BBC iPlayer has discreetly made the provocative British film Saltburn available for free streaming in the UK, reigniting discussions about its boundary-pushing content and cultural impact. Originally released on Amazon Prime Video in December 2023, the dark comedy thriller quickly became one of the platform's most-watched titles, despite—or perhaps because of—its reputation for shocking audiences.
A Film That Divided Viewers and Critics Alike
Directed and written by Emerald Fennell, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind Promising Young Woman, Saltburn follows Oliver Quick, a financially struggling Oxford student played by Barry Keoghan. He becomes entangled with the wealthy and charismatic Felix Catton, portrayed by Jacob Elordi, who invites him to spend a summer at his family's sprawling estate. The ensemble cast includes Rosamund Pike, Richard E. Grant, Alison Oliver, Archie Madekwe, and Carey Mulligan, delivering performances that explore themes of class, desire, and deception.
Explicit Scenes Spark Family Viewing Warnings
The film's release was notably marked by widespread social media warnings against watching it with family members, especially during the holiday season. Viewers took to platforms like X to share their experiences, with many describing awkward and uncomfortable moments when viewing with parents. Memorable scenes that contributed to this reaction include Oliver drinking bathwater, handling bodily fluids, and engaging in highly sexualised sequences, including one in a cemetery.
Despite the controversy, Saltburn received critical acclaim for its bold storytelling and performances. Reviews praised it as a "savage spellbinder" and a "provocative masterpiece," with particular accolades for Keoghan's career-best portrayal. The film's unflinching approach to extreme themes was defended by Fennell, who emphasised that every actor was fully committed and comfortable with the material.
Awards and Cultural Resurgence
Saltburn earned nominations for two Golden Globe Awards and five BAFTA awards, cementing its status in the awards circuit. Additionally, the film sparked a resurgence for Sophie Ellis-Bextor's 2001 hit Murder on the Dancefloor, which features prominently in the finale. The song re-entered the UK Singles Chart at number eight, amassing over 1.5 million streams on Spotify on New Year's Eve alone.
With its addition to BBC iPlayer, a new audience can now experience the film's twists and turns, ensuring that the debates around its content and legacy continue to evolve.
