The Wuthering Heights box office debut delivered one of the year’s strongest openings, earning US$76.8 million globally in its first weekend. Emerald Fennell’s reimagining of Emily Brontë’s classic novel quickly topped charts despite mixed critical reactions.
Starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi as Catherine and Heathcliff, the Warner Bros. romantic drama collected US$34.8 million in North America across 3,682 locations. Studio projections indicate the domestic total could reach US$40 million by the end of the President’s Day long weekend.
Internationally, the film exceeded expectations. It brought in US$42 million across 76 territories, pushing its worldwide total higher once holiday earnings are included.
Wuthering Heights Box Office Debut Surpasses Expectations
With a reported production budget of US$80 million, the film has already recouped its core costs, excluding marketing expenses. Strong turnout in Australia contributed to the performance, where it earned A$6.07 million. Industry observers noted that Robbie and Elordi’s popularity in their home market likely boosted attendance.
Additional releases in Japan, Vietnam, and China are expected to further strengthen its global run.
Despite the commercial success, the critical response has been divided. The film currently holds a 63% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Audience reactions were also mixed, earning a B CinemaScore, with just over half of viewers saying they would “definitely recommend” it.
PostTrak data revealed that women accounted for 76% of ticket buyers in North America, while international audiences were more male-skewed.
The strong launch marks Warner Bros.’ ninth consecutive No. 1 opening. The studio previously topped the box office with titles including A Minecraft Movie, Final Destination Bloodlines, and Weapons.
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The success arrives at a significant moment for the studio, which is reportedly facing a potential takeover bid from Paramount. Nevertheless, Wuthering Heights has provided a major commercial boost.
While debate continues over Fennell’s creative direction, the film’s early financial performance suggests audiences remain curious about bold reinterpretations of literary classics.
