How Did Each Member Of The Family Pass Away In Saltburn?

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In the final act of “Saltburn”, Oliver kills every last member of the Catton family to seize control of their fortune and property. The darkly comedic narrative of the film ends on a dark note with multiple character deaths, each strategically contributing to a character’s masterful plan. Oliver’s efforts to manipulate his way into the Catton family and their wealth, especially the Saltburn Estate, lead to the deaths of Felix and his sister, Venetia. Oliver breaks down crying at Felix’s grave, and as the minutes pass, he slowly removes his clothes and thrusts against the burial before joining the family at the reception.

In its climactic denouement, Saltburn shows each of the Cattons die, one-by-one, often at the hand of Oliver Quick. Some slightly confusing editing makes it hard to understand how these deaths occurred. However, the film leaves several questions and mysteries surrounding Ollie, the Saltburn estate, and the Catton family altogether.

Oliver (Barry Keoghan) has succeeded in worming his way into the estate, but there are still lingering questions. A flashback montage shows how Oliver had meticulously planned most of these tragedies so he could inherit Saltburn. Felix drank from the champagne that Oliver gave him, which Oliver had poisoned. Venetia committed suicide after Oliver left razors on the side of her bathtub, well aware of her mental state as she was.

After making his way back into Saltburn, Felix’s death is officially labeled an accidental overdose, which Oliver pins on Farleigh Start, Felix’s cousin. The death of Felix ensures that Victims, such as Felix Catton’s grandfather and dog, are not suspicious. It is later revealed that Oliver spiked the bottle of champagne he gave to Felix when they were in the bathtub.

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📹 Every Death In Saltburn Explained: (Why It Happened?)

Saltburn is a black comedy psychological drama where multiple deaths occur within the narrative, all playing a crucial role in …


How Did The Husband Die In Saltburn
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Did The Husband Die In Saltburn?

In Emerald Fennell's psychological drama "Saltburn," Oliver Quick orchestrates the death of Felix by giving him a poisoned champagne bottle following a heated argument in the maze. Felix's lifeless body is later found, and his death is attributed to an accidental overdose. Oliver's disturbing obsession deepens as he displays his derangement by engaging in lewd acts at Felix's grave after his funeral. Following the death of Lady Venetia Catton, James demands Oliver leave Saltburn, but Oliver refuses until bribed.

After a time jump, Oliver inherits Saltburn after the Cattons' deaths. The film explores multiple character deaths, questioning Oliver's involvement in each, particularly Felix's and Venetia's. Despite varying interpretations, it becomes evident that Oliver's manipulation led to both Felix’s demise and contributes indirectly to Venetia's suicide through the provision of razor blades amidst her mental health struggles. The narrative culminates in Oliver's ambiguous position, having committed murders and fully aware of the impending danger from his aristocratic acquaintances.

As the plot unravels, Oliver grapples with his dark legacy, ultimately resulting in a chilling resolution that leaves viewers questioning the true extent of his actions and the fallout from his ruthless ambition.

How Does Felix Die In Saltburn
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How Does Felix Die In Saltburn?

Felix's death is ruled an accidental overdose, with Oliver implicating Felix's cousin, Farleigh Start. This incident solidifies Oliver's position at Saltburn as Felix can no longer expose him. Shortly after, Venetia Catton, Felix's sister, is found dead in a bathtub, furthering the tragedy surrounding the Catton family. In the series "Saltburn," Felix dies after Oliver poisons a champagne bottle, which he drinks from to avoid suspicion before giving it to Felix.

When confronted about lies regarding his family, Felix succumbs to a suspected drug overdose. As Oliver manipulates events from the shadows, Felix's ultimate ultimatum forces Oliver's malicious actions. Following Felix's death, his family distances themselves from Farleigh, exacerbating the family's turmoil.

Oliver, obsessed with the Catton family's lifestyle, orchestrates Felix's demise to secure his future. He revels in the chaos, leading to the tragic ends of multiple characters, including the revelation of the poison's role in Felix’s death. At Felix's funeral, a haunting moment occurs as Oliver, hidden in grief, lays atop the grave, suggesting deep-seated turmoil beneath his seemingly composed facade.

Compounding the narrative, Oliver confesses to Elspeth on her deathbed about his orchestration of chaos, including Felix's poisoning and the subsequent tragedies. His vengeful pursuit reflects his distorted love for Felix, revealing a dark commentary on obsession and the destructive nature of wealth. Ultimately, the story presents a web of deceit, manipulation, and fatal consequences surrounding Oliver's actions at Saltburn.

