The first teaser for Emerald Fennell’s 2026 adaptation of Wuthering Heights was released on September 3, drawing considerable attention to the palpable chemistry between Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie. Fans and critics alike have been analyzing the dynamic between the two leads, highlighting the intensity expected in the much-anticipated film.
The movie, inspired by Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel, tells the tumultuous and tragic story of Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. Elordi takes on the role of Heathcliff, while Robbie stars as Catherine, as the classic tale of love and heartbreak is reimagined for a modern audience.
The teaser was shared on the official X account for the film, accompanied by a striking poster. A remix of Charli XCX’s “Everything Is Romantic” serves as the soundtrack, adding a contemporary edge to the preview, while also highlighting the steamy and provocative nature of this adaptation. The chemistry between Elordi and Robbie was immediately evident to viewers.
Strong Reactions to Elordi and Robbie’s Chemistry and Casting Choices
In the story of Wuthering Heights, Heathcliff and Catherine grow up together after Heathcliff, an orphan, is taken in by the Earnshaw family. Their relationship evolves from a deep spiritual connection in childhood to a romantic and intense bond in adulthood, a transformation that this film aims to capture authentically. Jacob Elordi, famous for his role in Euphoria, and Margot Robbie, known for Barbie, appear to embody this complex relationship with convincing passion.
Social media users responded enthusiastically to the teaser, especially praising the casting. Comments included:
“I’m seated for the insane cinematography & for Margot Robbie & Jacob Elordi’s chemistry.”
—X user
“Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi definitely have the chemistry to make this intense story work.”
—X user
“Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi as Catherine and Heathcliff are perfect casting choices. Can’t wait to see their chemistry bring this classic to life!”
—X user
Concerns Raised Over Adaptation Faithfulness and Creative Choices
Despite the excitement over the lead performances, several viewers expressed apprehension about the film’s faithfulness to Brontë’s original novel. Some feared the adaptation might over-romanticize the story in a manner similar to modern romantic dramas rather than respect its darker themes.
A user wrote on X,
“why is this being so romanticised like emily bronte did NOT write fifty shades of grey…. also releasing on valentines day as if its some romcom..?”
—X user
Questions and frustrations also surfaced about the casting, mainly focusing on the ethnicity and age of the actors chosen to portray Heathcliff and Catherine. Critics pointed out that Heathcliff’s character historically faces prejudice connected to his ambiguous heritage, and the casting of a white actor raised concerns about losing this crucial narrative element.
One user asked,
“Why is Heathcliff white? The whole point of the story was that bad things keep happening to him because of his appearance due to prejudice and racism.”
—X user
Another emphasized,
“HEATHCLIFF. IS. NOT. WHITE. CATHERINE. IS. NOT. BLONDE. OR. 35.”
—X user
There was also criticism regarding the modern soundtrack by Charli XCX, with some viewers feeling that her music style clashes with the period drama’s tone and atmosphere. Suggestions leaned towards a more traditional or era-appropriate score.
Comments included,
“I don’t dislike charli but she has to be in like the top 10 worst choices for the soundtrack of WUTHERING HEIGHTS.”
—X user
and
“Why is a charli xcx song playing in a period drama that’s a wuthering heights adaptation.”
—X user
Anticipation Builds Amid Mixed Opinions
This upcoming adaptation will be the 16th cinematic retelling of Wuthering Heights since 1920, making it a significant entry in the legacy of Emily Brontë’s work. While the teaser has sparked debate — with praise for Jacob Elordi Wuthering Heights chemistry clashing with concerns about casting and music choices — the true test lies in how the final film will be received upon release.
Wuthering Heights is slated to premiere in theaters on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026, marking a noteworthy date for a story that explores love in its most intense and complicated forms. The film’s reception will likely influence discussions about how classic literature can be adapted for modern audiences while preserving its essential themes and social commentary.
