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BDSM, Bodice Rips: Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights' Misfire
9 Feb
Summary
- Emerald Fennell's adaptation is a stylized, emotionally hollow misfire.
- Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi are underutilized in the film.
- Martin Clunes's performance as the father is a standout element.
Emerald Fennell's "Wuthering Heights" adaptation transforms Emily Brontë's classic into a high-fashion, relentlessly silly production, described as a 20-page fashion shoot with ripped bodices and BDSM elements. The film reportedly misuses stars Margot Robbie as Cathy and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, leading to a critique of emotional hollowness.
Despite the central performances falling short, Martin Clunes is highlighted for his standout role as Cathy's father. Fennell's adaptation also notably removes the character of Hindley and the novel's second half concerning the next generation, while downplaying Heathcliff's dark skin.
The narrative follows Cathy's fraught relationship with Heathcliff, her marriage to Edgar Linton for financial security, and Heathcliff's subsequent return. The portrayal of his cruelty to Isabella Linton is reportedly made light of, with Isabella presented as a consenting participant.
Critics find the film to be quasi-erotic and pseudo-romantic, lacking the raw impact of Fennell's previous works or Andrea Arnold's earlier adaptation. The style is described as frantically Baz Luhrmann-esque, resembling a lengthy music video.
