Wuthering Heights Movie 2026: Release Date, Cast & Latest Updates

Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, published in 1847, remains one of the most enduring classics of English literature. This Gothic tale of intense, destructive passion between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, set against the wild Yorkshire moors, explores themes of love, revenge, class, and obsession with raw emotional power.

The upcoming 2026 film adaptation, directed by Emerald Fennell, brings fresh attention to this timeless story. Known for her bold, provocative style in films like Promising Young Woman and Saltburn, Fennell offers a modern, visually striking take that has generated significant buzz. This adaptation stands out due to its high-profile cast and its timing for a Valentine’s Day release, appealing to both literary fans and contemporary audiences.

This article provides the latest factual updates on the film’s release date, cast, production details, and more, based on official announcements and reliable reports.

2. Movie Announcement & Background

The project was announced in July 2024 by Emerald Fennell via social media, revealing her plans to write and direct an adaptation of Brontë’s novel. After a competitive bidding process, Warner Bros. Pictures secured the rights, outbidding other platforms like Netflix. Production companies include MRC, Lie Still, and LuckyChap Entertainment (Margot Robbie’s banner).

Emerald Fennell serves as director and screenwriter, drawing from her signature blend of drama, sensuality, and psychological depth. The film is described as a loose interpretation rather than a strict page-to-screen transfer.

Previous adaptations of Wuthering Heights include the 1939 version starring Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon (directed by William Wyler), the 1992 film with Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche, and others like the 1970 musical version. Fennell’s version is noted for its contemporary edge and emphasis on passion.

3. Release Date

The film is scheduled for theatrical release on February 13, 2026, in the United States and United Kingdom, perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day weekend. International markets begin from February 11, 2026, in select regions. It will screen in IMAX, Dolby Cinema, and premium formats.

No major delays have been reported since the initial announcement. Distribution is handled by Warner Bros. Pictures globally, ensuring wide availability in theaters. No official streaming or digital release details have been confirmed yet, as the focus remains on theatrical rollout.

4. Cast

Margot Robbie stars as Catherine Earnshaw (Cathy), portraying the passionate, conflicted heroine. Robbie, an Academy Award nominee known for roles in Barbie, The Wolf of Wall Street, and I, Tonya, brings her charisma and intensity to the part.

Jacob Elordi plays Heathcliff, the brooding, vengeful orphan. Elordi, recognized from Euphoria, Saltburn, and Priscilla, reunites with Fennell after Saltburn and delivers a magnetic performance in the iconic role.

Supporting cast includes Hong Chau as Nelly Dean (the Earnshaws’ maid and narrator figure), an Oscar nominee from The Whale and Poor Things. Shazad Latif portrays Edgar Linton, Catherine’s husband, known for Star Trek: Discovery. Alison Oliver plays Isabella Linton, from Saltburn. Martin Clunes and Ewan Mitchell feature in key supporting roles. Owen Cooper appears as young Heathcliff.

5. Crew & Creative Team

Emerald Fennell directs and writes the screenplay, also producing.

Producers include Fennell, Josey McNamara (Oscar nominee), and Margot Robbie via LuckyChap Entertainment. Executive producers are Sara Desmond and Tom Ackerley.

Cinematography and other technical roles emphasize a lush, atmospheric visual style, though specific names beyond the core team are not highlighted in announcements. The score and music team contribute to the film’s moody, intense tone.

6. Plot Summary (Expected or Official)

The film follows the passionate and tumultuous relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff on the Yorkshire moors. Their forbidden love evolves into obsession, leading to themes of revenge, madness, and tragedy.

It is a loose adaptation, focusing on the core romance while incorporating bold interpretations. Changes include emphasizing sensuality and passion, with some structural shifts (such as condensing elements from the novel’s second half). Fennell has described it as evoking the primal emotions she felt reading the book as a teenager, with a modern, provocative lens.

7. Production Details

Filming took place in the Yorkshire Dales, capturing the wild, windswept landscapes central to the story. Production wrapped ahead of the release schedule.

Behind-the-scenes insights highlight Fennell’s collaborative approach with actors, encouraging raw performances. The visual style is described as sumptuous and psychedelic in parts, with attention to period details blended with bold creative choices. The budget is reported around $80 million, supporting high production values.

8. Trailers & Teasers

An official teaser and full trailer have been released via Warner Bros., showcasing intense romantic sequences, moody moors, and the leads’ chemistry. The trailer highlights themes of lust, love, and madness, with taglines like “Drive me mad.”

Fan reactions have been strong, with social media buzzing over the visuals and cast performances. Media coverage notes the trailer’s provocative tone, building anticipation.

9. Marketing & Promotion

Warner Bros. has launched a robust campaign, including posters featuring Robbie and Elordi in dramatic poses against the moors. Social media activity includes cast interviews and behind-the-scenes content. Press tours have featured Robbie and Elordi discussing their roles.

The Valentine’s Day timing ties into romantic promotions. No major partnerships or tie-ins are detailed, but the campaign emphasizes the film’s passionate narrative.

10. Early Reviews & Reception

Early reactions from critics are divided, with some praising the lush visuals, performances, and bold direction, while others critique it as superficial or overly stylized. Positive notes highlight Robbie’s dazzling portrayal and Elordi’s brooding intensity. Audience expectations are high, fueled by the cast and Fennell’s track record.

Festival screenings or previews have generated mixed but passionate responses, with discussions around its provocative elements.

11. Box Office Predictions / Expectations

Analysts project a strong opening, with estimates of $70-80 million globally for the debut weekend, boosted by IMAX and premium formats across thousands of screens. The Valentine’s timing and star power (Robbie and Elordi) are seen as advantages.

Compared to previous adaptations, which had varying success, this version benefits from modern marketing and a high-profile team. Expectations are optimistic in key markets like the US, UK, and India, where period romances and star-driven films perform well.

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12. Conclusion

Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights brings a fresh, intense vision to Emily Brontë’s classic, with standout performances from Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, a February 13, 2026, release, and significant promotional momentum. While interpretations vary, the film’s bold style and thematic focus on passion ensure it will spark conversation.

As the release approaches, anticipation remains high for what could be a memorable addition to the legacy of this enduring story. Indian audiences can look forward to its theatrical arrival soon.