NEW YORK, February 11, 2026 – Emerald Fennell, the filmmaker behind the divisive yet undeniably impactful ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the recently released ‘Saltburn,’ aims for shock value, but ultimately struggles to deliver a truly resonant cinematic experience, even with a cast boasting the wattage of Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. The question of whether Fennell can consistently ignite the screen with provocative storytelling remains open.
A Tinderbox of Kinks That Doesn’t Quite Catch
The latest from Emerald Fennell relies on star power and edgy themes, but lacks the narrative punch of her earlier work.
- Fennell’s attempts at provocation feel somewhat forced in ‘Saltburn.’
- Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi deliver performances, but are hampered by the script.
- The film explores themes of class, desire, and obsession with varying degrees of success.
The film, ‘Saltburn,’ attempts to dissect the complexities of class and desire, but often feels more interested in showcasing a tinderbox of kinks than in genuinely exploring the psychological depths of its characters. This isn’t to say the film is devoid of merit; the performances are committed, and the visual style is undeniably striking.
The Weight of Expectation
Fennell burst onto the scene with ‘Promising Young Woman,’ a film that sparked crucial conversations and earned her an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. That success created a significant weight of expectation for her follow-up, and ‘Saltburn’ appears to be a deliberate attempt to double down on the provocative elements that defined her earlier work. However, where ‘Promising Young Woman’ felt sharply focused and emotionally resonant, ‘Saltburn’ often meanders, losing its way in a labyrinth of stylistic flourishes and increasingly outlandish scenarios.
Robbie and Elordi, two of the most sought-after actors of their generation, bring their considerable charisma to the screen. However, even their talents can’t fully salvage a script that often feels more interested in pushing boundaries than in developing compelling characters. The supporting cast delivers solid performances, but they are largely relegated to serving as props in Fennell’s increasingly elaborate game of cinematic one-upmanship.
A Style Over Substance Debate
Ultimately, ‘Saltburn’ feels like a missed opportunity. While Fennell clearly possesses a distinctive visual style and a willingness to tackle challenging themes, this latest effort lacks the narrative coherence and emotional depth that made ‘Promising Young Woman’ so impactful. The film’s provocative elements feel less like insightful commentary and more like attention-grabbing stunts, leaving the audience feeling somewhat empty and unsatisfied.