What Happened To The Mum In Saltburn
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What Happened To The Mum In Saltburn?

In "Saltburn," Venetia discovers that Oliver is not who he appears to be and confronts him about Felix's death. Tragically, she is found dead the next day in the bathtub, which is ruled a suicide. Their mother, Elspeth, rekindles her relationship with Oliver after a chance encounter, seeking comfort in the wake of her daughters' deaths. Elspeth, increasingly ill, signs over Saltburn to Oliver. Despite James asking Oliver to leave, he refuses until bribed to do so.

Pamela, a friend of Elspeth, also dies under mysterious circumstances, similarly ruled a suicide. It's later revealed that Oliver poisoned Felix, and the narrative unravels with violent twists, suggesting a cycle of manipulation and murder surrounding Oliver.

After Venetia's confrontation and subsequent death, Elspeth becomes closer to Oliver, filling the void left by her daughters. Amid a lavish party, Felix confronts Oliver about their family's dark history and eventually orders him to leave. However, Oliver's manipulation leads to further tragic outcomes. The climax exposes Oliver's underlying malevolence, as he is seen crying over Felix's grave post-murder.

By the end, the deaths appear intertwined with Oliver's actions, leaving much of the narrative shrouded in deceit and emotional turmoil. As the summer wanes, the true nature of these deaths emerges, painting Oliver as the architect of their demise, albeit subtly concealed under layers of family tragedy and mental distress.

How Did The Sister Die In Saltburn
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How Did The Sister Die In Saltburn?

After Felix's funeral, Elspeth urges Oliver to stay longer at Saltburn. Venetia, upset and distressed, blames Oliver for her family's collapse. He attempts to seduce her, but she pushes him away. Tragically, Venetia is later found dead in the bathtub, having apparently taken her own life by slitting her wrists, which follows the shocking death of her brother. This incident raises suspicions around Oliver, who develops an obsession with Felix. Venetia's history of mental health issues complicates the narrative of her suicide, particularly after the deaths of Felix, their father Sir James, and ultimately Elspeth.

The events escalate as Oliver's unsettling actions include slurping Felix's bathwater and committing horrific acts, including verbally manipulating Venetia to the brink of madness. Despite doubts about Oliver's involvement, Venetia's tragic end seems to solidify a narrative of despair. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Elspeth, who collapses into a coma, is connected to Oliver's machinations.

His manipulations culminate in the catastrophic unraveling of the Catton family, suggesting he played a significant role in both Felix and Venetia's fates. Ultimately, the film portrays a twisted tale of obsession, tragedy, and dark consequences within a wealthy family’s disintegration at Saltburn.

How Did Oliver Get Into Saltburn
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How Did Oliver Get Into Saltburn?

Oliver Quick's intricate lies about his background play a pivotal role in manipulating his way into Felix Catton's life and ultimately the luxurious Saltburn estate. Initially, a stroke of luck leads to a friendship between Oliver and Felix, culminating in an invitation to Saltburn at the school year's end. However, Oliver's web of deceit is uncovered when Felix learns the truth about Oliver's family struggles. This revelation shatters their friendship, prompting Oliver to resort to extreme measures, including Felix's demise, to secure his position in Saltburn.

The narrative intricately delves into Oliver's obsessive nature towards Felix, revealing layers of manipulation and emotional turmoil. Elsbeth, Felix's mother, shows an unsettling fascination with Oliver, hinting at underlying tensions and jealousy. After Sir James Catton's death, Oliver revisits his grand plan, leading to the shocking moment in the film when it's disclosed that he poisoned Felix and manipulated circumstances to inherit Saltburn.

As the film progresses, Oliver's desire for the extravagant lifestyle attracts him deeper into the Catton family's world, yet his growing attachment reveals their waning interest in him. Ultimately, Oliver's journey culminates in a disturbing climax where he kills Elsbeth and celebrates his takeover of Saltburn in a chilling naked dance, solidifying the dark themes of obsession and moral decay that permeate "Saltburn."

How Did Pamela Die In Saltburn
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How Did Pamela Die In Saltburn?

