Director Emerald Fennell’s take on the classic novel is a lackluster adaptation that omits key elements and fails to deliver on its promise of a transgressive reimagining. Despite Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi’s undeniable chemistry, the film’s sanitized approach to sex and violence leaves it feeling dull and unfulfilling.
The film follows the traditional narrative of Wuthering Heights, with some minor deviations that don’t add much to the story. The casting choice for Cathy and Heathcliff is particularly jarring, given their supposed ages and ethnicities in the original novel. The script omits crucial aspects of the book’s final act, focusing instead on the tumultuous relationship between Cathy and Heathcliff from a young age.
Fennell’s vision of Wuthering Heights feels more like a watered-down version of her previous work, Promising Young Woman. The film’s attempts at sensuality fall flat, with the graphic scenes that were reportedly cut from test screenings nowhere to be seen. Instead, the focus remains on the costumes and production design, which is where Fennell shines.
Overall, Wuthering Heights feels like a missed opportunity for Fennell to push boundaries and challenge her audience. The film’s failure to deliver on its promise of transgression leaves it feeling dull and unfulfilling.
Source: https://www.avclub.com/good-luck-have-fun-dont-die-review