Wuthering Heights review – outrageous naughty fun
The new film version of the classic Emily Brontë novel is a gleeful modern tribute.
The new film version of the classic Emily Brontë novel is a gleeful modern tribute.
First things first: do not watch this expecting a traditional adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel. Think of it instead as a gleeful modern tribute, inspired by the passion and humour of the 1847 original, with signature touches from Saltburn director Emerald Fennell.
The casting of producer Margot Robbie as the older Catherine – a teen in the novel – is a clear sign that this isn’t going to play by the book, but Robbie is terrific as the petulant, spoiled young woman who lets the class divide get in the way of her love for Heathcliff (Jacob Elordi).
Feelings only intensify after Cathy has married rich, dull Edgar (Shazad Latif). She’s trapped in an ostentatious mansion with one companion who loathes her, Nelly (Hong Chau); and another, Isabella (Alison Oliver), who has an obsession with her, Heathcliff and anything phallic.
Dark comedy and sexual symbolism abound in a fiercely feminine film with a pop video aesthetic. It’s knowingly silly at times, but it also delivers an intense reminder of the first flushes of love, a vivid sense of loss and longing, and a career-best performance from Martin Clunes, who plays Cathy’s father.
Outrageous, naughty fun.
Hero image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
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