Wuthering Heights Hits Screens With Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi in a Daring Adaptation

A new cinematic interpretation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel Wuthering Heights has arrived in theaters, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi in the central roles of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, respectively. Directed, written, and produced by Emerald Fennell, the 2026 adaptation has ignited discussion for its bold storytelling and striking visual approach.

The film opened widely on February 13, 2026, strategically just ahead of Valentine’s Day — a release date that underlines the passionate and tumultuous themes at the core of the narrative.

A Contemporary Take on a Gothic Classic

Fennell’s version of Wuthering Heights is both a homage and a reimagining of the 1847 novel. Rather than strictly adhering to the source material’s structure, the adaptation captures the raw emotional intensity between Cathy and Heathcliff while infusing the story with the director’s signature dramatic flair.

Produced by Warner Bros. Pictures with backing from MRC and Robbie’s own LuckyChap Entertainment, the film reinterprets Brontë’s narrative through modern cinematic lenses. Robbie also assumes producing duties, continuing her creative partnership with Fennell following Promising Young Woman and Saltburn.

Cast and Creative Team

• Margot Robbie as Catherine “Cathy” Earnshaw
• Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff
• Hong Chau as Nelly Dean
• Shazad Latif as Edgar Linton
• Alison Oliver as Isabella Linton
• Martin Clunes and Ewan Mitchell in supporting roles

The film’s aesthetic is complemented by an evocative score, including contributions from Charli XCX, and cinematography that highlights the windswept moors of northern England — a landscape intrinsically linked to the novel’s atmosphere.

A Release Marked by Debate and Praise

Since its premiere, Wuthering Heights has prompted a wide range of reactions from audiences and critics alike:

• Box Office and Audience Buzz: Early social media responses have vividly described the film as “twisted,” “scorching hot,” and emotionally intense, with many praising Robbie and Elordi’s chemistry and the visual richness of the adaptation.
• Fan Discussions and Criticism: Some viewers and literary purists have expressed unease about the film’s divergence from the novel’s tone and themes, with debates focusing on narrative choices and the focus on sensual elements over psychological complexity.
• Cast Chemistry Spotlight: Behind the scenes, Robbie and Elordi’s strong creative rapport has drawn attention, with the pair describing a deep emotional connection while filming on the English moors.

A Bold Interpretation for a New Generation

Fennell’s Wuthering Heights doesn’t attempt a literal replication of Brontë’s text. Instead, it embraces the elemental forces of obsession and desire that have defined the story for nearly two centuries, presenting them through heightened visuals and modern emotional beats.

The result is a film that invites strong reactions — whether admiration for its cinematic daring or critique for its departure from traditional adaptations. Regardless, it stands as one of the most talked‑about literary films of 2026, attracting both longtime fans of the novel and new viewers drawn to its bold interpretation.