Early reactions say Emerald Fennell’s “Wuthering Heights” is bold, sexy, and emotional—powered by Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi’s fiery spark.
Emerald Fennell is back in the spotlight, and this time she’s taking on one of literature’s most famous love stories.
Her new film Wuthering Heights, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, screened early for members of the film press—and the response has been loud, passionate, and very enthusiastic.
From the jump, critics are praising the film as a big, dramatic crowd-pleaser that doesn’t play it safe. Instead of a quiet, dusty period piece, Fennell’s take is being described as intense, stylish, and emotionally overwhelming—in the best way.
Much of the early buzz centers on the chemistry between Robbie and Elordi, who play Cathy and Heathcliff. Their connection has been called electric, with several writers noting that their shared scenes practically hum with tension.
Rather than holding back, the film leans into the obsession and longing that made Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel so shocking in its time.
Critic Courtney Howard called the movie a “god-tier new classic,” praising how deeply it captures desire and emotional pain. She highlighted the work of cinematographer Linus Sandgren and production designer Suzie Davies, saying the visuals are as powerful as the story itself.
According to Howard, every frame feels carefully crafted to pull viewers into the characters’ inner lives.
Others echoed that feeling. Variety editor Jazz Tangcay described the film as a dark, twisted romance that fully commits to its emotions. She credited Fennell for taking a familiar story and making it feel dangerous and new again, adding that the craftsmanship—from costumes to set design—is impossible to ignore.
Box office watchers are also optimistic. Entertainment writer Scott Menzel predicted strong ticket sales and awards attention, especially in visual categories like cinematography, costume design, and score.
He also pointed to Elordi’s growing star power, suggesting this role could mark another major step forward in his career.
Anne Thompson of IndieWire struck a similar note, forecasting a strong opening and wide appeal. She described the film as loud, dramatic, and unrestrained—very much in line with Fennell’s signature style.
According to Thompson, audiences who enjoy bold visuals and big emotions will be fully on board.
The story follows Cathy, a wealthy young woman, and Heathcliff, an outsider who never quite fits into polite society. Their bond is deep, messy, and often destructive. When Cathy chooses security over passion, Heathcliff disappears—only to return determined to reclaim what he lost.
It’s a tale of love, pride, and regret, told here with modern energy.
The cast also includes Hong Chau, Alison Oliver, Shazad Latif, Martin Clunes, and Ewan Mitchell. Adding a contemporary edge, the film features original music by pop star Charli xcx, an unexpected choice that early viewers say works surprisingly well.
Wuthering Heights has been adapted many times before, from the classic 1939 version starring Laurence Olivier to more recent retellings. But Fennell has made it clear she wanted something different.
Speaking last year, she said she aimed to recreate the raw, emotional punch she felt when she first read the novel—not just tell the story again.
“I wanted it to feel primal,” she explained. “Like a physical reaction.”
Judging by the first reactions, that goal may have been reached. With its Feb. 13 release date approaching, Wuthering Heights is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about romantic dramas of the year—one that dares audiences to feel everything, all at once.
Are you excited to see this bold new take? Share your thoughts and tell us if this is a must-watch for you.
PHOTO CREDIT: Warner Bros.
