Emerald Fennell’s audacious reinterpretation of *Wuthering Heights*, featuring stars Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie, has sparked a fierce debate among critics as it readies for its Valentine’s Day release. The film, which seeks to inject a modern twist into Emily Brontë’s classic tale of tumultuous love and revenge, has garnered a spectrum of reactions—ranging from rapturous praise to scathing critique.
A Tale of Two Perspectives
Set against the backdrop of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Fennell’s adaptation revolves around the passionate but destructive relationship between the headstrong Cathy and the brooding Heathcliff. While the film’s promotional materials cleverly use quotation marks around *Wuthering Heights* to indicate a fresh perspective, the interpretation has proven polarising.
Peter Bradshaw of *The Guardian* dismissed the film as an “emotionally hollow, bodice-ripping misfire,” awarding it a mere two stars. He lamented the film’s excessive style, suggesting it prioritises superficiality over substance, describing it as a “20-page fashion shoot of relentless silliness.” In stark contrast, Robbie Collin of *The Telegraph* offered a glowing five-star review, asserting that Fennell’s vision is “resplendently lurid, oozy and wild.” He defended the film against claims of lacking depth, arguing that Fennell’s distinct style could itself be a form of substance.
Controversial Choices and Casting
The film has attracted scrutiny not only for its interpretation of Brontë’s work but also for its casting decisions and the reportedly BDSM-inspired scenes. Critics have been quick to highlight how these elements might alienate purists while appealing to a contemporary audience. The film’s marketing, featuring Charli XCX’s accompanying soundtrack, adds another layer of modernity that has been both celebrated and derided.
Multiple reviewers have drawn comparisons to the works of Mills & Boon, with *The Sun*’s Dulcie Pearce noting that the adaptation feels more like a romance novel than a faithful rendition of Brontë’s classic. Clarisse Loughrey of *The Independent* was particularly scathing, giving it only one star and labelling it an “astonishingly bad adaptation,” suggesting it resembles a limp romance more than a gothic masterpiece.
Stars Shine Amidst Criticism
Despite the mixed reviews, some critics have praised the performances of Elordi and Robbie, highlighting their palpable chemistry on screen. *The Hollywood Reporter*’s David Rooney commended their captivating dynamic, suggesting that the film becomes a compelling experience when one lets go of preconceived notions about the original narrative. Vicky Jessop from *The Standard* echoed this sentiment, awarding four stars and noting that Fennell delivers a “full-throated, filthy maximalism” that resonates with audiences.
Conversely, Kevin Maher of *The Times* found fault with the adaptation, dubbing Robbie a “Brontë Barbie” and lamenting the shallow portrayal of Heathcliff. The polarization of these views reflects a broader struggle within the film community over the balance of reimagining classic literature while respecting its core essence.
The Final Verdict
With critics offering reviews that oscillate between two stars and five, Fennell’s *Wuthering Heights* is poised to be one of the most discussed films of the season. The film’s UK premiere is set for 13 February, and its reception could redefine how classic literature is adapted for modern audiences.
Why it Matters
The divided reception of *Wuthering Heights* underscores a crucial tension in contemporary filmmaking: the challenge of reimagining beloved classics in a way that resonates with modern sensibilities while honouring their literary roots. As audiences grapple with these new interpretations, the film serves as a litmus test for how far filmmakers can push boundaries before they alienate devoted fans of the original works. In an age where adaptation is commonplace, Fennell’s bold choices might just spark a necessary dialogue about the future of literary cinema.
