"Vanity Fair: Director Emerald Fennell of 'Saltburn' Describes a Lack of Nice People in Her Life"

Written by Chris Murphy

Director Emerald Fennell has a keen eye for beauty. As part of Vanity Fair's Notes on a Scene series, Fennell offers detailed insights on the crucial scene in Saltburn where character Oliver, played by Barry Keoghan, steps foot onto the lavish grounds of the British mansion for the first time, guided by Jacob Elordi's character Felix, setting up for an eventful summer they come to share.

The director begins by expressing her admiration for Keoghan's acting prowess. Keoghan, who portrays an ostracized Oxford student named Oliver Quick in Saltburn, captured Fennell's attention with his remarkable acting skills. According to Fennell, Keoghan manages to portray both a realistic character while also embodying an otherworldly feeling.

Fennell describes Oliver's entrance into Saltburn as the movie's most "gothic moment". This transition from the university to the estate symbolizes a key turning point in the narrative, says Fennell. At this point in the story, Oliver is met at Saltburn by a cool and aloof butler named Duncan, brought to life by actor Paul Rhys. According to Fennell, "Duncan is Saltburn."

Interestingly, the grand estate featured in the movie has never been depicted in any form of media. Fennell recalls that the house caught her attention during her tour due to something quirky about it. The priceless statues in the house were adorned with goofy hats, perfectly reflecting the nature of the film.

Fennell points out that Saltburn, having been set in 2006 and 2007, is technically a period movie and she strove to reflect this in the costumes. She references Felix's Livestrong bracelet as a key period detail and talks about his grooming which represents the time period.

She also shares an anecdote about the costume designers presenting a supposedly "lame" dress that she confesses she owns and wears regularly.

The audition by Jacob Elordi, recognized for his role in Euphoria, captured Fennell's attention. She was particularly impressed by his portrayal of a British aristocrat as a normal guy, defying stereotypical roles.

Discussing the Saltburn tour scene, Fennell wanted the audience to appreciate not just the beauty of the house, but also pay attention to Felix. She emphasizes that even though the house is spectacular, the focus should still be on Felix.