Early Reactions to Emerald Fennell's Adaptation of *Wuthering Heights*

Emerald Fennell's adaptation of Emily Brontë's *Wuthering Heights* is set to be released on February 13, 2026. The film stars Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, exploring their tumultuous and passionate relationship against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors. The cast also includes Hong Chau, Shazad Latif, Alison Oliver, Martin Clunes, and Ewan Mitchell. Fennell, known for her previous works *Promising Young Woman* and *Saltburn*, aims to bring a fresh and steamy perspective to this classic tale.

“Wuthering Heights” First Reactions: Margot Robbie & Jacob Elordi Have Incandescent Chemistry in Emerald Fennell’s ScorcherIs Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights Worth Watching? Critics Weigh InEmerald Fennell’s ‘Wuthering Heights’: First Reactions

Early reactions from film critics and audiences have been overwhelmingly positive. Many have praised the film's intense chemistry between Robbie and Elordi, with comments highlighting their performances as "explosive" and "divine." Critics have described the film as a "bodice-ripping crowd-pleaser" and a "god-tier new classic," with Courtney Howard calling it "intoxicating, transcendent, and hypnotic." The cinematography by Linus Sandgren and the production design by Suzie Davies have also received acclaim, contributing to the film's anticipated visual splendor.

‘Wuthering Heights’ First Reactions: Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi’s Chemistry Is a ‘Whole Other Level of Hot’ in a ‘Bodice-Ripping Crowd-Pleaser’

Fennell's direction has been noted for its bold and colorful approach, with some critics suggesting that it channels the raw emotion of the source material into a "full-on sensory experience." Anne Thompson of IndieWire remarked that "everything is BIG," indicating the film's grand scale and ambitious vision. Scott Mendelson described it as a nuanced romantic tragedy that successfully balances big-budget production values with emotional depth.

‘Wuthering Heights’ first reactions: “Charli XCX’s songs are major”

The film features original music from pop artist Charli XCX, which has been highlighted as a significant element of the film's appeal. Critics have noted that the soundtrack blends well with the orchestral score by Anthony Willis, enhancing the film's emotional impact.

‘Wuthering Heights’ first reactions: “Charli XCX’s songs are major”

Despite the positive reception, some critics have expressed concerns regarding Fennell's anachronistic choices in costume design and the casting of Elordi, who has faced backlash for not fitting the traditional description of Heathcliff. Fennell has defended her adaptation, emphasizing the inherent "sado-masochism" in Brontë's work and asserting that her version is a personal interpretation among many possible takes on the story.

‘A god-tier new classic’: first reactions to Wuthering Heights praise ‘hot, horny’ Emerald Fennell adaptation

As *Wuthering Heights* approaches its release, the early buzz suggests it could be a major box office success, appealing to both fans of the novel and new audiences alike. The film's combination of passionate performances, striking visuals, and a contemporary soundtrack positions it as a noteworthy entry in the canon of adaptations of Brontë's classic. With its release timed for Valentine's Day, it aims to resonate with viewers seeking a romantic yet intense cinematic experience.

Is Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights Worth Watching? Critics Weigh In