Emerald Fennell Has Titanic Expectations for Wuthering Heights

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The team behind the new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights has ambitious goals, and they’re aiming for a major cultural impact. Director Emerald Fennell told star and producer Margot Robbie that she wants the film to be as popular and iconic as Titanic, which has earned over $2 billion since its release in 1997. In a recent interview with British Vogue, Robbie explained that Fennell wants to create a gothic and captivating version of the Brontë classic that will deeply resonate with audiences, much like Fennell’s own experience with Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet. Fennell apparently saw the film eight times and was devastated when she couldn’t go back for a ninth, and that’s the level of emotional connection she hopes to achieve with this new adaptation.

Comparisons have been made between Jacob Elordi and Leonardo DiCaprio, suggesting he’ll be a similar heartthrob for a new generation. However, Margot Robbie believes Elordi’s talent reaches an even higher level, comparing him to Daniel Day-Lewis. She specifically praised his portrayal of Heathcliff, the brooding and passionate hero of Wuthering Heights. The casting has sparked discussion because some readers envisioned Heathcliff as a person of color, based on Emily Brontë’s description of him. While Robbie didn’t directly address this controversy, she strongly defended Elordi, pointing out that many previous actors who’ve played the role – including Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton, Ralph Fiennes, and Tom Hardy – were white. She urged audiences to trust her judgment, saying, “Just wait. You’ll be happy.” Wuthering Heights has a strong legacy to uphold, and Robbie is confident Elordi will deliver a memorable performance.

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2025-12-04 20:54