Wuthering Heights Remake Tops Box Office with $34.8M Debut

Emerald Fennell's bold reimagining of the classic novel draws mostly female audiences.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Emerald Fennell's new adaptation of the Emily Brontë novel 'Wuthering Heights' debuted at #1 at the North American box office this weekend, earning $34.8 million. The Warner Bros. release, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, drew an estimated 76% female audience. The romantic drama outperformed other new releases like the animated film 'GOAT' and the thriller 'Crime 101' over the Presidents Day holiday weekend.

Why it matters

The strong opening for 'Wuthering Heights' demonstrates the commercial power of female-driven stories and the continued audience demand for reimagined classic literature. The film's performance also highlights the success of female filmmakers like Emerald Fennell, who directed and co-wrote the project.

The details

The $80 million production cost of 'Wuthering Heights' is expected to be recouped through its $82 million global debut. While the film received mixed reviews, with a 63% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences gave it a less enthusiastic B CinemaScore. The movie still has several major international markets to open in the coming weeks.

  • The film opened in North American theaters on February 15, 2026.
  • It is expected to earn an additional $6 million over the Presidents Day holiday on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Emerald Fennell

The director and co-writer of the 'Wuthering Heights' remake.

Margot Robbie

The actress who stars as Catherine in the film.

Jacob Elordi

The actor who plays Heathcliff in the 'Wuthering Heights' remake.

Warner Bros.

The studio that released the 'Wuthering Heights' film.

MRC

The production company behind the 'Wuthering Heights' remake.

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What they’re saying

“Powered by women, 'Wuthering Heights' digs up $34.8 million at the box office for a No. 1 debut”

— Lindsey Bahr (castanet.net)

What’s next

The film is expected to open in several major international markets in the coming weeks, including Japan and Vietnam on February 27 and China on March 13.

The takeaway

Emerald Fennell's bold reimagining of the classic 'Wuthering Heights' novel has resonated with audiences, particularly women, and demonstrates the commercial viability of female-driven stories and the continued popularity of classic literature adaptations.