The first trailer for Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights has finally dropped — and it’s already sparking headlines, outrage, and fascination in equal measure. Known for pushing boundaries with Promising Young Woman and the divisive yet viral hit Saltburn, Fennell is now taking on Emily Brontë’s iconic gothic romance with a provocative, erotic spin.
A Bold New Take on a Literary Classic
Fennell’s version casts Margot Robbie as Catherine and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, instantly giving the brooding love story a Hollywood glow-up. The supporting cast is equally star-studded, featuring Oscar nominee Hong Chau, veteran Martin Clunes, and breakout newcomer Owen Cooper.
The project triggered a major bidding war in 2024, with Netflix reportedly offering $150 million. But Warner Bros ultimately secured the rights for just $80 million, winning over both Fennell and Robbie, who were adamant about a theatrical release.
Provocative and Controversial
Even before release, the adaptation is dividing audiences. An early test screening reportedly left viewers stunned, with reactions ranging from “aggressively provocative” to “tonally abrasive.” One particular scene — involving a public hanging that takes an unexpectedly graphic turn — has already become infamous in industry whispers.
And if that wasn’t enough to stir debate, billboards in London, New York, and Los Angeles are teasing the film with sultry imagery and the tagline from the trailer: “Drive me mad.”
The Stars Behind the Madness
For Robbie, this marks a sharp pivot from the candy-colored juggernaut of Barbie to the windswept moors of Brontë’s Yorkshire. She’ll also appear later this month in A Big Bold Beautiful Journey opposite Colin Farrell.
Elordi, meanwhile, is riding a career high following Euphoria, Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla, and the indie drama On Swift Horses. Up next, he’ll tackle Frankenstein in Guillermo del Toro’s long-awaited adaptation. Speaking about Wuthering Heights, Elordi couldn’t contain his excitement: “It’s breathtaking. A true epic. The visuals, the costumes, the performances — everything is incredible.”
Casting Backlash
But not everyone is thrilled with the casting. Some fans of Brontë’s novel have criticized the decision to cast Elordi, pointing out that Heathcliff is described in the book as having dark skin. Casting director Karmel Cochrane has defended the choice, saying: “It’s just a book. It’s art. Wait until you see it, then decide.”
A Gothic Tradition Reborn
Wuthering Heights has seen countless screen adaptations, from William Wyler’s 1939 version to Andrea Arnold’s stripped-down 2011 take. But Fennell’s promises to be the most daring yet — a feverish, sensual, and deeply divisive retelling that isn’t afraid to scandalize.
Release Date
Mark your calendars: Wuthering Heights storms into theaters on Valentine’s Day 2026 — a fitting date for what may become the most talked-about romance (and controversy) of the year.
