Wuthering Heights Movie Review: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)
Wuthering Heights is a visually striking romantic drama that stands out for its stunning cinematography, lavish costumes, and strong chemistry between Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. The film captures the intense emotions and passion of the classic love story while presenting it in a modern cinematic style. Performances are engaging, and the overall atmosphere feels rich and immersive.
However, the adaptation takes creative liberties that may not satisfy fans of the original novel. At times, style seems to overshadow emotional depth, and the storytelling can feel uneven. Still, if you enjoy visually beautiful romantic dramas with strong performances, this film remains a worthwhile watch despite its mixed reception.
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Wuthering Heights Movie Review: A Classic Love Story Reimagined
The 2026 adaptation of Wuthering Heights, directed by Emerald Fennell, brings Emily Brontë’s timeless gothic romance back to the big screen with a modern cinematic twist. Released on February 13, 2026, the film stars Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, two iconic literary characters whose intense relationship has fascinated readers for generations.
Produced and distributed by Warner Bros., the film promises lavish visuals, dramatic romance, and emotional complexity. Early critical reactions have been mixed, with some praising its bold style and performances, while others question its faithfulness to the original novel. Still, the film has generated strong curiosity among both literature lovers and mainstream movie audiences.
Story Overview
At its heart, Wuthering Heights tells a passionate yet troubled love story shaped by class differences, emotional wounds, and personal pride. Heathcliff, an outsider taken into the Earnshaw family, forms a deep bond with Catherine. However, social expectations, ambition, and misunderstandings push them apart.
The film focuses heavily on emotional intensity and physical attraction between the two leads. While it retains the essence of doomed romance, it simplifies certain aspects of the novel to make the story more accessible for modern audiences.
Instead of a slow literary build-up, the film opts for dramatic visuals and heightened emotional scenes, creating a cinematic rather than strictly literary experience.
Performances: Strong Chemistry Drives the Film
Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw
Margot Robbie delivers a confident and emotionally expressive performance. She captures Catherine’s passionate, restless personality well. Her screen presence adds depth to a character that could easily feel overly dramatic. Many viewers appreciate how she balances vulnerability with strength.
Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff
Jacob Elordi brings intensity and brooding charm to Heathcliff. His portrayal leans more toward romantic anti-hero than dark tragic figure, which may divide fans of the original novel. However, his chemistry with Robbie is undeniably strong and carries much of the film’s emotional weight.
Supporting Cast
The supporting performances add richness but often remain secondary to the central romance. The focus clearly stays on the Catherine–Heathcliff dynamic.
Also Read: Wuthering Heights Cast Salary, Budget, and Film Details
Direction: Bold Style Over Traditional Faithfulness
Emerald Fennell’s direction is visually ambitious. She prioritizes mood, aesthetics, and emotional atmosphere over strict fidelity to the source material.
The film highlights:
- Sensual romantic tension
- Dramatic landscapes and moor settings
- Stylish costume design
- Heightened emotional moments
While this approach creates a visually captivating film, some critics feel it sacrifices emotional depth and narrative complexity.
Still, Fennell’s signature bold storytelling is evident, making the film stand out among period romances.
Screenplay & Adaptation Choices
The screenplay simplifies several darker themes from the novel, making the story more accessible but less psychologically complex.
Some changes include:
- Greater focus on romantic passion
- Reduced emphasis on social cruelty
- Streamlined secondary storylines
These decisions make the film easier to follow but may disappoint purists expecting a faithful literary adaptation.
Music, Cinematography & Visual Appeal
Technically, Wuthering Heights is impressive.
Cinematography
The moorland visuals are breathtaking. Wide landscape shots, soft lighting, and atmospheric framing create a strong Gothic mood.
Costume Design
Elegant gowns, period styling, and rich colour palettes enhance authenticity while adding glamour.
Background Score
The music supports emotional intensity without overpowering scenes. It adds romantic melancholy that fits the film’s tone.
Overall, the technical aspects are among the film’s strongest features.
Wuthering Heights Movie Review: What Works Well
Stunning Visual Experience
Beautiful landscapes, costumes, and cinematography elevate the film.
Lead Actor Chemistry
Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi share convincing emotional and romantic chemistry.
Accessible Storytelling
Simplified narrative helps modern audiences connect with the classic tale.
Bold Creative Vision
The director’s unique style gives the film a fresh identity.
Wuthering Heights Movie Review: What Could Have Been Better
Loose Adaptation
Fans of the original novel may find the adaptation less faithful.
Emotional Depth
Some critics feel the emotional complexity is simplified.
Tonal Imbalance
At times, style overshadows substance.
Mixed Critical Reception
With scores around 65% on Rotten Tomatoes and mid-range critical ratings, reactions remain divided.
Audience Reaction & Buzz
Audience response has been polarizing. Some viewers call it visually stunning and emotionally engaging, while others feel it prioritizes aesthetics over storytelling depth.
Social media discussions highlight:
- Strong romantic chemistry
- Lavish period visuals
- Debate about faithfulness to the novel
Box office projections suggest a solid opening due to Valentine’s Day timing and star power.
Also Read: Funky Movie Review: Vishwak Sen’s Quirky Comedy Entertains but Feels Uneven
Final Verdict on Wuthering Heights Movie Review
Wuthering Heights (2026) is a visually striking romantic drama that chooses modern cinematic appeal over strict literary accuracy. Emerald Fennell delivers a bold, stylish film anchored by strong performances from Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. While it may not fully satisfy fans of the original novel, it offers an engaging romantic experience for contemporary audiences.
If you appreciate atmospheric romance, strong visuals, and emotionally charged storytelling, this adaptation is worth watching. Just approach it as a reinterpretation rather than a faithful recreation.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)
A beautiful, passionate, but slightly divisive retelling of a timeless love story.