Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi on Emerald Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights'

Variety

by Angelique Jackson

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Director Emerald Fennell has brought a fresh, provocative twist to Emily Brontë’s classic novel *Wuthering Heights*, casting Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi as Cathy and Heathcliff in a bold reimagining of their toxic love story. Fennell, who first fell in love with the book as a teenager, was drawn to its raw emotional depth and themes of desire and repression. Decades later, she decided to adapt the novel for the screen, aiming to create a film that would evoke a physical response from audiences. The result is a visually stunning and emotionally charged interpretation that stays true to Brontë’s core themes while adding new layers of intensity. Fennell’s adaptation introduces heightened physical intimacy, including a memorable scene where Cathy masturbates under her skirts after witnessing another couple’s steamy encounter with Heathcliff. This moment underscores the novel’s exploration of forbidden desire and repression, which resonated deeply with Fennell when she first read it as a teenager. “I just adore it,” she said. “The moment I read it, it just broke me open.” Despite her admiration for Brontë’s masterpiece, Fennell approached the project with humility, acknowledging the challenge of adapting such an iconic work while hoping to connect with audiences on a personal level. Fennell’s casting choices reflect her vision for the film. She specifically chose Elordi to play Heathcliff after being inspired by his “Saltburn”造型, which reminded her of the character’s classic image. Elordi, who had long admired Robbie’s work, jumped at the chance to collaborate with her and Fennell, calling them “the true package” in terms of artistic talent. The pair’s chemistry on screen is evident, bringing a fiery intensity to the notoriously stormy relationship between Cathy and Heathcliff. For fans of *Wuthering Heights*, Fennell’s adaptation offers a fresh perspective on a beloved classic. By blending emotional depth with provocative visuals, she has created a film that feels both timeless and contemporary. The result is a bold new take

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Originally published on Variety on 2/13/2026