We eagerly awaited to see how the dramatic story of Catherine and Heathcliff would be brought to life and how the key themes would be portrayed. The director, Emerald Fennell, had evidently chosen to focus on the ‘love story’ aspect of the book and the intensity and passion of the protagonists’ relationship. In particular, her decision to portray Heathcliff as more of a “hopeless romantic” rather than the vengeful demon that we know him as, sparked some lively debate. The cinematography of the film was an experience in itself, with the music, extravagant costumes and sets creating a spectacular visual.
If this film is viewed as a reinvention rather than an adaptation, it is certainly a thrilling piece of cinema. On behalf of all the English students, I would like to thank the English department for giving us this opportunity, it was a really fun and thought-provoking evening.