By The classic novel by Emily Bronte has been given a new interpretation with “Wuthering Heights” which while taking liberties with the storyline; gives and updated and darker take on the story.
Margot Robbie stars as Catherine who along with her domineering father oversees a founding she names Heathcliff after her dead brother. The two children grow into adulthood, and their natural attraction grows and becomes difficult as Catherine has accepted a marriage proposal to a wealthy individual.
Though she loves Heathcliff, he has no social standing or prospects, and Catherine opts for a life of ease and luxury. Upon hearing part of her confession, Heathcliff leaves and Catherine marries and goes on with her life.
Five years later Heathcliff returns as a dashing and successful individual with money and Catherine and her begin a twisted game of revenge and manipulation including clandestine rendezvous and risky encounters.
Their cruelty extends to those around them resulting in increasing misery and difficulties as neither is unwilling to move on and they take odd delight in their situation oblivious to those around them.
Jacob Elordi is fantastic as Heathcliff as is Margot Robbie in her portrayal. The movie is visually striking as we see the cold climate and changes in the weather accented by the contrasting homes and clothing the characters wear. The movie deviates from the book considerably as it would be fair to say that aspects are more inspired by than adapted. The main issue I had was that the leads, despite being amazing in their performances, were playing characters who were so manipulative and dark that I truly did not want either of them to have a happy ending. I was also surprised how restrained some of the more erotic moments of the film were as many things were more implied or mimed than a flesh fest as I had expected the film to go further with an R-rating than it did.
Despite this the movie works largely thanks to the cast as the dark tale keeps you riveted and the leads are amazing to watch and hopefully will be paired again on a future project.
3.5 stars out of 5
