Wuthering Heights' Adaptation Aims for Steamy Romance

The new film version of the classic novel is a messy, over-the-top take that embraces its teen drama roots.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights, directed by Emerald Fennell, is a loose and provocative take on the classic novel that leans into the story's steamy romance and melodramatic elements. While it may not be as polished or faithful to the source material as other adaptations, the movie has a certain trashy appeal that the author describes as capturing the "quintessential middle-school movie" vibe.

Why it matters

Wuthering Heights has been adapted for film and television numerous times, but this new version aims to bring a fresh, edgy perspective to the timeless love story. By embracing the story's more sensational and over-the-top aspects, the film could potentially find a younger audience and introduce the classic tale to a new generation.

The details

The film stars Margot Robbie as Catherine and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, whose passionate but tumultuous relationship is the central focus. Fennell's direction leans into the visceral and sometimes confusing shifts in the characters' behavior, creating a sense of excitement and unpredictability. While the film may not be as polished or nuanced as some previous adaptations, the author argues that its messiness and "stunty, trashy romance" are part of its appeal, evoking the feel of a classic middle-school drama.

  • The new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights premiered in theaters in February 2026.

The players

Wuthering Heights

The classic novel by Emily Brontë, which has been adapted for film and television numerous times.

Emerald Fennell

The director of the new film adaptation, known for her provocative and visually striking approach to romance stories.

Margot Robbie

The actress who stars as Catherine Earnshaw in the new Wuthering Heights film.

Jacob Elordi

The actor who plays the role of Heathcliff in the new Wuthering Heights adaptation.

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What they’re saying

“I felt like I was 13 years old again this week, sitting in a theater watching the new movie 'Wuthering Heights.'”

— Kevin Fallon, Author (thedailybeast.com)

“There was a point in the movie when my friend leaned over and whispered, excitedly, 'This is just like Cruel Intentions!' And it is. And it's like Romeo + Juliet. 'Wuthering Heights' is not as good as either of those films. Not by a long shot. But it satisfies something that I think we all cinematically crave: outlandish, stunty, trashy romance. The quintessential middle-school movie.”

— Kevin Fallon, Author (thedailybeast.com)

What’s next

The new Wuthering Heights film is expected to generate significant interest and discussion, particularly among younger audiences drawn to its steamy and melodramatic take on the classic story. As the film continues to be released and reviewed, it will be interesting to see how it performs at the box office and whether it sparks a renewed interest in the Brontë novel.

The takeaway

The new Wuthering Heights adaptation embraces the story's inherent teenage drama and romance, creating a visually striking and unapologetically messy film that may not be to the taste of all critics, but could find a passionate following among viewers seeking an exciting and unconventional take on a literary classic.