Saltburn is one of the highly anticipated films of the year, but when it got released in theaters, it had a mixed reception among audiences.
Some termed it brilliant, while others said that director Emerald Fennell had missed the mark with this class warfare movie.
However, there’s a third group of people who still want to know if Oliver killed Felix in the film. So did he?
Warning: This article contains spoilers for Saltburn
In Saltburn, Oliver Quick, played by Barry Keoghan, killed Felix Catton, played by Jacob Elordi. He murdered Felix by poisoning his drink when they argued in the center of the garden maze. Oliver killed him to get the Catton family’s fortune. He succeeded, too, because he ultimately gained control of the Saltburn estate.
Explained: Did Oliver Kill Felix In Saltburn?
“Saltburn,” directed by Emerald Fennell, the creative mind behind “Promising Young Woman,” delivers a gripping narrative of jealousy, hate, and a meticulously plotted murder.
The film introduces scholarship student Oliver Quick, portrayed by Barry Keoghan, who embarks on an ambitious quest to infiltrate the privileged world of Oxford’s elite.
The generous and wealthy Felix Catton, played by Jacob Elordi, facilitates Oliver’s entry into this world. A deep friendship forms, and Oliver is invited to spend the summer at Felix’s opulent country estate, Saltburn.
Joining them are Felix’s sister Venetia (Alison Oliver), close friend Farleigh (Archie Madekwe), and their parents, Elsbeth (Rosamund Pike) and James (Richard E. Grant).
Initially, the film portrays Oliver as an innocent newcomer, but it becomes evident that he harbors a hidden agenda.
A series of extravagant and decadent experiences unfold, but tensions rise as Felix discovers that Oliver had fabricated his family background. Yet, this falsehood pales in comparison to Oliver’s darkest deception.
As the relationship between Felix and Oliver deteriorates, a fateful birthday party at Saltburn takes a sinister turn. A heated argument between the two ensues in the garden maze, but the events that follow remain shrouded in mystery.
Tragedy strikes when Felix is found dead in the maze with an apparent overdose.
The aftermath includes a disturbing scene involving Oliver at Felix’s grave. Despite suspicions, Oliver remains a part of the Catton family’s life. However, their interactions take an eerie turn as secrets and fears mount.
The narrative takes an even darker twist when Venetia is discovered dead in a bathtub, with a razorblade found nearby. Despite the appearance of suicide, some unsettling doubts persist.
Oliver’s role transforms as he becomes a source of support for Elsbeth, Felix’s mother, and is offered a substantial sum to leave. It becomes apparent that this is not the first time the Catton family has used financial incentives to remove an unwanted presence.
The story shifts back to Oxford, where Elsbeth informs Oliver of James’ death. The bond between them strengthens in these trying times.
In a final, shocking revelation, Oliver’s long-term plan is unveiled. He orchestrated the entire series of events, from his initial encounter with Felix to the deaths of Felix and Venetia, all to gain access to the Catton family’s immense fortune. His cunning manipulations allowed him to seize control of Saltburn.
Oliver’s triumph culminates in a chilling scene where he dances naked to ‘Murder on the Dancefloor,’ embodying the sinister victory of his diabolical scheme.
“Saltburn” masterfully weaves a tale of calculated deceit and betrayal, showcasing the dark depths of human ambition.
Saltburn is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
What did you think of the ending of Saltburn? Was it convincing and satisfying for you? Or did it feel too shallow?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
