In anticipation of Valentine's Day, on February 13, a new version of the classic novel 'Wuthering Heights' will be released worldwide. This interpretation has garnered not only the attention of film critics but also a flurry of discussions. Some find it inspiring and emotional, while others consider it provocative and too distant from the literary original.
From Classic to Modern Provocation
The plot remains true to the main themes: the rootless Heathcliff grows up among his adopted siblings and does not hide his passion for Catherine Earnshaw, but social differences hinder their union. Nevertheless, the new film differs significantly from traditional adaptations.
The main character is played by Margot Robbie, known for her role in Barbie — her bright image and appearance have already sparked critical responses from fans of the classic: the original Catherine had dark hair and brown eyes, but the modern interpretation looks different. Similarly, the portrayal of Heathcliff by Jacob Elordi is far from the dark figure in Brontë's novel and is closer to characters from series like Bridgerton.
Bold Costumes and Visual Solutions
One of the most discussed aspects has been the style and costumes. Working on the images, costume designer Jacqueline Durran combined elements from various eras and modern materials, including bright colors and synthetic fabrics. The final visual palette sometimes surprises and even draws criticism for straying from Victorian authenticity.
Erotic Tone and Crescendo of Passion
What truly distinguishes this version from previous ones is the boldness in depicting intimate scenes. While in Brontë's original novel, the love between the characters is described emotionally but without explicit details, the new adaptation presents Catherine and Heathcliff's relationship through the lens of physical passion and sensual tension. Early viewers who have seen the film at private screenings note that the film appears more hypersexual than most adaptations of classic literature.
Some plot elements and explicit scenes have already been compared to provocations like the shocking moments from the trailer of Wuthering Heights with Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, which sparked debates about the level of sexual content and even accusations of soft-porn traits due to the intense chemistry between the main characters.
Why the Taste of Classics Sparks Controversy
The story of 'Wuthering Heights,' written by Emily Brontë, was originally uncomfortable for Victorian audiences: it was labeled dark, immoral, and overly emotional. Now, the new production provokes similar debates, but due to its visual provocations and approach to romantic relationships. Many fans believe that the directorial decision to move towards bright, sensual scenes is a departure from the traditional interpretation of the narrative, where internal conflict and passion were revealed more subtly.
