The global box office saw a dynamic weekend with several new releases, led by Emerald Fennell's audacious remake of Emily Brontë's classic novel, “Wuthering Heights.” The R-rated period romance claimed the No. 1 spot worldwide with an $82 million debut, making it the top global debut of the year.

This impressive haul included a better-than-expected $42 million from 76 international territories and $40 million over its four-day domestic opening, though rival studios estimate the North American tally closer to $35 million to $40 million through the President's Day holiday.

Produced on an $80 million budget by Warner Bros., the film, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, delves into the toxic relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff in 18th century England.

Despite its box office success in recouping its budget in four days, the film’s reception has been sharply divided. Critics have praised Emerald Fennell for her bold, stylistic choices and willingness to reinterpret Wuthering Heights through a darker, more sensual lens.

However, some audiences have pushed back against what they describe as an overly modernised take on a literary classic, with debates erupting online over its pacing, tone, and explicit content.

Lead performances from Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi have remained a consistent highlight, with many reviewers noting their intense on-screen chemistry as a driving force behind the film’s appeal. Their portrayals have also resonated strongly with younger audiences, contributing to the film’s strong turnout across key international markets.

Elsewhere at the box office, holdover titles continued to perform steadily. Family-oriented animations and action franchises maintained their positions in the top five, benefiting from the extended holiday weekend in the United States.

Industry analysts note that the success of “Wuthering Heights” signals a renewed appetite for unconventional, director-driven projects, even within traditionally niche genres like period romance.

Looking ahead, the film’s sustainability will depend on word-of-mouth and its ability to maintain momentum beyond its opening weekend. While its provocative approach may limit its appeal among more traditional audiences, its strong debut suggests that bold reinterpretations of classic literature can still command significant global attention when paired with star power and strategic release timing.

As the box office landscape continues to evolve, “Wuthering Heights” stands as a reminder that risk—when executed with confidence—can still translate into commercial reward.