Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights Review: A Disappointing Adaptation

Emerald Fennell’s adaptation of “Wuthering Heights” has garnered mixed reactions since its release. This interpretation of Emily Brontë’s 1847 classic has not resonated well with audiences and critics alike.

Key Changes in Fennell’s Adaptation

One significant alteration involves the casting choices. Heathcliff is portrayed by Jacob Elordi, a white Australian actor, while Cathy is played by Margot Robbie, who embodies a blonde-and-blue-eyed character. This casting choice introduces a serious departure from the racial and class dynamics outlined in the original novel.

The film neglects vital themes such as race and colonialism. Instead, it focuses primarily on the romantic angles of the story, transforming the complex characters into mere archetypes. Heathcliff, in particular, is reduced to a romanticized figure rather than the tortured soul depicted in Brontë’s text.

Flattened Narrative and Emotional Depth

Fennell only adapts the first half of the novel, continuing a tradition established by earlier adaptations, such as the 1939 film and Andrea Arnold’s 2011 version. The film lacks the dark and complex tone that characterizes Brontë’s work. Instead, it presents a sanitized version filled with clichéd romance tropes.

• Heathcliff’s character is simplified to a “dreamboat,” ignoring his darker motivations.
• The narrative centers around Cathy as a poor maiden seeking escape through marriage.
• Key themes of revenge and tragedy are watered down into a more palatable story.

Visually Striking but Shallow

While the production boasts stunning visuals, including costumes by Jacqueline Durran and cinematography by Linus Sandgren, these elements often distract from the hollow narrative. Fennell’s vision leads the film to resemble a live-action Disney adaptation, rather than a faithful representation of a Gothic classic.

Charli XCX and Anthony Willis’s musical contributions stand out, adding an eerie layer that the film otherwise lacks. Unfortunately, the film’s supposed provocations, such as sadomasochistic elements and dark humor, fall flat and appear more as jokes than serious commentary.

Performance Analysis

The chemistry between Robbie and Elordi, while adequate, fails to elevate the characters beyond superficial representations. Both actors deliver performances bordering on pantomime rather than embodying the depth needed for Brontë’s roles.

Conclusion

Emerald Fennell’s “Wuthering Heights” may appeal to those looking for a marketed romantic film, but it ultimately loses the essence of Brontë’s original work. The adaptation lacks the disturbance and emotional impact that define the source material. Fennell’s loss is indeed Brontë’s gain, as the original text remains a singular literary masterpiece.

Director: Emerald Fennell
Starring: Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi, Hong Chau, Shazad Latif, Alison Oliver, Martin Clunes, Ewan Mitchell
Rating: 15
Duration: 136 minutes
Release Date: February 13