Renowned costume designer Jacqueline Durran has come to her own defense amidst backlash over the unconventional costume choices in the upcoming adaptation featuring Margot Robbie as Cathy in Wuthering Heights.
Scheduled for release on February 13, the movie is pushing boundaries, prompting mixed reactions among fans of the genre. Critics have expressed varying opinions on Emerald Fennell’s reinterpretation, particularly noting the parallels to Fennel’s Saltburn and its provocative narrative.
The costume selections, including a striking red latex dress, have sparked criticism from devotees of Emily Brontë’s classic narrative. Social media has been abuzz with commentary on the movie, complemented by the sounds of Charli XCX, dubbed as the Queen of BRAT.
Critics have not held back in their disdain for the costumes, with one fan describing them as “hideous” and lacking coherence in historical accuracy. Another observer questioned the relevance of the costume choices, comparing them unfavorably to those in typical period films.
In response to the backlash, Durran, a two-time Oscar winner, clarified the rationale behind the costume decisions. Contrary to assumptions, she explained that the material used was not latex but rather a contemporary, shiny synthetic fabric. The vibrant red color symbolizes Cathy’s character evolution throughout the film, with a deliberate emphasis on high-shine pieces for thematic effect.
Furthermore, Durran acknowledged that historical accuracy was not the primary focus, emphasizing the team’s preference for selecting outfits that resonated with each character’s essence.
Although the costumes have been a focal point of contention, the film itself has also stirred controversy. Reports of an explicit opening scene diverging from the original literary work have garnered skepticism from fans and critics alike, with some expressing concerns about the movie straying too far from its gothic romantic roots.
Earlier screenings have evoked mixed reactions, with some viewers labeling certain scenes as gratuitous and out of place within the context of the story. The overall sentiment suggests a disconnect between the film’s artistic direction and the expectations of audiences familiar with the source material.