21.06.2024
What "Saltburn" gets right and wrong about going to Oxford
"Saltburn" offers a visually stunning and dramatically intense portrayal of life at Oxford University, capturing some truths while indulging in artistic exaggeration.

By Tunku Sophia
Photo: Courtesy of Prime Video
The allure of Oxford University, with its rich history and storied traditions, has long captivated filmmakers. "Saltburn," a film released on Amazon Prime Video in December 2023 (on which it became one of the most-streamed films), depicted life at this prestigious institution, aims to blend the romanticism of Oxford with the dark undertones of psychological thriller. Set in Oxford and Northamptonshire, it focuses on a student at Oxford who becomes fixated with a popular, aristocratic fellow student, who later invites him to spend the summer at his eccentric family's estate.
But how accurately does it capture the essence of being an Oxford student? Here, we dissect the film's portrayal, separating fact from fiction.
What "Saltburn" Gets Right
The Awe-Inspiring Architecture
"Saltburn" does justice to Oxford's breathtaking architecture. The film's sweeping shots of ancient colleges, libraries, and quads evoke a sense of grandeur and history that is quintessentially Oxford. These iconic settings, such as the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library, are meticulously represented, offering viewers a glimpse into the daily visual splendor that Oxford students experience.
The Intense Academic Environment
The film accurately portrays the high-pressure academic environment that defines Oxford. Tutorials, the hallmark of an Oxford education, are depicted with a sense of rigor and intellectual challenge. The relentless pursuit of knowledge and the expectation to engage deeply with one's subject are well-captured, highlighting the demanding nature of an Oxford education.
Traditional Social Rituals