When it comes to cinematic adaptations of classic literature, few films have left as indelible a mark as William Wyler’s 1939 adaptation of Emily Brontë’s "Wuthering Heights." This black-and-white epic, starring Laurence Olivier as the brooding Heathcliff and Merle Oberon as the conflicted Catherine, is the very definition of a sweeping romance. Its legacy is once again in the spotlight as a new adaptation, helmed by Emerald Fennell and starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, prepares to hit theaters on February 13, 2026. But before audiences flock to see this latest retelling, there’s good reason to revisit Wyler’s original vision—especially since it’s currently available for free on YouTube.
Wyler’s "Wuthering Heights" is more than just a film; it’s a touchstone for generations of moviegoers and filmmakers alike. According to SlashFilm, the movie chronicles the tormented romance between Heathcliff and Catherine, set against the wild, windswept moors that have become synonymous with Brontë’s tale. Olivier’s performance as Heathcliff is widely regarded as the gold standard, capturing the character’s intensity, longing, and, at times, raw anger. As SlashFilm notes, "One can really sense the romantic angst in the film as Heathcliff constantly tries to connect with his beloved Catherine and how angry he becomes when he is spurned."
The story itself is a study in heartbreak and social barriers. Heathcliff, an orphan raised alongside Cathy, is never truly accepted by her family—particularly her resentful brother Hindley, played in the 1939 film by Hugh Williams. Despite a passionate youthful romance that sees them running wild through the moors, Cathy ultimately chooses to marry Edgar Linton (David Niven), a wealthier suitor. Her reasoning is painfully pragmatic: she believes that marrying Heathcliff, a stableboy, would "degrade" her. In a bid to win her back, Heathcliff amasses his own fortune, but the wounds of rejection linger, and their love remains unfulfilled.
Interestingly, Wyler’s adaptation takes significant liberties with Brontë’s novel. As SlashFilm points out, "Many film adaptations of 'Wuthering Heights,' including Wyler's version, omit the second half of Brontë's novel, which involves Cathy's daughter and Heathcliff's son falling in love, intergenerationally patching up a romantic injustice." Instead, the film concludes with a haunting image: the ghosts of Heathcliff and Cathy wandering the moors, eternally bound by the love that eluded them in life. This choice, while a departure from the source material, lends the film a melodramatic power that has resonated with audiences for decades.
Wyler’s "Wuthering Heights" quickly became the benchmark by which all future adaptations would be measured. The film’s cinematic style—bolstered by Gregg Toland’s Oscar-winning black-and-white cinematography—captures the windswept drama and emotional tumult at the heart of Brontë’s story. According to SlashFilm, "It was such a good movie that it became the high-water mark for all future 'Wuthering Heights' adaptations." And there have been many.
Indeed, "Wuthering Heights" has been adapted for the screen more times than most classics. The BBC first tackled it for television in 1948, followed by a CBS version starring Charlton Heston in 1950. The BBC returned with a new adaptation in 1953, and CBS again in 1958 with Rosemary Harris and Richard Burton. The story has been reimagined in 1959, 1962, 1970, 1992, 1998, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, and as recently as 2022. Some versions, like MTV’s 2003 adaptation and the 2015 "Wuthering High School," have even reinterpreted the tale for teenage audiences. And that’s not counting international renditions, radio plays, or even the tongue-in-cheek semaphore version featured on "Monty Python’s Flying Circus."
Yet, through all these retellings, Wyler’s film remains one of the most famous and beloved. As SlashFilm observes, "Wyler's version remains one of the most famous and well-regarded, and the fact that it's available for free on YouTube makes it easily accessible for newcomers." The accessibility of this classic, especially in the digital age, has introduced new generations to its timeless themes of love, loss, and longing.
Despite its enduring reputation, "Wuthering Heights" faced stiff competition during its original release. The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture (then called Outstanding Production), Best Director, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Screenplay. However, the only Oscar it took home was for Best Black and White Cinematography, thanks to Gregg Toland’s iconic work. The 1939 Oscars were fiercely competitive, with "Wuthering Heights" going up against cinematic heavyweights like "The Wizard of Oz," "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington," "Stagecoach," "Of Mice and Men," and "Goodbye, Mr. Chips." Ultimately, "Gone with the Wind" swept the ceremony, claiming eight awards and cementing its status as the highest-grossing film of all time when adjusted for inflation. As SlashFilm puts it, "Really, a mere sweeping romance like 'Wuthering Heights' didn't stand a chance in such an environment."
Still, the fact that "Wuthering Heights" is often listed lower in rankings of 1939’s greatest films says more about the remarkable competition than any shortcomings of the film itself. "The Wizard of Oz" remains a cultural touchstone, and "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" is hailed as a quintessential American story. But for those seeking the first feature film adaptation of Cathy and Heathcliff’s tragic romance, Wyler’s film is just a click away. And, as SlashFilm cheekily remarks, "You can swoon looking at the young Laurence Olivier's handsome face. Good God, is he ever hot in that movie."
With Emerald Fennell’s new adaptation on the horizon—featuring the star power of Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi—there’s a sense of anticipation and curiosity. Will this latest version capture the same magic as Wyler’s classic? Only time will tell. For now, viewers have the rare opportunity to revisit a foundational work of cinematic romance, free of charge, and experience firsthand why this story of doomed love continues to captivate audiences nearly a century after its original release.
Sometimes, the most enduring love stories are those that leave us with more questions than answers, haunting us like the ghosts on the moors—forever yearning, forever unforgettable.