"Wuthering Heights"

Wuthering Heights is a 136‑minute romantic period drama that takes a fresh, stylised spin on Emily Brontë’s classic 1847 novel. Written, directed and produced by Emerald Fennell, the film follows the doomed love story of Heathcliff (Jacob Elordi) and Catherine Earnshaw (Margot Robbie) as they grow up on the bleak Yorkshire moors and navigate a world of class, passion and revenge. Fennell’s goal was to “recreate the feeling of a teenage girl reading this book for the first time,” so the film leans heavily into visual flair, lush cinematography by Linus Sandgren and a contemporary soundtrack that mixes Anthony Willis’s score with pop tracks from Charli XCX and John Cale.

The movie is a mix of classic gothic romance and modern sensibilities. It’s got the sweeping moorland landscapes, the dramatic family drama, and a love‑triangle that’s as intense as it is tragic. The story is told with a lot of energy and a touch of carnality, which gives it a “visually vibrant pleasure” vibe that critics have praised for its style, even if the narrative feels a bit loose compared to the original novel. The cast is a star‑powered lineup: Robbie and Elordi bring a magnetic chemistry, while the supporting cast—Linus Sandgren, Anthony Willis, and a host of period‑costume extras—adds depth to the world.

Who will dig it? If you’re a fan of period dramas that don’t mind a bit of modern swagger, or if you love a romance that’s both beautiful and brutal, Wuthering Heights will likely hit the spot. The film’s chic aesthetic and bold take on the characters’ sexuality make it a “carnal good time” for viewers who appreciate a visually striking love story. It also appeals to those who enjoy a mix of classic influences—think Random Harvest, The Night Porter, and The Handmaiden—because Fennell weaves those tones into the film’s atmosphere.

Who might be turned off? If you’re looking for a faithful, page‑by‑page retelling of Brontë’s novel, you’ll probably find the film a bit too far‑fetched. The adaptation is intentionally loose, and some critics felt the heavy dose of carnality and stylisation left emotional gaps. The casting of Elordi as Heathcliff sparked debate, and the film’s modern take on the story’s themes may feel out of place for purists who prefer the original’s subtlety.

Commercially, the film was a solid performer, pulling in over $200 million worldwide against an $80 million budget. It’s a visual treat that offers a new way to experience a timeless tragedy, but it’s best suited for viewers who enjoy bold, period‑romance storytelling rather than a strict literary adaptation.