Warner Bros. has confirmed that the highly anticipated adaptation of Wuthering Heights, directed by Emerald Fennell, will be released on February 13, 2026, just in time for Valentine’s Day. The film is based on Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel, which is widely regarded as a cornerstone of gothic literature.
Emerald Fennell, who will serve as writer, director, and producer, brings a unique vision to this iconic story. Fennell’s previous works, Saltburn and Promising Young Woman, have earned critical acclaim for their distinct, bold narratives, and her approach to Wuthering Heights is expected to follow suit. Fennell’s fascination with the gothic genre, which blends elements of horror, desire, and violence, will likely give the classic love story a dark and unsettling twist.
The adaptation stars Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, two iconic characters whose passionate and tragic love affair unfolds in the windswept moors of Yorkshire. The cast also includes Hong Chau, Alison Oliver, and Shazad Latif in supporting roles.
A Collaboration of Creative Forces
Wuthering Heights marks the second collaboration between Fennell, MRC, and Robbie’s production company LuckyChap Entertainment. The trio previously worked together on Saltburn, a breakout hit, and this marks their third collaboration with Fennell’s production team, having previously worked on Promising Young Woman.
The film’s production is backed by MRC and Robbie’s LuckyChap, both of which have a track record of supporting bold, visionary projects. This high-profile collaboration has garnered attention for its ambitious approach to the classic story, blending Fennell’s gothic sensibilities with the allure of modern cinema.
Warner Bros. Wins the Bidding War
The project generated significant buzz, especially when a bidding war broke out between studios. Netflix made a considerable offer of $150 million, but ultimately, the filmmakers decided to go with Warner Bros.’s $80 million bid. Warner’s pitch for a wide theatrical release and a full marketing campaign resonated with Fennell and her team, leading to the deal’s conclusion.
The film will be released in theaters, ensuring that audiences will have the opportunity to experience the haunting atmosphere of Wuthering Heights on the big screen. This choice indicates a strong belief in the film’s potential for commercial success, bolstered by Warner Bros.’s extensive marketing and distribution efforts.
Fennell’s Passion for the Gothic
Emerald Fennell’s interest in the gothic genre is no secret. In a January 2024 column for the Los Angeles Times, she shared her lifelong fascination with gothic stories, citing works by authors such as Angela Carter and Daphne du Maurier, as well as the dark illustrations of Edward Gorey. Fennell wrote, “The gothic world has always had me in its grip. It’s a genre where comedy and horror, revulsion and desire, sex and death are forever entwined, where every exchange is heavy with the threat of violence, or sex or both.”
This deep connection to the genre will likely influence the atmosphere of Wuthering Heights, making it a dark, unsettling, and emotionally charged adaptation.
What to Expect from the Film
The release of Wuthering Heights in February 2026 places it as a prime contender for both box office success and potential awards attention. With the combination of a renowned director, a star-studded cast, and a timeless story, expectations are high for this adaptation to resonate with both fans of the novel and newcomers to the world of Heathcliff and Catherine.
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