Costume designer Jacqueline Durran has come to the defense of her design choices for Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Cathy in the upcoming adaptation of Wuthering Heights after facing criticism from fans.
The highly anticipated movie, set to be released on February 13, is pushing the boundaries of traditional expectations in the genre, prompting a mix of reactions from fans and critics alike.
Critics have particularly taken issue with the costume selection, drawing comparisons to Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn and its perceived “hypersexualized” narrative. The introduction of a red latex dress, in particular, has sparked controversy among devotees of Emily Brontë’s classic narrative.
Social media has been abuzz with opinions on the forthcoming release, with one fan expressing disappointment in the choice of attire, describing it as “fugly plastic arts and crafts looking” with a bow. Another critic pointed out the lack of historical accuracy in the costumes, labeling them as random and unsuitable for the period setting.
Despite the backlash, Durran, a two-time Oscar winner, has stood by her creative decisions, clarifying that the controversial material is not latex but a contemporary, high-shine synthetic fabric. She explained that the red color scheme plays a significant role in Cathy’s character development throughout the film, with the shiny surfaces reflecting the character’s persona.
The costume designer acknowledged that historical accuracy was not the primary focus, admitting that the team prioritized selecting outfits that fit each character’s personality rather than adhering strictly to period norms.
In addition to the sartorial choices, the film’s content has also stirred controversy, with reports of a provocative opening scene diverging from the original literary work. Fans and critics have expressed concerns about the adaptation’s departure from the source material, with some suggesting that it strays too far from the essence of gothic romance.
Earlier screenings in Dallas, Texas, received a mixed reception, with audience members expressing varying degrees of discomfort and dissatisfaction with certain scenes they perceived as sensationalized for shock value.
As the film continues to generate buzz, it remains to be seen how audiences will react to this modern interpretation of a beloved literary classic.