Emerging as a cinematic spectacle, Emerald Fennell’s audacious adaptation of *Wuthering Heights* has taken the international box office by storm, raking in a staggering £56 million over its opening weekend. Despite a polarising reception from critics, this reimagining of Emily Brontë’s gothic classic has captured the attention of audiences, positioning itself as the highest-grossing new release of 2026 thus far.
A Bold New Take
Starring Margot Robbie as Cathy and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, Fennell’s *Wuthering Heights* has sparked intense debate over its unconventional interpretation of the original material. Launched on Friday, 13 February, just in time for Valentine’s Day, the film amassed a notable $34.8 million (£25.5 million) in the US alone, marking the biggest opening weekend of the year to date.
While the American box office figures fell marginally short of expectations, international sales exceeded forecasts. The film has yet to premiere in major markets such as Japan, China, and Vietnam, indicating that its financial triumph may continue to grow.
Audience vs. Critics: A Clear Divide
The film’s commercial success stands in stark contrast to its critical reception. Research from PostTrak indicates that the film has attracted a predominantly female audience, with women comprising 76 per cent of international viewership. However, contrary to the marketing strategy aimed at female viewers, an unexpectedly significant number of men have also engaged with the film during its opening weekend.
On the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, *Wuthering Heights* boasts an audience score of 80 per cent, sharply diverging from its 61 per cent critical rating, based on 244 reviews. This discrepancy highlights a keen interest among viewers that critics have not universally shared.
Among the harshest critiques came from Clarisse Loughrey of The Independent, who described the film as “an astonishingly hollow work,” awarding it just one star. She argues that Fennell’s adaptation undermines the depth of Brontë’s emotionally charged narrative, labelling it a transformation that prioritises marketability over fidelity.
Conversely, critical accolades have emerged from outlets like the BBC, which awarded the film four stars, and The Telegraph, which praised it as “resplendently lurid, oozy and wild,” in a five-star review. Critic Robbie Collins commended its ability to immerse viewers in a narrative about obsession, highlighting Fennell’s distinctive storytelling style.
Notable Changes and Adaptation Choices
One of the most contentious aspects of Fennell’s adaptation is its significant deviation from Brontë’s 1847 novel. Critics have noted the modernised costumes featuring iridescent fabrics and latex, as well as a key plot alteration involving Heathcliff’s treatment of Isabella, which transforms into a BDSM-inspired scene rather than the original narrative arc.
Fennell has defended her creative liberties, particularly her focus on the first half of the novel, stating, “If you’re making a movie, and you’ve got to be fairly tight, you’ve got to make those kinds of hard decisions.” This approach, while contentious, has allowed Fennell to reframe the story in a manner that resonates with contemporary audiences.
A Cinematic Phenomenon
With its striking visuals and provocative retelling, *Wuthering Heights* stands as a testament to the enduring power of classic literature to inspire new interpretations. Fennell’s daring choices have not only sparked conversation among critics but have also drawn in a diverse audience eager for fresh narratives.
Why it Matters
The success of *Wuthering Heights* underscores a significant shift in the cinematic landscape, where adaptations of classic literature can diverge from tradition yet still captivate audiences. As filmmakers continue to challenge conventions, the dialogue surrounding such reinterpretations becomes increasingly vital. This film’s polarising reception highlights the complexities of audience expectations and the evolving nature of storytelling in the modern age—demonstrating that even the most beloved narratives can be re-envisioned in ways that ignite both passion and debate.
