Emerald Fennell’s Rage-Bait Masterpiece Wins Us Over

A New Take on a Classic

Wuthering Heights is set to be one of the most anticipated films of 2026. The film has garnered attention for its all-star cast, including Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, and a substantial budget. It also features a soundtrack by Charli xcx and is an adaptation of one of the most cherished books in English literature.

However, the film’s creator, Emerald Fennell, has made it clear that this isn’t your typical adaptation of Wuthering Heights. In an interview with Fandango, she stated, “You can’t adapt a book as dense and complicated and difficult as this book.” Fennell emphasized that her film is not a direct adaptation but rather a version of the story she remembers from reading. She explained that there are multiple versions of the story: one that she recalls, one that she wished would happen, and the actual book itself.

This approach has already sparked controversy among fans of the Brontë classic. Some are upset about various aspects of the film, while others, particularly younger audiences, are excited. This polarizing effect seems to be intentional, as Fennell has masterfully used the public’s outrage to generate hype for her film.

A Bold Strategy

Fennell has taken the traditional film press tour and transformed it into an art form. Her strategy has been to shock, titillate, and even confuse the audience. Even before the film’s release, it has already become a topic of intense discussion. The choice of February 13 as the release date, instead of Valentine’s Day, is seen as a deliberate nod to the film’s themes of toxic love. This move is interpreted as a wink from Fennell, who has skillfully harnessed the audience’s outrage to build anticipation for her project.

The film’s announcement in 2024 was equally unconventional. Fennell shared a cryptic graphic and a quote from the book: “Be with me always, Take any form, Drive me mad.” These words seem to have been more than just a marketing ploy; they were a call to action for the audience.

A Success Story

Fennell’s previous film, Saltburn, was a massive success. It premiered in late 2023 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The film featured a star turn from Barry Keoghan and included scenes that shocked and intrigued viewers. Critics had mixed reactions, with some calling it "weirdly overheated and grandiose" and others finding it "ludicrous." Despite the divided opinions, the film generated significant buzz, especially on social media platforms like TikTok.

The success of Saltburn led to increased visibility for its cast, with Keoghan experiencing a career boost. The film’s impact extended beyond critical acclaim, as it influenced popular culture and even led to the sale of merchandise inspired by the movie.

Revisiting a Controversial Novel

Wuthering Heights itself was controversial when it was first published in 1847. Critics at the time lambasted the novel for its "vulgar depravity and unnatural horrors," calling it "coarse and disagreeable." However, Fennell aims to bring back some of that revulsion in her adaptation. She believes that movies should provoke discomfort and challenge audiences to confront uncomfortable truths.

"I stick my finger in," she said in an interview with Deadline. This philosophy has been evident in the film’s casting choices and visual elements, which have already generated significant discussion. The inclusion of Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, both older than their characters and white, has raised eyebrows. Additionally, the first-look images of Robbie in a 1980s-style wedding dress have sparked further debate.

Creating Buzz

Every aspect of the film’s promotion has been carefully crafted to generate conversation. From the casting choices to the visual elements, everything is designed to spark interest and discussion. The trailers have included provocative scenes, such as a character clutching walls made of human skin, which have added to the film’s mystique.

The costumes, featuring Cathy in see-through tulle and an all-vinyl red dress, have also drawn criticism from purists. However, these salacious details have only added to the film’s allure, ensuring that it remains in the public eye.

A Masterclass in Marketing

Fennell has recognized that in today’s digital age, viral buzz is essential for a film’s success. By leveraging social media and generating controversy, she has created a film that is impossible to ignore. The buzz surrounding Wuthering Heights has already positioned it as one of the must-watch releases of the year.

While it may not receive award nominations, the film’s success will likely be measured by its ability to dominate the news cycle and attract a wide audience. As the release date approaches, it’s clear that Fennell has successfully executed her vision, turning what could have been a simple adaptation into a cultural phenomenon.

A Film That Will Be Spoken About

Wuthering Heights is set to be one of the most talked-about films of 2026. With its bold approach and unconventional marketing, it is poised to capture the attention of both critics and audiences. Whether it will be celebrated or criticized, one thing is certain: it will not go unnoticed.

The Power of Provocation

Emerald Fennell’s approach to filmmaking has always been provocative, and Wuthering Heights is no exception. By challenging traditional storytelling and embracing controversy, she has created a film that is as much about the reaction it generates as it is about the story itself.

A Blockbuster Sensation

As the release date draws near, it’s clear that Wuthering Heights will be a major event. Whether it will be hailed as a masterpiece or criticized as overly provocative, one thing is certain: it will be a film that people will remember.