Emerald Fennell's "Wuthering Heights" was always going to divide audiences, with many coming to conclusions prior to watching the film. Fennell takes inspiration from Emily Brontë's novel to create a new version of Wuthering Heights rather than an adaptation. Whilst the story differs, the sole focus upon Cathy and Heathcliff in the present rather than a recalled version of events, Fennell manages to create a compelling narrative. The film has sparks of perfection. Although "Wuthering Heights" is a sweeping tragedy it falls short of its potential which would have put it on course for a best picture nomination. Read on for my full review - minor spoilers ahead.
The films opening sequence on the Yorkshire Moors is captivating, showcasing gothic qualities reminiscent of the book. The visual of the harsh landscape, the rocks that tower like a cage around Wuthering Heights, accompanied by Charlie XCX and John Cale's 'House' is dramatic and haunted. It gives us a taste of what a gothic interpretation could look like, but Fennell chooses to lean away from the gothic, instead giving us colour and spectacle. The style is intricate and beautiful almost reminiscent of a fairytale at times. A cold fairytale that we know not to get caught up in because we know the tragic way the story ends and yet we do get caught up. Visually there is nothing to fault, the costumes, sets and props are stunning, a pure delight to behold.
Fennell not only alters the narrative and the setting, the characters differ from their novel counterparts, they are more palatable, but not fully altered. Margot Robbie's Cathy is spiteful and dramatic, someone that constantly fights her impulses, unable to stop herself even when she fears the punishment for her actions. Robbie delivers an impressive performance, the star of the film that everyone is in love with. Jacob Elordi's Heathcliff is desperate and cruel. Just when you begin to believe Cathy and Heathcliff are decent people, the film reminds us of who they are. Cathy and Heathcliff are not supposed to be likeable, their one redeemable quality is they love one another. A love that consumes them and destroys everything around them. Fennell, Robbie and Elordi capture this destruction perfectly, eventually ripping the hearts out of viewers as the film concludes. You will route for them even knowing the tragic path that lies ahead.
Ever in the background is Hong Chau's Nelly, manipulating the narrative, both a victim and an instigator in the tragic love story. Nelly is a constant at Cathy's side, enduring a harsh childhood at Wuthering Heights. Martin Clunes delivering a career best performance as Mr. Earnshaw. Nelly eventually ensures her escape through Cathys' Marriage. A marriage that sees Cathy transported by Mr. Linton (Shazad Latif) to world of luxury and whimsey, a pure fantasy. A life that never fully satisfies her the way being married to Heathcliff might have, although I fear nothing would have made Cathy truly happy. But even when Heathcliff returns, him holding Cathy accountable for breaking both their hearts, Cathy is still unable to find happiness. Whilst most of the characters are brought to life well within the context of the film Isabella Linton (Alison Oliver) faces monumental characterisation assassination. Oliver does a fantastic job of the role she was given, but unfortunately her married scenes to Heathcliff are distasteful in their provocative nature.
The film is as close to perfection you can get without actually crossing into the category. Whilst the visuals are sensational, they are limited, the most striking shots not lingered on long enough for my liking. There are several transitions which could have been breathtaking, yet failed to materialise. Then there is the provocative scenes, scenes that have been wildly over marketed and most of which are nothing more than you would see in other period dramas (think Bridgeton but with less nudity). Some of which fit perfectly within the narrative, but it is a case of less would have been more. The insinuations of kneading bread and slugs on glass and so on, did not enhance the film, they felt forced and took from the overall tragic themes. The film would have more impactful without. There are also a few pacing issues where the film is unable to sustain its breathless pace which is a shame.
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Overall, "Wuthering Heights" is a spectacle, a harrowing tragedy that rips the hearts and souls from its characters and will leave audiences crying into the credits. Fennell almost creates greatness but chooses provocative moments rather than leaning into style which is disappointing. Nonetheless there is a lot to be captivated by, "Wuthering Heights" is a daring, visual reimagining that is equal parts romantic, consuming and tragic. Certainly a must watch, that will have you thinking about it days later. |
4 stars.
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