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February 4, 2026
‘A god-tier new classic’: first reactions to Wuthering Heights praise ‘hot, horny’ Emerald Fennell adaptation
The acclaimed latest version of the Emily Brontë bestseller is, however, not without controversies over race and age
TL;DR
- Early reactions to Emerald Fennell's "Wuthering Heights" adaptation are largely positive, with descriptors like "intoxicating," "transcendent," and "god-tier new classic."
- Critics praise the film's "breathtaking ache and essence of desire," "passion, destruction, lust, revenge," and "undeniable chemistry and explosive toxic desire."
- Predictions of strong box office performance and awards potential for stars Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie are noted, alongside Fennell's "garish visuals and unrestrained direction."
- A note of caution is raised regarding the film's length, though the chemistry between the leads is emphasized.
- The adaptation faces skepticism from purists due to costume design, apparent BDSM themes, and casting choices, particularly Margot Robbie as Cathy and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff.
- Fennell defends her choices by pointing to the book's "sado-masochism" and her interpretation as a personal take, emphasizing the novel's timelessness and potential for varied adaptations.
- The film is set for a worldwide release on February 13th.
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