Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights: A Disappointing Adaptation
What Went Wrong with Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights?
Emerald Fennell’s adaptation of Wuthering Heights has been a topic of discussion since its announcement. The film’s casting choices, particularly Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff and Margot Robbie as Catherine, raised eyebrows. Despite a promising marketing campaign, the film failed to deliver, feeling more like a music video or perfume ad than a genuine adaptation.
The film’s problems stem from several key mistakes. Firstly, the erasure of Hindley Earnshaw, Catherine’s older brother, removes a crucial element of the story, including the theme of male rivalry and the struggle for the Earnshaw estate. This omission leaves the film feeling hollow and lacking in substance.
Furthermore, the misconception of Catherine Earnshaw is another significant issue. Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Catherine lacks the depth and complexity of the character in the novel. Her behaviour, which should be a commentary on the social position of women, comes across as merely bratty and irritating.
The marginalisation of Edgar Linton is also a notable problem. In the novel, Edgar is a well-rounded character who serves as a contrast to Catherine and Heathcliff. However, in the film, he is reduced to a demanding and despotic figure, making his relationship with Catherine seem absurd.
Additionally, the film’s treatment of Isabella Linton is disappointing. Her character is reduced to a quirky, annoying figure, and her storyline is altered to include a poorly written BDSM romance. This change kills the psychological subtleties of the novel and turns Isabella into a caricature.
The film also fails to deliver on social commentary, abandoning themes of class struggle and feminist reflection. The characters lack emotional depth, and the female characters are particularly one-dimensional, being portrayed as mostly horny, mean, or stupid.
Finally, the film’s approach to eroticism is lacking in creativity and subtlety. The sex scenes, despite being numerous, are tedious and cold, resembling music videos more than genuine romantic encounters.
