The Saltburn Effect and the Thriving Era of Weird Movie Consumption
What Constitutes Weird Films?
What defines ‘weird’ in the realm of cinema is a multifaceted concept, encompassing a diverse array of narratives and styles. At its core, weird movies defy conventional storytelling and cinematic norms, offering audiences experiences that diverge from the mainstream. They often venture into unconventional territories, embracing eccentric characters, surreal settings, and abstract plotlines that challenge viewers’ perceptions.
Weird films intrigue me, precisely because they deviate from the familiar formulas that dominate popular cinema. They eschew predictable plot structures and linear storytelling in favour of ambiguity, symbolism, and avant-garde techniques. Consider, for instance, the juxtaposition between blockbuster epics like ‘Avengers: Endgame’ and enigmatic masterpieces such as ‘The Lighthouse.’
In ‘The Lighthouse,’ director Robert Eggers crafts a haunting tale set against the desolate backdrop of a remote island, exploring themes of isolation and madness with a surrealistic lens. The film’s stark black-and-white cinematography and mesmerising performances elevate it into the realm of cinematic oddity, leaving audiences mesmerised yet unsettled.
Weird films, in essence, invite viewers to embrace the unknown, challenging them to decipher intricate narratives and interpret abstract symbolism. They push the boundaries of storytelling, inviting us to confront the complexities of human experience in all its enigmatic glory.”
What is the Saltburn-effect?
“Saltburn” encapsulates a cinematic exploration of the intricate dynamics of wealth and privilege, often associated with the ‘eat the rich’ theme. With its captivating production design and cinematography, the film immerses viewers in a visually stunning narrative landscape. The story revolves around Oliver, a troubled young man whose path crosses with Felix, a scion of an affluent family, during their time at Oxford University.
Driven by envy and a desire for a life of opulence, Oliver becomes ensnared in a web of obsession, fixating on Felix’s lifestyle, wealth, and family. As the narrative unfolds, Oliver’s fixation takes on increasingly grotesque dimensions, blurring the lines between admiration and derangement. While certain scenes in the film may provoke divisiveness among cinephiles, particularly for their graphic and sexually explicit content, they nonetheless captivate audiences, sparking fervent discussions and debate.
In the realm of contemporary cinema, “Saltburn” has transcended traditional boundaries, leveraging its provocative themes and arresting visuals to permeate popular culture. Although the audience’s reaction to certain scenes were divisive, social media platforms like TikTok have become conduits for the film’s viral content, such as recreating iconic scenes such as Oliver’s mesmerising dance sequence along the hallway of the Saltburn mansion.
Besides “Saltburn,” there are several other films that have similarly challenged traditional cinema and generated a significant cultural impact. Two notable examples are “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” both directed by Ari Aster. These films, like “Saltburn,” delve into unconventional themes and narratives, pushing the boundaries of audience expectations and provoking strong reactions.
“Hereditary” is celebrated for its gripping storyline, standout performances, and Ari Aster’s visionary direction. The film explores themes of family trauma, grief, and the occult, offering a chilling and psychologically intense viewing experience. Its unsettling atmosphere and shocking plot twists have cemented its status as a modern horror classic.
Similarly, “Midsommar” ventures into the realm of folk horror, immersing audiences in the eerie rituals of a Swedish commune. With its striking visuals, immersive world-building, and thought-provoking themes, the film captivated audiences and divided critics. Some praised its boldness and originality, while others found its graphic content and unsettling imagery disturbing.
As new generations continue to embrace weird and unconventional cinema, films like “Get Out” and “The Menu” offer timely commentary on the intersection of wealth, power, and morality. Through their provocative storytelling and incisive social critique, they challenge audiences to question the status quo and strive for a more just and equitable society. In doing so, they exemplify the transformative potential of cinema to provoke thought, inspire change, and challenge the boundaries of conventional storytelling.
In an era saturated with mainstream entertainment, younger audiences are drawn to films offering fresh perspectives and unconventional storytelling. These films defy traditional narrative structures and stylistic norms, providing immersive and thought-provoking experiences that challenge expectations and broaden horizons.
