Emerald Fennell unveils bold first trailer for Wuthering Heights adaptation
Oscar-winning filmmaker Emerald Fennell is reimagining Emily Brontë’s gothic classic Wuthering Heights with a daring, sensual twist. The first trailer has dropped, teasing a provocative take on one of literature’s most turbulent love stories.
Starring Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, the film promises passion, obsession, and rebellion. The cast also features Hong Chau, Martin Clunes, and rising actor Owen Cooper.
The project made headlines in 2024 after Warner Bros secured the rights for $80 million, outbidding Netflix’s $150 million offer, with both Fennell and Robbie insisting on a theatrical release.
Early test screenings divided audiences, with some describing the film as “provocative and visually striking.” The marketing campaign has already fueled conversation, with striking billboards across the UK and US bearing the tagline: “Drive Me Mad.”
Fennell, best known for Promising Young Woman and the controversial hit Saltburn, has once again sparked debate with her bold creative choices. Casting Elordi as Heathcliff has drawn criticism from purists, who argue the novel describes Heathcliff as having darker skin. Casting director Karmel Cochrane defended the decision, saying:
> “It’s art. You don’t need to be strictly accurate to honor the story.”
Margot Robbie, fresh from the global success of Barbie, will next star opposite Colin Farrell in A Big Bold Beautiful Journey. Elordi, who rose to fame on HBO’s Euphoria, is set to appear in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein after this release.
Wuthering Heights has been adapted many times, from William Wyler’s 1939 classic to Andrea Arnold’s 2011 version—but Fennell’s take is shaping up to be the most audacious yet.
The film is set for a Valentine’s Day 2026 release.
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Valentine’s Day 2026 release