Saltburn, a 2023 psychological drama thriller film directed by Emerald Fennell, presents a complex and twisted narrative that culminates in a shocking and thought-provoking ending. Here’s an explanation of the film’s conclusion:
The Plot
Set in England in 2006, “Saltburn” follows Oliver Quick, a scholarship student at Oxford University. He befriends Felix Catton, a wealthy student, and spends the summer at Felix’s family estate, Saltburn. Oliver’s obsession with Felix and his family intensifies throughout the film, leading to a series of disturbing events.
The Climactic Reveal
In the film’s climax, Oliver’s true nature and the extent of his manipulation are revealed. It turns out that Oliver meticulously orchestrated his meeting with Felix at Oxford and had sinister intentions from the start. He murders Felix by poisoning his drink after being rejected in the estate’s hedge maze. This revelation is shocking, as it retroactively casts a dark shadow over Oliver’s seemingly innocent actions earlier in the film.
The Aftermath
Following Felix’s death, Oliver manipulates the situation to implicate Felix’s cousin Farleigh, leading to Farleigh’s expulsion from the estate and disinheritance. Oliver’s deception continues as he ingratiates himself further into the Catton family, ultimately leading to the death of Felix’s sister, Venetia, who he manipulates and then kills.
The Final Twist
Years later, Oliver encounters Felix’s mother, Elspeth, and manipulates her into bequeathing her entire fortune, including Saltburn, to him. On her deathbed, Oliver reveals his responsibility for the tragic events at Saltburn, confessing to the murders and his long-con deception. This final twist completes Oliver’s transformation from a seemingly troubled but harmless student to a cold, calculating sociopath.
The ending scene where he dances naked represents his evolution and transformation in full, he is not a Moth anymore like Venetia told him but full grown slimy killer snake.
Symbolism and Themes
The ending of “Saltburn” is symbolic of the themes of obsession, manipulation, and the corrupting influence of wealth and privilege. Oliver’s actions reflect a deep-seated desire to ascend the social ladder at any cost, highlighting the destructive nature of such ambitions.
Conclusion
“Saltburn” concludes with Oliver achieving his goal of owning Saltburn and the Catton fortune, but at the cost of multiple lives and his own humanity. The film’s ending serves as a commentary on the extremes to which people will go to fulfill their desires and the often unseen darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of charm and charisma.
