Emerald Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights' Divides Critics

The director's bold take on the classic novel has sparked polarized reactions, which is a good thing for cinema.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Emerald Fennell's latest film, an adaptation of Emily Brontë's 'Wuthering Heights', has received wildly divergent reviews from critics. While some praise the director's singular vision and the film's style, others find it hollow and overly stylized. The author argues that this polarized reaction is a positive sign, as it sparks meaningful discussion around the film and the art of adaptation.

Why it matters

Fennell's bold approach to adapting a literary classic has reignited the debate around how filmmakers should handle revered source material. The mixed reviews highlight how subjective the experience of watching a film can be, and how differing perspectives can lead to engaging conversations about the nature of cinema.

The details

Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights' has received a range of reviews, from glowing five-star praise to scathing one-star pans. Critics have praised the film's style and Margot Robbie's performance as Catherine, while others have found it overly stylized and 'hollow'. The author argues that Fennell likely relishes this divisive reaction, as it shows she has crafted a film that challenges and provokes rather than playing it safe.

  • Emerald Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights' was released in 2026.

The players

Emerald Fennell

The director of 'Wuthering Heights' and the Oscar-winning 'Promising Young Woman', known for her bold and singular vision.

Margot Robbie

The acclaimed actress who stars as Catherine in Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights'.

Jacob Elordi

The actor who portrays the brooding Heathcliff in Fennell's adaptation.

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The takeaway

Emerald Fennell's bold and divisive adaptation of 'Wuthering Heights' is a testament to the power of cinema to provoke strong, differing reactions. Rather than aiming for universal appeal, Fennell has crafted a film that challenges viewers and sparks meaningful discussions about the art of adaptation and the subjective nature of the moviegoing experience.