Wuthering Heights Sparks Costume Uproar Before Premiere

With the much-discussed adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic on the horizon, anticipation has been matched by a fair bit of commotion. The film, featuring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, has once again found itself at the centre of a row—this time, over its approach to period dress.

Costume designer Jacqueline Durran, in a recent interview, made it clear that the production has not stuck to the expected historical script. Although the story unfolds in late 18th-century England, Durran explained that the team opted for a more eclectic approach. Rather than anchoring the wardrobe to a specific era, they cherry-picked styles and images that suited each character. As she put it,

Our dates are all confused in the sense that we’re not representing a moment in time at all – we’re just picking images or styles that we like for each character. Heathcliff has always been a sort of Georgian-era hero, and we thought that really worked for Jacob.

For those who prefer their literary adaptations to be sticklers for detail, the prospect of seeing characters in anachronistic attire—perhaps even the odd pair of sunglasses—has not gone down well. The film’s high profile has only intensified scrutiny, with both supporters and sceptics watching closely for any missteps.

Previous Casting Controversies

This isn’t the first time the production has attracted criticism. Earlier, the casting of Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff raised eyebrows. Brontë’s original text describes Heathcliff as a “dark-skinned gipsy,” a detail that many felt was overlooked when a white actor was chosen for the role. The decision prompted accusations of whitewashing, with some arguing that the adaptation was erasing a key aspect of the character’s identity.

Although the initial backlash eventually quietened, the film has struggled to shake off controversy. The debate over authenticity—whether in casting or costume—has kept the adaptation firmly in the public eye, with many wondering if it can win over audiences despite the noise.

Emerald Fennell’s Unconventional Vision

Director Emerald Fennell appears to be steering the project in a direction that could set a new precedent for literary adaptations. Rather than striving for meticulous period accuracy, the film seems to embrace a more modern sensibility, blending elements from different times to create something distinct. The lead performances from Robbie and Elordi are expected to draw crowds, but it’s the film’s willingness to break with tradition that may prove most memorable.

Some suggest this approach could inspire future adaptations to take similar liberties, updating classic works with contemporary flourishes. Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but it’s clear that the film is not content to simply retread familiar ground.

Key Details and Release Information

Directed by Emerald Fennell, the film boasts a cast including Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi, and Hong Chau. It is scheduled for release on 13 February 2026, with production handled by MRC. As the premiere date approaches, debate continues to swirl around the creative choices made by the team.

Are you looking forward to seeing how this bold take on Brontë’s tale unfolds? Share your thoughts below.