Arcana Cinema

I recently watched the film “Wuthering Heights,” directed by Emerald Fennell. Right off the bat, I would like to say that I really enjoyed this movie and only have good things to say, so I apologize if that is not what you came here for…. The film stars Margot Robbie as Cathy and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, the two embarking on a doomed romance that only ever hurts themselves and those around them. I would further like to clarify that I also haven’t read the original novel written by Emily Brontë, nor have I seen any other adaptation, so I wasn’t aware of the story or what to expect when going into this film, but oh man, did it feel like a punch to the gut.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

I am a massive fan of Emerald Fennell and her unique way of storytelling as she falls into a type of weird girl cinema that I really resonate with. I love love love Saltburn her last film and I’m also a huge fan of Promising Young Woman. Immediately during the opening scene the audience is given a taste of what to expect as we watch a man be hung and a young Cathy scream in joy as she watches. It is an intense way to open a film however I was immediately hooked to Cathy as a character and the story that was soon to unfold. The chemistry between both Margot and Jacob was insane and I genuinely for a moment believed that these two were madly in love with each other (oh to be lifted up by my corset and almost passionately kissed). The deep desire and yearning expressed in the first half of the film had me clenching my seat and wanting more. I will say that the trailer led me to believe that this was going to be a lot more horny than it actually was, however I am still not disappointed. I am further aware of the fact that these characters are not good people. Fennell does an amazing job of creating an environment where the audience still wants what’s best for them even when they say and do horrible things. The ending had me bawling my eyes out and sobbing uncontrollably. So much wasted time that simply could’ve been solved if divorce was on the cards.

Fennell’s visual style is absolutely stunning to watch. She has definitely found her style with Saltburn and it was such a joy to watch it further evolve. The beautiful costumes and makeup that is further accentuated by the cinematography looked like art on the screen. I didn’t really care for the fact that the costuming wasn’t historically accurate as I believe that it made the film’s presence even more unique. Finally this is further conveyed through the soundtrack written and performed by Charli XCX. I am absolutely obsessed with it, my favourite song being ‘Always Everywhere’. With these elements combined, it makes for such an interesting viewing experience through visuals, dialogue and sound. 

Overall, I had so much fun watching this film and rated it 4 stars on Letterboxd. I will say I can understand the discourse surrounding this film, but still, I loved it and would definitely watch it again. I encourage you all to do so, but go into it with an open mind.

The Hermit xx