After Pamela leaves Saltburn, the Cattons learn of her mysterious death, ruled an apparent suicide but possibly staged as a murder. This open-ended mystery leaves speculation about Oliver Quick's involvement, especially since his reaction to the news suggests relief rather than shock. The timing is notable; Pamela's demise follows shortly after her departure from Saltburn, raising questions about Oliver's previous characterization of her as a liar. This connection implies that leaving Saltburn equates to a metaphorical death. Furthermore, Pamela's situation is aggravated by her dangerous Russian boyfriend, hinting at potential foul play. Oliver’s sinister trajectory culminates in the shocking murder of Elspeth, an act that seals his fate within the narrative. The film's structure involves numerous shocking deaths, enhancing Oliver's ultimate victory as he revels in it during a dance. The parallels drawn between Pamela's case and classic literature, like Wuthering Heights, underscore the tragic dimensions of her fate. As the Cattons react to her death with indifference, several unresolved mysteries remain, weaving a complex web around Oliver, the estate, and the Catton family. Ultimately, the narrative of Saltburn invites intrigue and speculation, leaving the audience questioning the true nature of events.

How Did Felix And Venetia Die In Saltburn
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How Did Felix And Venetia Die In Saltburn?

In a series of flashbacks, it becomes clear that Oliver has orchestrated several tragic events to secure his inheritance of Saltburn. He poisoned Felix by serving him tainted champagne, leading to Felix's apparent overdose. Venetia, Felix’s sister, falls into a deep mental collapse after her brother's shocking death. Understanding her fragile mental state, Oliver left razors by her bathtub, which ultimately drives Venetia to commit suicide.

This string of tragedies showcases Oliver's unhealthy obsession with Felix and his manipulative nature. Initially, Felix is dismissive of Oliver, which prompts Oliver to further his machinations. After Felix's death, the Catton family disowns Oliver as it is revealed he dealt cocaine at his birthday party. Although Venetia initially seemed warm towards Oliver, her demeanor changes drastically when she confronts him about his role in Felix's demise, plunging her into despair.

The morning after Venetia's death is marked by the grim discovery of her body, reinforcing Oliver's culpability, as he was fully aware of her struggles. Although her death appears self-inflicted, Oliver's manipulations directly led her to this point. Ultimately, both Felix and Venetia's tragic endings stem from Oliver's deep-seated need for control, leaving unanswered questions regarding Saltburn's future ownership amid the ensuing chaos.

What Happens In The Last 20 Minutes Of 'Saltburn'
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What Happens In The Last 20 Minutes Of 'Saltburn'?

In the final 20 minutes of 'Saltburn,' the narrative reaches an intense climax filled with multiple deaths, a significant plot twist, and a provocative nude dance scene. Initially, the abrupt death of Felix seems like an overdose or accident, but it is ultimately revealed that Ollie, played by Barry Keoghan, murdered him after secretly tampering with his drink. As the plot unfolds, Ollie displays increasingly sinister behavior. The climax occurs during a birthday party for Oliver at Saltburn, which is themed around "A Midsummer Night's Dream," leading to increasingly dark events.

The shocking reveal comes when Oliver removes Lady Elspeth's ventilator, watching her struggle for breath until the scene abruptly shifts to her funeral, illustrating the depths of his malevolence. The ending provokes strong reactions as it underscores Oliver's true intentions throughout the film—his obsession with Felix and the opulent lifestyle at Saltburn. The film concludes with a startling naked dance by Oliver to "Murder on the Dancefloor," prompting laughter from the audience yet signifying a twisted celebration of his triumph. Overall, 'Saltburn's' finale radicalizes the narrative, sparking debates about its implications and leaving viewers questioning the dynamics of power and ambition.

How Does Elspeth Die In Saltburn
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How Does Elspeth Die In Saltburn?

Elspeth Catton's demise is shrouded in mystery and manipulation by Oliver, who, after forming a bond with her during her illness, ultimately claims control of her family estate, Saltburn. Elspeth, initially healthy when they first met, quickly deteriorates, leading to speculation that Oliver may have accelerated her decline or even poisoned her. As she lies on her deathbed, supported only by life-support, Oliver reveals his true intentions, manipulating Elspeth into signing over Saltburn to him before she becomes comatose.

In a chilling twist, Oliver pulls out Elspeth's breathing tube, a calculated act that results in her suffocation and eventual death. This act is both the culmination of his deceit and a means to solidify his power over the estate. The narrative suggests that Elspeth had been legally maneuvered into transferring her assets to Oliver amidst her declining health, all while he narrated their tumultuous relationship to her—seemingly taunting her in her helpless state.

As Oliver takes control of Saltburn, Elspeth’s long illness raises questions about the full extent of his involvement in her suffering. After the death of Sir James and a series of accidents surrounding Elspeth, the film hints that Oliver’s return to her life was opportunistic, culminating in a sinister act that ultimately seals her fate.

What Happens When Oliver Dies In Saltburn
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What Happens When Oliver Dies In Saltburn?

