Jacob Elordi & Margot Robbie: A Rare Gentlemanly Romance
- The press tour for Emerald Fennell’s upcoming adaptation of Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel, “Wuthering Heights,” is revealing a fascinating dynamic between its stars, Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi.
- Robbie and Elordi portray the ill-fated lovers, Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, in a story renowned for its passionate and destructive romance.
- According to Robbie, Fennell took the unusual step of creating “shrines” dedicated to each actor within their respective dressing rooms at the studio.
The press tour for Emerald Fennell’s upcoming adaptation of Emily Brontë’s novel, “Wuthering Heights,” is revealing a fascinating dynamic between its stars, Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. Beyond the anticipation surrounding the film itself, set to release on , the actors’ off-screen connection is becoming a central narrative, fueled by deliberate creative choices from director Fennell.
Robbie and Elordi portray the ill-fated lovers, Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, in a story renowned for its passionate and destructive romance. Fennell, however, didn’t rely solely on their acting abilities to cultivate the necessary intensity. She actively fostered a sense of obsession between the two, a method Robbie described as “unhinged and so hilarious.”
According to Robbie, Fennell took the unusual step of creating “shrines” dedicated to each actor within their respective dressing rooms at the studio. These weren’t simple displays of admiration; they included “locks of hair and pictures of us, candles” – a full-blown attempt to replicate the consuming nature of the characters’ relationship. Elordi called the gesture “funny” and “fantastic,” acknowledging the effectiveness of the unconventional approach.
“I felt the obsession between Cathy and Heathcliff and I was obsessed with it,” Robbie told TODAY correspondent Kaylee Hartung. The intention, she explained, was to raise the bar for the emotional depth required of their performances. “She set the bar for how intense we should take their character’s romance,” Robbie said, adding that she and Elordi then “just kept trying to meet the bar.”
This immersive method speaks to Fennell’s directorial style and her commitment to exploring the darker, more unsettling aspects of Brontë’s classic. While the novel has seen numerous adaptations, Fennell’s approach, as evidenced by this behind-the-scenes detail, suggests a willingness to push boundaries and delve into the psychological complexities of the characters.
The connection between Robbie and Elordi extends beyond Fennell’s directorial interventions. Both actors share Australian roots, a commonality they bonded over early in the production. This shared background, as noted in reports, contributed to a natural rapport that likely informed their on-screen chemistry.
The press tour has been marked by mutual praise between the two stars. Robbie has described becoming “codependent” on Elordi during filming, expressing a typical reluctance to see a project end when a strong working relationship has developed. Elordi reciprocated, describing a “mutual obsession” with Robbie during the production. This level of openness about their connection has naturally drawn attention, adding another layer of intrigue to the film’s release.
Beyond the on-set dynamics, subtle details surrounding the film’s promotion are reinforcing the themes of the story. Custom signet rings, designed by London-based fine-jeweller Cece Jewellery in collaboration with Robbie’s stylist Andrew Mukamal, have been spotted on both actors during promotional appearances. These rings feature intertwined skeletons, roses, and thorns – all symbolic elements representing the destructive bond between Catherine and Heathcliff.
Engraved on each ring is a line from the novel: “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same,” alongside the initials C & H and the dates and , linking the original publication of the book to the film’s release. The craftsmanship itself is noteworthy, utilizing a rare technique called champlevé enamel, a historically British method of visual storytelling.
Early reviews of “Wuthering Heights” suggest Fennell’s adaptation is a “torrid” and “haughty” take on the classic, prioritizing a darkly humorous and emotionally intense portrayal of the central romance. While the film reportedly takes liberties with the source material, critics acknowledge the compelling performances of Robbie and Elordi as key strengths.
The film’s release comes at a time when both actors are at the peak of their careers. Robbie, fresh off her Oscar nomination for “Barbie,” continues to demonstrate her range and willingness to tackle challenging roles. Elordi, having gained prominence through “Euphoria” and “Saltburn,” is solidifying his position as a leading man. “Wuthering Heights” represents a significant opportunity for both to further showcase their talent and expand their creative horizons.
The buzz surrounding the film isn’t solely about the adaptation itself, but also about the palpable connection between its stars. Fennell’s unconventional methods, coupled with the actors’ willingness to embrace the intensity of the story, have created a narrative that extends beyond the screen, captivating audiences even before the film’s official release. Whether this translates into critical and commercial success remains to be seen, but the current level of attention suggests “Wuthering Heights” is poised to be a significant cultural moment.