Wuthering Heights is already proving to be a box office success, delivering a strong opening performance despite receiving mixed reactions from critics and fans.
The much-anticipated film debuted at number one at the box office, earning an impressive $11 million on its opening day, signaling strong audience interest. The solid start reflects significant curiosity and enthusiasm among moviegoers, even as online opinions remain divided.
The latest adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel stars Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi in the lead roles, drawing major attention from fans worldwide. Their on-screen pairing has been one of the film’s biggest attractions, helping drive early ticket sales.
Produced on a reported budget of $80 million, early industry estimates suggest that Wuthering Heights could generate around $40 million in the United States alone during its opening weekend. A similar figure is expected from international markets, which could allow the film to recover its production costs swiftly and move into profitability within days of release.
Directed by Emerald Fennell, the period drama has sparked intense debate among viewers and critics alike. While some audiences praised the film’s emotional intensity, visual style, and bold storytelling, others expressed reservations about its modern interpretation of the literary classic.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film currently holds a 63 percent critics’ score, with several reviewers commending its ambition, scale, and dramatic flair. However, viewer reactions appear far more positive, as the film boasts a strong 85 percent audience score, suggesting powerful word of mouth and growing momentum at the box office.
Industry analysts believe that the combination of star power, strong opening numbers, and positive audience reception positions Wuthering Heights for sustained box office success in the coming weeks. If current trends continue, the film could easily exceed expectations and become one of the standout theatrical releases of early 2026.
With global audiences showing strong interest, Wuthering Heights appears set to transform early controversy into commercial triumph, reaffirming the enduring appeal of Emily Brontë’s timeless story.