Emerald Fennell’s highly anticipated adaptation of Wuthering Heights is just over two weeks away from its premiere, and the film’s stars, Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, are already generating excitement with a uniquely styled press tour. Following her vibrant, Barbie-themed promotions for Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster, Robbie has embraced a darker wardrobe, showcasing gothic fashion elements like sheer lace and chokers as they promote their roles as the passionate and tumultuous characters Cathy and Heathcliff.
In an intriguing promotional strategy akin to the buzz surrounding Wicked, Robbie and Elordi are skillfully intertwining elements of their fictional romance with real-life dynamics. Robbie recently shared a personal and intense gift she presented to Elordi: custom signet rings adorned with skeletons in a loving embrace, echoing the film’s promotional imagery. The rings even feature a quote from Emily Brontë, “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same,” further amplifying their on-screen connection.
The chemistry between the two stars has been a focal point of interviews, with Robbie recounting a touching Valentine’s Day surprise from Elordi—her dressing room adorned with red roses, crafted to reflect Heathcliff’s character. Elordi, speaking candidly about his admiration for Robbie, described his fascination with her, likening it to a constant watchfulness to see how her persona might reveal itself off-screen.
While the fervent promotion carries elements that blur the lines between reality and their roles, reminiscent of marketing strategies used by other films like Wicked and those surrounding Timothée Chalamet’s Marty Supreme, it has raised eyebrows. The playful interplay of their public personas hints at a calculated move to enhance intrigue, potentially drawing audiences to theaters.
As the countdown to the release of Wuthering Heights continues, the marketing tactics employed may captivate fans, but the film’s ultimate success will depend on the storytelling and performances that unfold on screen. This rollercoaster of promotion reflects a broader trend in the film industry, where unconventional methods are gaining traction and can effectively draw attention. With both excitement and skepticism, audiences eagerly await to see if this novel approach will translate into box office success for Fennell’s adaptation.