Saltburn & Da Vinci Code: Prime Target Review

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Post on Jan 23, 2025

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Saltburn & Da Vinci Code: Prime Target Review - A Gripping Comparison

Netflix's Saltburn and Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code might seem worlds apart – one a visually stunning, darkly comedic drama; the other a globe-trotting thriller steeped in religious conspiracy. However, a closer look reveals intriguing parallels, particularly in their depiction of power, privilege, and the intoxicating allure of the forbidden. This review will delve into both, comparing their approaches to suspense, character development, and their ultimately unsettling conclusions.

The Allure of the Elite: Power Dynamics and Hidden Agendas

Both Saltburn and The Da Vinci Code center on a world of immense privilege and carefully guarded secrets. In Saltburn, Oliver Quick's desperate pursuit of acceptance within the aristocratic Saltburn family exposes a hidden underbelly of depravity and manipulation. The seemingly idyllic world is a façade masking disturbing power dynamics and a culture of entitlement. Similarly, The Da Vinci Code unveils a clandestine society safeguarding a centuries-old secret, wielding immense influence from the shadows. Both narratives highlight the intoxicating power that wealth and social standing afford, and the lengths some will go to maintain it.

The Protagonist's Journey: From Outsider to Conspirator

Both protagonists, Oliver in Saltburn and Robert Langdon in The Da Vinci Code, are initially outsiders thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Oliver's yearning for belonging leads him down a dark path, while Langdon's academic expertise becomes integral to uncovering a vast conspiracy. Their journeys, while vastly different in setting and scope, share a common thread: the gradual unraveling of a carefully constructed reality, revealing the shocking truth behind the façade of power.

Suspense and Revelation: Unraveling the Mysteries

While their methods differ significantly, both Saltburn and The Da Vinci Code masterfully build suspense. Saltburn employs a slow burn, meticulously layering clues and hinting at the underlying darkness. The unsettling atmosphere and unpredictable plot twists keep the viewer constantly on edge. The Da Vinci Code, on the other hand, employs a fast-paced, action-packed narrative, relying on constant revelations and near-death escapes to maintain its thrilling momentum.

Comparing the Climaxes: Shock and Unsettling Aftermath

Both narratives deliver powerful climaxes, although their impact differs considerably. Saltburn's shocking finale leaves the viewer reeling from the implications of Oliver's actions and the unsettling nature of the Saltburn family's depravity. The lingering sense of unease is a testament to the film's effectiveness. The Da Vinci Code's climax, while dramatic, ultimately focuses on the revelation of a historical secret, leaving a more intellectual impact.

Beyond the Surface: Themes of Obsession and Corruption

Both Saltburn and The Da Vinci Code explore deeper themes of obsession, corruption, and the abuse of power. Oliver's obsessive pursuit of Lord Osgood's affection reveals a desperate need for validation and belonging, spiraling into self-destructive behavior. Similarly, the powerful figures in The Da Vinci Code are driven by the desire to control the narrative of history, manipulating religion and institutions to maintain their power.

The Power of Symbolism: Layered Meanings and Interpretation

Both works utilize symbolism effectively to enhance their narrative impact. Saltburn's opulent settings and carefully choreographed scenes are layered with meaning, hinting at the characters' inner turmoil and the decadence of their world. Similarly, The Da Vinci Code cleverly uses religious symbolism to construct its plot and provide a framework for its underlying conspiracy.

Conclusion: Two Sides of the Same Coin?

While vastly different in tone and style, Saltburn and The Da Vinci Code share a surprising amount of thematic overlap. Both explore the intoxicating allure of power, the dark side of privilege, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets. They offer compelling narratives, albeit through vastly different lenses, leaving the audience to ponder the unsettling truths they reveal about human nature and the corrosive power of unchecked ambition. Ultimately, both remain gripping and thought-provoking explorations of human darkness, each executed with a distinct style and leaving a lasting impression.