Rejecting conformity, the new generation values individuality and authenticity, gravitating towards films like “the Lighthouse” that embrace experimentation and risk-taking. These movies eschew conventional storytelling conventions in favour of bold and innovative approaches that celebrate artistic freedom and creative expression.
What sets “Saltburn” apart is its ability to spark word-of-mouth discussion for unconventional reasons. Instead of conversations revolving around intricate plot details, they often begin with phrases like, “Have you seen ‘Saltburn?’ You know, the movie where [insert shocking event] happens.” It’s a cinematic experience that thrives on its ability to intrigue and evoke strong reactions, breaking the chain of traditional film favourites.
Why do unconventional narrative films often outshine their conventional counterparts?
The post-Endgame era of Marvel movies has revealed a critical issue. From 2008 until the release of the fourth Avengers instalment in 2019, the interconnected narratives and epic crossovers felt groundbreaking. It seemed like every storyline was building towards something monumental — the gradual unveiling of Thanos, the formidable antagonist looming over the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), generated palpable suspense and anticipation. The culmination of this narrative arc resulted in unforgettable scenes of collective euphoria captured in reaction videos that circulated widely on platforms like YouTube, marking the culmination of a decade-long journey for fans.
During this period, despite the plethora of content, there was a discernible endgame that lent purpose to every narrative twist and turn. However, in the four years since Endgame, the Marvel universe has expanded into a labyrinth of complexity, introducing concepts like the multiverse without a clear sense of direction. Many of the subsequent stories, such as Eternals, have struggled with logical inconsistencies, introducing larger-than-life characters and events that feel disconnected from the overarching narrative. Instead, they serve primarily as vehicles to introduce new characters or provide fleeting moments of nostalgia through familiar cameos.
While it would be inaccurate to suggest that audiences are tired of comic book movies — given the continued box office success of Marvel staples — the sense of eventfulness and anticipation has waned. Instead of captivating experiences, recent Marvel releases have felt like mere spectacles leading to more spectacles, with Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania standing out as a prime example of uninspired filler content designed solely to set up the next big threat, Kang.
The experience of watching a Marvel movie should never feel like a chore, yet the current state of affairs finds audiences feeling more burdened than entertained. What was once an opportunity for escapism has become a series of laborious tasks, signalling a need for the Marvel universe to reignite its spark and recapture the sense of wonder that defined its earlier successes.
Why it’s important to embrace diverse films
Having a diverse film taste is not just about entertainment; it’s about embracing a wide array of storytelling techniques, narrative styles, and thematic explorations that enrich our understanding of the world and ourselves. By engaging with diverse films, individuals open themselves up to new perspectives and experiences that broaden their intellectual horizons and encourage critical thinking and analysis.
One of the key benefits of diverse film taste is its ability to foster cultural understanding. Films from different genres, countries, and perspectives provide valuable insights into diverse cultures, histories, and social issues. They allow audiences to immerse themselves in unfamiliar worlds, fostering empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the richness and complexity of the human experience. For instance, movies like “The Lighthouse,” “Birdman,” and “Parasite” challenge traditional norms and push the boundaries of cinematic expression, inviting viewers to appreciate the artistry and creativity inherent in unconventional storytelling.
Moreover, diverse films often serve as vehicles for thought-provoking social commentary. Many unconventional films critique prevalent social issues such as wealth and privilege, inviting audiences to engage in dialogue and reflection on important societal issues. By confronting uncomfortable truths and challenging established norms, these films encourage greater awareness and activism, driving positive social change.
Furthermore, supporting diverse films contributes to cultural representation and inclusivity in the film industry. By embracing movies from underrepresented voices and backgrounds, audiences help amplify diverse perspectives and narratives, fostering a more inclusive and equitable cinematic landscape. This not only enriches the film industry but also ensures that a broader range of stories and experiences are shared and celebrated on screen.
In essence, having a diverse film taste is about more than just entertainment — it’s about embracing the richness and diversity of the human experience. By exploring films from different genres, countries, and perspectives, individuals can broaden their horizons, deepen their understanding of the world, and become more empathetic and informed global citizens.
[Written By: Harshaall Medha Naidu, Edited By: Adryna Chin]
