Wuthering Heights (2026): A gothic romance returns for Valentine's Day
A closer look at the recent film adaptation by Emerald Fennell, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi
The past few years have seen a surge in new movie adaptations of older films and books. Films such as Twisters, The Little Mermaid and Wicked have been released in the last few years with modern twists. On Feb. 13, another classic romance novel will be brought to the screen. The story originates from Emily Brontë’s classic 1847 gothic romance novel, Wuthering Heights.
Led by Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, the film has generated high expectations. Robbie recently starred in the Barbie movie, which set records as the highest-grossing live-action comedy of all time. Elordi also achieved success in his 2025 film Frankenstein, winning the Critics’ Choice Award for best supporting actor.
The two have joined together to retell the English love story of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff. Since childhood, the two characters have always loved each other, but as the story unfolds, their class differences drive them apart. This leads to Heathcliff’s rise to wealth and Catherine’s life in her prosperous marriage with the successful Edgar Linton. Though they go their separate ways, fate eventually brings them back together.
The book continues the story through Catherine and Heathcliff’s children. The forbidden love story seems to come full circle when Heathcliff’s ward starts to fall for Catherine’s daughter. The reader has to question whether the historical love story will repeat itself.
While the book follows the generational love triangle, the movie seems to focus on the first 23 chapters of Brontë’s novel, following Catherine and Heathcliff’s forbidden relationship. Will the two end up happily ever after, or will their differences keep them apart eternally? It all unfolds in theaters on Feb. 13.
It’s no accident that this gothic romance was released on Valentine’s Day weekend. Margot Robbie says, “That was always the plan … and it felt like the perfect weekend.”
Wuthering Heights is shaping up to be a can’t-miss romantic experience, perfect for couples looking to celebrate with a memorable date night. Industry tracking suggests this film could bring in upward of $40 million on opening weekend alone.
So, whether you’re celebrating the holiday of love with family, friends or that special someone, be sure to get your tickets now. This film is set to be one of the romantic highlights of the year on screen.