Emerald Fennell’s adaptation of the classic novel “Wuthering Heights” won’t stray away from controversy, yet the filming has barely even started.
Over the weekend, a series of leaked photos of “Barbie” star Margot Robbie in a medieval braid and a modernized wedding dress – an off-the-shoulder white number with 1980s-inspired elements – drew criticism for historical inaccuracy, as white wedding dresses became popular only after Queen Victoria’s 1840 marriage, long after the story takes place.
Though she might be one of Hollywood’s hottest stars, Robbie has been continuously slammed after she was announced as Fennell’s Catherine. One of the biggest points of contention is that Margot Robbie is 34, while Catherine Earnshaw is a teenager for most of the novel and famously dies at 19 years old. Much of the character’s tragedy comes from her immaturity, recklessness and naivety – casting an older actress will alter how audiences perceive Catherine’s decisions.
Robbie’s age is, however, not the only thing sparking up debate. When it was first announced, fans were enraged with the casting choices, since the two actors chosen to bring these characters to life couldn’t fit their descriptions any less. The main point of controversy resides on how Fennell went for two actors who perfectly fit Hollywood’s beauty standards, making them appear too refined and polished rather than the untamed, earthy characters described in the book. Jacob Elordi’s casting as Heathcliff, especially, was perceived as nonsensical, since Brontë explicitly describes him as “dark-skinned”.
Written by Emily Brontë and published in 1847 under the pseudonym Ellis Bell, the novel stands as one the most beloved pieces of English Literature. Due to Brontë’s haunting storytelling and morally ambiguous characters, “Wuthering Heights” is regarded as a masterpiece of Gothic literature since modern audiences still connect with it, proving its everlasting appeal.
The tragedy, set in the wild moors of Yorkshire, revolves around antihero Heathcliff and the obsessive, destructive relationship he shares with step-sister Catherine Earnshow. Even though both characters share a deep, passionate love, our female lead chooses to marry a wealthy man for social status, leaving poor Heathcliff to spiral into a very unhealthy obsession which ultimately drives a series of tragic events.
While Emerald Fennell (Promising Young Woman, Saltburn) is known for bold, subversive takes on classic themes, some fans worry she might alter the novel’s themes too much. Could this be a new artistic take on the beloved classic? Though it’s uncertain, it seems like the film will struggle to win over fans.
