Wuthering Heights: Critics Divided as Emerald Fennell’s Bold Adaptation Hits Cinemas

London, 11 February 2026 – The literary world and cinema-goers alike are locked in a heated debate this week following the premiere of Emerald Fennell’s reinvention of Wuthering Heights. Starring Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, the film has sparked a firestorm of conflicting reviews, with critics labelling it everything from a “fever-dream masterpiece” to a “trashy bodice-ripper”. As the film prepares for its wide release in UK cinemas on 14 February 2026, the production is already projected to secure a massive global opening of up to £62 million ($80 million).

A Polarising Vision of the Yorkshire Moors

Director Emerald Fennell, known for her provocative storytelling, has opted for a “psychedelic” and “sexed-up” interpretation of Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel. While some reviewers at The Telegraph have praised the film as a “gasp-inducing thrill ride”, others, including The Guardian, have dismissed it as an “emotionally hollow misfire”. The performances of Robbie and Elordi have been a particular point of contention; some critics noted a lack of chemistry, while others described their portrayal of the doomed lovers as “utterly absorbing”.

The film’s departure from the source material is significant. Fennell’s version reportedly leans into “arthouse” sensibilities and “exhausting sex scenes”, a far cry from the traditional Gothic gloom associated with the Earnshaw and Linton estates. Despite the critical divide, the film’s visual style and its use of the brooding English moors as a central “character” have received near-unanimous acclaim.

Key Facts: Wuthering Heights (2026 Film)

The following table outlines the essential details of the current production and its source material as of 11 February 2026.

The Original Narrative: A Brief Overview

For those revisiting the story ahead of the film’s release, Wuthering Heights remains a complex tale of revenge and obsession. The narrative is primarily framed through the perspective of Mr Lockwood, a gentleman renting Thrushcross Grange, who learns the history of the neighbouring estate from the housekeeper, Nelly Dean.

The story follows Heathcliff, an orphan brought to the Heights by Mr Earnshaw. His intense bond with Catherine Earnshaw transcends social class and even death, eventually leading to a multi-generational conflict involving the Earnshaw and Linton families. The novel is celebrated for its exploration of fate, social standing, and the destructive nature of love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the new movie a faithful adaptation of the book?

No. Critics and the director herself have stated that this version plays by its own rules. It is described as a reinvention rather than a traditional adaptation, focusing on a “fever-dream” aesthetic and modern sensibilities rather than strict adherence to the 1847 text.

Who are the main families in the story?

The story centres on two landowning families: the Earnshaws, who reside at Wuthering Heights, and the Lintons, who live at the more refined Thrushcross Grange.

When can I watch the film in the UK?

The film is scheduled for release in United Kingdom cinemas on 14 February 2026, coinciding with Valentine’s Day.