Based upon the 1847 novel by Emily Bronte, Wuthering Heights tells the devastating love story of Catherine Earnshaw (Margot Robbie) and Heathcliff (Jacob Elordi). Set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors, Cathy and Heathcliff strike up a friendship like no other when Cathy’s father brings him to live with them. As the years go by, the feelings they have for one another grows.
Writer and director Emerald Fennell is known for being provocative and unique. She made quite the splash when she announced she would be adapting such a beloved classic, especially because she wanted to tell it her way. As a result, many people have been left divided over the casting choices and the changes that have been made to the source material. I did read the book, but that was so long ago now that I barely remember it. I had been really looking forward to seeing the film and I have to say that I liked it.
Both Robbie and Elordi were scrutinised for taking on the roles of Cathy and Heathcliff respectively. They were not at all what the majority had in mind for the characters, but I thought they did a good job. Robbie was perfect as the bitchy, possessive Cathy while Elordi was so very handsome and also kind of scary as Heathcliff. I am a fan of both – not only are they absolutely gorgeous, they sizzle as a couple. The romantic relationship between them is not a healthy one whatsoever, but it is so full of passion that I almost didn’t care. Those longing looks and angst filled moments were almost better than when they actually ended up finally giving into their feelings.
The film wouldn’t have been complete without the supporting cast. Hong Chau starred as Nelly Dean, Cathy’s maid and former confidant. Not the nicest of people, you can’t help but feel for her and understand why she does what she does. Shazad Latif portrayed Edgar Linton, the man who Cathy agrees to marry when Heathcliff disappears. I appreciated the fact that Edgar didn’t let Cathy walk all over him and tried to fight for their marriage. The real scene stealer for me though was Alison Oliver who took a star turn as Isabella Linton. She was kind of strange, but so incredibly funny, the whole theatre was cracking up whenever she was on screen.
Though not at all historically accurate, everything about the film was breathtaking. From the cinematography, to the costumes, the intricate set designs and the distinctive soundtrack, it was a feast for the senses. Fennell is nothing if not deliberate with the way in which she approaches her projects; that was evident in Promising Young Women and Saltburn. This was no exception. From the moors, to the Linton estate and the house where Cathy and Heathcliff met and became forever intwined, each were expertly crafted. In addition to being completely in love with Cathy’s entire wardrobe, I also thought the soundtrack choices from Charli XCX worked well.
I think it helps to go into Wuthering Heights separating the book from the film. Because I knew that this was going to be a completely different take on the timeless story, I wanted to be as open minded as possible. This allowed me to enjoy the film a lot more than I thought I would. Despite the changes, I thought it still did a brilliant job at portraying the epic love story between Catherine and Heathcliff, so much so that I was left in tears at the end. That tells me everything I need to know.
Rating: ♥️♥️♥️♥️
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