Oliver's return to Saltburn is catalyzed by a series of orchestrated events following the death of Sir James Catton. He encounters Lady Elspeth Catton at a coffee shop, a meeting that seems accidental but is likely manipulated by him. Oliver frames the death of Venetia, the last living Catton heir, as a suicide, paving his path to inheriting the estate. In a pivotal scene, he finds Venetia in the bath after a day of drinking. Elspeth, having not turned against Oliver like the rest of her family, welcomes him back into her life, ultimately leading to her tragic demise.

Oliver's narrative voice guides the audience as he reveals his manipulations throughout the film. In the climactic moment, he removes Elspeth's ventilator, leading to her death, which transitions to her funeral. Felix, his love interest, is also not spared; Oliver poisons him, showcasing his ruthless ambition. The film concludes with Oliver's total deception of the Catton family culminating in their deaths and his inheritance of Saltburn.

As he dances naked in celebration of his victory, the extent of his deceit and obsession with Felix's family becomes horrifyingly clear, sealing Oliver’s dark transformation into the new owner of Saltburn.

How Did Pamela Die From Saltburn
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Did Pamela Die From Saltburn?

Pamela's death, ruled an apparent suicide, raises suspicions of murder staged to appear self-inflicted. Elspeth reveals Pamela sought refuge from a dangerous Russian billionaire she encountered in rehab. After Pamela departs from Saltburn, the Cattons are informed of her mysterious demise. Oliver Quick's reaction to the news suggests he feels relief rather than shock, hinting at his complicity. By undermining Pamela's safety—accusing Elspeth of lying—he indirectly exposes her to her perilous ex, potentially leading to her death.

This act creates a disturbing link for Oliver, associating leaving Saltburn with fatal consequences. Despite being a metaphor, Pamela’s situation underscores the risks posed by her Russian boyfriend, known for his violent tendencies. The dark comedy of "Saltburn" intertwines deaths that serve a grander narrative. After a time jump, Oliver reconnects with a widowed Elspeth, who welcomes him back to Saltburn, hinting at further twists in the story.

Pamela's mysterious end is compared to classic literary themes, such as Heathcliff’s tragic obsession in "Wuthering Heights." As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that Pamela's death serves a critical role in the intricate web of betrayal and ambition among the characters.

How Did The Dad Die On Saltburn
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How Did The Dad Die On Saltburn?

In "Saltburn," Felix discovers that Oliver has deceived him about his family background, claiming his parents were deceased and that he came from a troubled upbringing. In reality, Oliver’s parents are alive and middle class. To execute his sinister plan while hiding his secrets, Oliver poisons Felix’s drink, leading to Felix’s tragic death despite Oliver's professed love for him. Initially perceived as an accidental overdose, it is later revealed that Oliver deliberately poisoned Felix.

Following this, he quickly leaves the estate, yet his schemes continue amidst the ensuing chaos after the death of Sir James Catton, Felix’s father. The narrative darkens further as multiple deaths unfold, invoking curiosity about Oliver’s involvement. On Elspeth Catton's deathbed, Oliver boldly admits to causing the "accidents" at Saltburn, questioning the nature of true accidents. The tension crescendos as Felix invites Oliver to spend the summer at Saltburn under false pretenses.

The story culminates in the revelation that Oliver's manipulations have fatal consequences, including the lingering suggestion that he indirectly caused further tragedies through his calculated actions. The film ends on a disturbing note, prompting audiences to ponder the true motives and outcomes of Oliver’s criminal deceit.


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Freya Gardon

Hi, I’m Freya Gardon, a Collaborative Family Lawyer with nearly a decade of experience at the Brisbane Family Law Centre. Over the years, I’ve embraced diverse roles—from lawyer and content writer to automation bot builder and legal product developer—all while maintaining a fresh and empathetic approach to family law. Currently in my final year of Psychology at the University of Wollongong, I’m excited to blend these skills to assist clients in innovative ways. I’m passionate about working with a team that thinks differently, and I bring that same creativity and sincerity to my blog about family law.

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2 comments

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  • Why go through all this effort for a terrible film and flimsy plot based on wanton wish-fulfillment? Where did Oliver get poison from? Why was their no autopsy and bloodwork done? It’s just written so poorly. The sister’s death is highly contrived – she uses the bathtub right next to Olvier’s room and no one asks a single question

  • Yeah this film sucked in every single possible way. What a waste of time. Movies just try to be edgy and confusing for no reason. Absolutely pointless to even attempt to watch this. Don’t get mislead into thinking it’s worth it 😂😂 it’s one of those where you’ll regret spending 132 minutes perusal a dumb mysterious movie.

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