Hollywood's casting choices for period dramas have been a lightning rod for controversy. The intersection of art and history, which comprises authenticity, representation, and cultural sensitivity, has long been a point of contention. While Victorian-era romances are back on the menu, casting seems to be a disaster. With the recent announcement of a revival of Emily Brontë's timeless classic, Wuthering Heights, it is to see how far the selected stars, Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie, embody the original characters and era. 

Especially, following Tom Hardy’s high standards set in 2009, here are three reasons why the duo is not perfect to play the iconic couple in the Moors. 

Wuthering Heights is a classic drenched in mature themes of passion to the point of ridicule, vengeful abuse, and gothic supernatural elements. The cycle of abuse that accompanies the brooding anti-hero that is Heathcliff throughout sparks fervent discussions, yet leaves a crucial aspect overlooked—his racial identity. As a foundling of darker complexion, his abuse stems largely from racial prejudice. Whitewashing his character by casting Jacob Elordi erases this pivotal context, thus undermining the narrative's exploration of class, power, and social hierarchy, reducing Heathcliff's struggles to mere melodrama.

Rather, stars like Oscar Isaac or Kedar Williams-Stirling, or be it Bridgerton’s Black horse, Regé-Jean Page, could have brought authenticity to Heathcliff, aligning with Emily Brontë's intentions. Their diverse backgrounds and proven acting chops would honor the complex, racially charged character, bringing overdue representation and fresh perspective to period dramas. Staying true to Brontë's vision while captivating modern audiences, these casting choices would revitalize Wuthering Heights.

“Possible adaptation…”- Sydney Sweeney Gives a Soft Agreement for a Possible Dystopian Book Adaptation

Nonetheless, Elordi alone is not the problem here. The age gap between the appointed protagonists is not sitting right, either. 

Margot Robbie's 39 years while Jack Elordi's 27 create an unsettling age gap, diverging from the novel's portrayal of Catherine and Heathcliff as childhood sweethearts of similar age. This disparity may distort the narrative's dynamics and authenticity. The significant age difference will require careful cinematic manipulation to maintain the illusion of a contemporary relationship. 

There is no doubt that creative camera angles, makeup, and wardrobe choices will be employed to help minimize the gap, but the disparity may still jar viewers' perceptions of the iconic couple. Moreover, Robbie herself is more problematic as a cast as compared to Jack Elordi in this scenario. 

Margot Robbie, fresh off the Barbie fame, is in her late 30s while the role she is about to play did not make it past 19. Catherine Earnshaw's youthful vitality requires a fresh face from a younger actress. Ema Mackey or Elle Fanning, both in their early 20s, would have brought authenticity to the role. Their age and range would have also allowed for a seamless transition to portray Cathy, Catherine's daughter, maintaining the narrative.'

Hence, if Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi's Wuthering Heights misses the mark, it will join the ranks of Hollywood's infamous literary flops. The latest example being Netflix's Persuasion, starring Dakota Johnson, which left fans traumatized. Nonetheless, it is to see how Saltburn's director, Emerald Fennell, channels his genius to make it a hit. The movie is currently in pre-production, slated for a 2025 shoot in the highlands of the UK.

‘The Witcher’ Famous Bathtub Scene: A Canon Event That Catered to the Book, Video Game and Henry Cavill’s Fans Altogether

What do you think of Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie as Emily Brontë's present-day complicated couple, Heathcliff and Catherine? Let us know in the comments below.