We’re not even half way through the year, but one of 2026’s most controversial films – unlikely to be dethroned – has arrived on streaming.
Released in time for Valentine’s Day and becoming one of the highest grossing films this year so far with $242million at the box office, Emmerald Fennell’s adaptation of Wuthering Heights caused a big stir.
It did away with a large chunk of the narrative from Emily Brontë’s original 1847 novel – to many readers’ outrage – and focused more on the tragedy and yearning between central characters Cathy Earnshaw (Margot Robbie) and Heathcliff (Jacob Elordi).
The movie’s bold provocation, including songs on its soundtrack by Charli XCX as well as explicitly sexual imagery and scenes of BDSM, saw it labelled ‘less Wuthering Heights, more Fifty Shades of Grimm’ and ‘lurid and wildly over-sexed’.
The film’s official synopsis describe it as ‘a passionate and tumultuous love story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors, exploring the intense and destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw’.
Adopted as an orphan sibling but treated poorly by Cathy’s father (a grotesque Martin Clunes), Heathcliff runs away when he thinks he has been rejected by Cathy after she sets her cap at wealthy new neighbour Edgar Linton (Shazad Latif) in a bid to save the family from poverty.
To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web
browser that
supports HTML5
video
But his return years later sets a string of devastating events in motion.
The film’s cast also includes Adolescence star Owen Cooper as the young Heathcliff, Alison Oliver, Oscar nominee Hong Chau, Charlotte Mellington and House of the Dragon actor Ewan Mitchell.
‘Best movie ever. 100000% would watch so may more times,’ insisted Evany on review aggreagator site Rotten Tomatoes, while Joanna agreed, adding: ‘The story is powerful, emotional, and unforgettable. It really pulls you in with its intense characters and deep love story, making it a film that stays with you long after watching.’
Wuthering Heights is streaming now on HBO Max and NOW (with a movies package) in the UK.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.