One of the most controversial films of 2026 has arrived on streaming platforms, and fans are already calling it a masterpiece. Emerald Fennell's adaptation of Emily Brontë's classic novel Wuthering Heights was released in February and has grossed over $242 million at the box office, making it one of the year's highest-grossing films. The movie stars Margot Robbie as Cathy Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, and it has sparked intense debate among audiences and critics alike.
A Bold New Take on a Classic
Fennell's version diverges significantly from the original 1847 novel, cutting large portions of the narrative to focus on the tragic, obsessive relationship between Cathy and Heathcliff. The film features a soundtrack with songs by Charli XCX and includes explicit sexual imagery and BDSM scenes, leading some to label it 'less Wuthering Heights, more Fifty Shades of Grimm' and 'lurid and wildly over-sexed.'
Plot and Cast
The official synopsis describes the film as 'a passionate and tumultuous love story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors, exploring the intense and destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw.' Heathcliff, adopted as an orphan but treated poorly by Cathy's father (played by a grotesque Martin Clunes), runs away when he believes Cathy has rejected him after she pursues wealthy neighbor Edgar Linton (Shazad Latif) to save her family from poverty. His return years later sets off a chain of devastating events.
The cast also includes Owen Cooper from Adolescence as young Heathcliff, Alison Oliver, Oscar nominee Hong Chau, Charlotte Mellington, and House of the Dragon actor Ewan Mitchell.
Audience Reactions
Despite the controversy, many viewers are enthralled. 'Best movie ever. 100000% would watch so many more times,' wrote Evany on Rotten Tomatoes. Joanna added: 'The story is powerful, emotional, and unforgettable. It really pulls you in with its intense characters and deep love story, making it a film that stays with you long after watching.'
Wuthering Heights is streaming now on HBO Max and NOW (with a movies package) in the UK.
