusing on their wit and charm rather than their darker tendencies.
Comparisons to “Brideshead Revisited” and Waugh’s Legacy
“Saltburn” has been positioned as a successor to Evelyn Waugh’s “Brideshead Revisited,” with the film even referencing the author’s influence within its narrative. However, while Waugh meticulously portrayed the upper classes in all their complexity, Fennell chooses to showcase only their absurdity. This selective portrayal has left some critics longing for a deeper exploration of the upper classes’ cruelty and flaws.
A Personal Reflection on the Social Divide
As an outsider at Oxford, I was both fascinated and repulsed by the upper classes, torn between envy for their confidence and disdain for their rigid social codes. I, too, had the opportunity to glimpse into their world through a charity fashion show, where the exclusivity and hierarchy were palpable. The experience highlighted the stark divide that exists within our society, a divide that “Saltburn” attempts to navigate, albeit with mixed results.
Conclusion:
“Saltburn” offers a visually captivating and well-acted satire that explores the complexities of class dynamics, but it falls short of fully critiquing the upper classes. While Fennell’s personal background undoubtedly shapes her perspective, it is important to separate the artist from the art. The film’s portrayal of privilege and social divide sparks important conversations, but it misses an opportunity to delve deeper into the darker aspects of the upper classes. Ultimately, “Saltburn” serves as a reminder of the enduring fascination and scrutiny surrounding class in society.
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