Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn has become a cinematic talking point, not just for its artistic direction but also for its intensely explicit scenes that have left audiences both captivated and deeply uncomfortable. Remember that infamous bathwater scene? Or the equally discussed graveyard encounter? These moments are precisely why families are pausing before hitting play for a casual movie night. If you’re a parent wondering whether Saltburn is suitable for viewing with your family, you’re in the right place. This guide will navigate you through the film’s mature content, helping you make an informed decision.
Saltburn has quickly earned a reputation for its boundary-pushing scenes. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting graphic sexual content, nudity, and strong language. One of the most talked-about sequences involves Barry Keoghan’s character, Oliver Quick, engaging in a shocking act with bathwater, immediately following Jacob Elordi’s character, Felix Catton. This scene alone caused visible discomfort for many viewers, as highlighted in a recent article detailing a family’s viewing experience. Another scene that has sparked considerable discussion is set in a graveyard, featuring explicit and disturbing content. These are not isolated incidents; the film is punctuated with moments designed to provoke and challenge viewers, making it significantly different from typical family-friendly fare.
Beyond these specific scenes, Saltburn explores themes of obsession, class, and desire through a distinctly adult lens. The narrative is rich with complex relationships and morally ambiguous characters, which, while compelling for mature audiences, might be too intense or inappropriate for younger viewers or family settings aiming for light entertainment. The film’s brilliance lies in its ability to be both alluring and deeply unsettling, a duality that contributes to its controversial yet captivating nature.
To put Saltburn‘s content into perspective, it’s helpful to recall other films that have caused similar “awkward family movie night” moments. The original article humorously mentions Bad Santa with its unexpectedly explicit scene involving Billy Bob Thornton and Lauren Graham, catching parents off guard with its raunchy humor. Similarly, There’s Something About Mary is infamous for its semen-as-hair-gel scene, a moment of shock that redefined cringe comedy for many families. Even classic films like Women in Love, with its scandalous nude wrestling scene from 1969, caused discomfort for viewers decades ago. Saltburn operates on a similar level, if not more intensely, pushing boundaries of what’s considered acceptable or comfortable for family viewing.
Cameron Diaz iconic hair style in ‘There’s Something About Mary’, a movie known for awkward family viewing moments.
So, who is Saltburn actually for? Primarily, Saltburn is tailored for adult audiences who appreciate dark comedies, psychological thrillers, and films that deliberately challenge societal norms and comfort levels. It’s a film that sparks conversation and debate, ideal for viewers who enjoy dissecting complex narratives and mature themes. However, for family viewing, especially with younger teenagers or viewers sensitive to graphic content, Saltburn is likely unsuitable. Parents should consider the maturity level of their family members and their tolerance for explicit sexual content and disturbing scenes.
If you are still considering watching Saltburn, or perhaps parts of it are of interest, here are a few tips for navigating mature content with your family:
- Pre-screening is Key: The most responsible step is to watch Saltburn yourself beforehand. This allows you to identify specific scenes that might be problematic or spark discomfort within your family.
- Open Communication: If you decide to proceed, initiate an open conversation with your family before pressing play. Explain that the film contains mature themes and explicit content. Setting expectations can help mitigate shock and awkwardness.
- Pause and Discuss: During viewing, don’t hesitate to pause if a scene is particularly intense or uncomfortable. Use this as an opportunity to discuss what you’ve watched, answer questions, and gauge everyone’s comfort levels.
- It’s Okay to Turn It Off: Remember, you are in control of your viewing experience. If Saltburn becomes too much for anyone in your family, it’s perfectly acceptable to turn it off. Your family’s comfort and well-being are more important than finishing a film.
In conclusion, Saltburn is undoubtedly a film that demands attention, but it’s crucial for parents to be aware of its explicit content before considering it for family movie night. While it can be a compelling cinematic experience for mature audiences, its graphic nature and mature themes make it a risky choice for family viewing. By understanding the film’s content and considering your family’s sensitivities, you can make an informed decision and ensure your movie nights remain enjoyable and appropriate for everyone involved. Perhaps for this festive season, sticking to a classic Christmas movie might be a less fraught, and equally bonding, experience!
