The movie Saltburn has been making waves in the film industry, thanks to its gripping plot and talented cast. Released in 2023, Saltburn is a drama that brings together a mix of rising stars and seasoned actors. The movie explores themes of privilege, obsession, and betrayal, set against the backdrop of a lavish British aristocratic estate.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the cast of Saltburn, highlighting the actors, their roles, and what makes their performances stand out in this highly anticipated film.
Overview of Saltburn
Before we get into the cast, it’s important to understand a bit about the movie itself. Saltburn, directed by Emerald Fennell, is set in England and focuses on the life of Oliver, a young outsider who becomes infatuated with a wealthy aristocratic family. The story revolves around Oliver’s experience at Saltburn, the grand estate of the family, and the darker side of wealth and privilege he uncovers.
The film has received praise for its stunning visuals, intriguing storyline, and complex characters, brought to life by a star-studded cast.
Lead Cast of Saltburn
1. Barry Keoghan as Oliver
Barry Keoghan plays the lead role of Oliver, the film’s central character. Oliver is a young man from a modest background who becomes enamored with the world of the rich and privileged. His character is complex—while he starts off as a sympathetic figure, his obsession with the Saltburn estate and its inhabitants leads him down a darker path.
Keoghan is known for his intense and versatile acting skills, having appeared in films such as The Killing of a Sacred Deer and Dunkirk. His portrayal of Oliver showcases his ability to balance vulnerability with a sense of mystery, making him the perfect fit for this role.
Keoghan’s performance in Saltburn has been described as both captivating and unsettling, as he delves into Oliver’s obsession with the aristocratic family. His ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from awe to desperation, has won him critical acclaim.
2. Jacob Elordi as Felix Catton
Jacob Elordi stars as Felix Catton, the wealthy and charismatic young man who invites Oliver into his world. Felix is the heir to the Saltburn estate and represents everything Oliver admires—charm, wealth, and a carefree lifestyle. However, beneath his polished exterior, Felix harbors his own secrets and insecurities.
Elordi gained international fame for his role as Noah Flynn in The Kissing Booth series, but Saltburn marks a departure from his usual roles. In this film, he takes on a more dramatic character, showcasing his range as an actor. His portrayal of Felix is both magnetic and layered, revealing the complexities of a young man born into privilege.
Elordi’s performance in Saltburn adds depth to Felix’s character, making him more than just a symbol of wealth. His chemistry with Keoghan’s Oliver is a central element of the film, creating tension and intrigue as the story unfolds.
3. Rosamund Pike as Lady Elspeth Catton
Rosamund Pike plays Lady Elspeth Catton, the matriarch of the Catton family. She is the embodiment of upper-class elegance, but beneath her poised exterior lies a woman deeply protective of her family and its legacy. Pike’s performance brings a sense of sophistication and subtle menace to the character, making her a standout in the cast.
Pike is no stranger to playing complex characters, having received an Academy Award nomination for her role in Gone Girl. In Saltburn, she once again proves her talent for portraying strong, enigmatic women. Lady Elspeth’s interactions with Oliver add another layer of tension to the film, as she becomes increasingly suspicious of his motives.
Pike’s portrayal of Lady Elspeth is both commanding and nuanced, making her a key figure in the unraveling drama at Saltburn. Her ability to convey authority while hinting at vulnerability gives the character depth and dimension.
4. Alison Oliver as Venetia Catton
Alison Oliver plays Venetia Catton, Felix’s sister and another key member of the aristocratic family. Venetia is beautiful, mysterious, and, like her brother, she leads a life of privilege. However, she is not as enamored with her family’s wealth as one might expect, and her character provides a contrast to Felix’s carefree attitude.
Oliver, a rising star in the acting world, brings a fresh energy to Venetia’s character. While Saltburn is one of her first major film roles, she manages to hold her own alongside more established actors. Venetia’s relationship with Oliver’s character adds complexity to the film’s dynamics, as she represents a more grounded perspective on wealth and privilege.
Venetia’s interactions with Oliver serve as some of the more poignant moments in the film, as they both struggle to find their place in the world of Saltburn. Oliver’s performance is both subtle and impactful, making Venetia a memorable character.
5. Richard E. Grant as Sir James Catton
Richard E. Grant plays Sir James Catton, the patriarch of the Catton family and owner of the Saltburn estate. Sir James is a figure of authority, representing the old-world charm and traditions of British aristocracy. Grant’s performance brings gravitas to the role, and his character serves as a symbol of the rigid structures that define the Catton family.
Grant, a veteran actor known for his roles in films like Withnail and I and Can You Ever Forgive Me?, delivers a masterful performance as Sir James. His portrayal of the family patriarch is both imposing and melancholic, reflecting the weight of maintaining the family’s legacy.
Sir James’ interactions with Oliver reveal the generational divide between the old aristocracy and the new, more opportunistic world that Oliver represents. Grant’s performance is a perfect blend of dignity and vulnerability, making him a key player in the film’s exploration of privilege.
Supporting Cast
In addition to the main cast, Saltburn features a talented supporting cast that adds depth to the story. While these characters may not be the focus, their roles are essential in building the world of Saltburn and adding layers to the central narrative.
6. Archie Madekwe as Duncan
Archie Madekwe plays Duncan, one of Felix’s friends who also comes from a wealthy background. Duncan’s character serves as a reflection of the idle rich, and his interactions with Oliver highlight the divide between those who are born into wealth and those who aspire to it.
Madekwe brings a sense of charm and humor to Duncan’s character, providing a contrast to the more intense dynamics between Oliver and Felix. His performance adds moments of levity to the film, while also underscoring the darker themes of privilege and entitlement.
7. Tom Burke as Simon
Tom Burke portrays Simon, a close family friend of the Cattons and an older, more jaded figure in the world of Saltburn. Simon’s character serves as a cautionary tale for Oliver, showing what happens when obsession with wealth and status goes too far.
Burke’s performance is subtle but impactful, providing a sense of foreboding as Oliver becomes more entrenched in the world of Saltburn. Simon’s role in the film adds depth to the story’s exploration of the dangers of ambition and envy.
Conclusion: A Talented Cast Brings Saltburn to Life
The cast of Saltburn plays a crucial role in bringing this dark, captivating story to life. With standout performances from Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike, and others, the film explores the complexities of wealth, privilege, and obsession. Each actor adds their own unique touch to the story, making Saltburn a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
Whether it’s Keoghan’s intense portrayal of Oliver or Pike’s commanding presence as Lady Elspeth, the cast of Saltburn delivers performances that elevate the film’s gripping narrative. If you’re a fan of character-driven dramas, Saltburn is a must-watch, and its talented cast is a big part of what makes it so compelling.