Love is a force of nature|Sep. 09, 2011|United Kingdom|124 Min.|Not Rated
Genre: Drama;Romance
Description: “Wuthering Heights” is a 2011 British Gothic romantic drama directed by Andrea Arnold, featuring Kaya Scodelario as Catherine Earnshaw and James Howson as Heathcliff. The screenplay, adapted by Arnold and Olivia Hetreed from Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel, brings the classic story to life. Originally, Natalie Portman was set to play Cathy, but she withdrew, leading to shifts in casting and direction. Michael Fassbender and Abbie Cornish were initially considered for Heathcliff and Cathy, but the project saw changes, with Peter Webber briefly attached as director. Eventually, Andrea Arnold took the helm, casting Kaya Scodelario as Catherine, a decision praised for its age-appropriateness.
Arnold sought authenticity in casting Heathcliff, staying true to Brontë’s description of him as a “dark-skinned gypsy” and “a little Lascar.” The search initially focused on Romani actors but expanded to include mixed-race, Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Middle Eastern actors from Yorkshire. James Howson ultimately made history as the first Black actor to portray Heathcliff. Lucy Pardee handled the casting of child actors, selecting non-professionals from private schools.
Principal photography wrapped in November 2010, with locations in North Yorkshire, including Thwaite, Cotescue Park, and Moor Close Farm, serving as Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights, respectively. The production office was based in Hawes during filming. The film captures the raw emotion and timeless themes of Brontë’s novel, offering a fresh perspective on the enduring tale of love, revenge, and passion.
Cast director: Andrea Arnold
Cast actor: Kaya Scodelario, James Howson, Solomon Glave, Shannon Beer, Steve Evets, Oliver Milburn, Paul Hilton, Simone Jackson, Lee Shaw, James Northcote
Original name: Wuthering Heights