In a surprising turn of events, Hollywood stars Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi have been cast as Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff in a new film adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel, Wuthering Heights, directed by Emerald Fennell. While the pairing of two of the industry’s hottest actors might usually excite fans, their casting has sparked considerable backlash, raising questions about fidelity to the original text and the age of the characters. Critics have expressed concerns that the casting choices do not align with the characters’ descriptions in the 1847 novel, where Catherine is depicted as a teenager and Heathcliff is described as “dark-skinned.”
The announcement of the adaptation has left many film enthusiasts bewildered, with Independent film critic Clarisse Loughrey questioning whether those involved had actually read the book before making casting decisions. Others, like TV and film critic Gavia Baker-Whitelaw, pointedly noted that both stars look more suited to an Instagram feed than the tempestuous Yorkshire moors that serve as the backdrop for the tragic love story. “White Heathcliff and 34-year-old Cathy, and they both look like they belong on Instagram. I’m obsessed,” Baker-Whitelaw remarked, highlighting a disconnect between the actors’ appearances and the novel’s rich character descriptions.
Emerald Fennell, known for her Oscar-winning film Promising Young Woman and last year’s success Saltburn, is at the helm of this adaptation. However, critics like Collider editor Maggie Boccella have voiced that Fennell’s approach may not prioritize the themes of Brontë’s work, suggesting that her focus is more on creating a marketable “tortured lovers drama” rather than a faithful retelling of the novel’s complex narrative. The film is set to begin shooting in the UK next year, but details about the adaptation’s storyline remain sparse.
Fennell’s announcement of the project in July was accompanied by a gothic illustration of two skeletons and a haunting quote from Heathcliff: “Be with me always, take any form, drive me mad.” While some fans are optimistic, hoping for a dramatic and melodramatic interpretation, others are skeptical about how closely the adaptation will stick to Brontë’s original vision.
The casting of Robbie and Elordi comes at a time when both actors are experiencing significant career momentum, with Robbie currently pregnant and Elordi riding high from his performance in Saltburn. The role of Heathcliff, a complex character who embodies both romantic heroism and darker traits, has been portrayed in various adaptations over the years, including a 2011 film featuring Kaya Scodelario and James Howson, and a 1992 version with Juliette Binoche and Ralph Fiennes.
As the film gears up for production, the debate around its casting choices and direction continues to unfold, reflecting broader discussions about representation and fidelity in adaptations of classic literature. As fans await more information, the hope remains that Fennell will bring a fresh yet respectful perspective to this enduring tale of passion and tragedy.
