As film studios continue adapting classic literature for modern audiences, the value of literary adaptations has been called into question. The conversation resurfaced online after the release of Emerald Fennell’s new film, “Wuthering Heights,” adapted from Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel.
Having read “Wuthering Heights,” librarian Marisa Hegeman said she was excited to hear the novel was being adapted, but entered the theater with low expectations after reading lukewarm reviews. Comparing the film to the novel, Hegeman said she had concerns with altering key themes, such as casting white actor Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, the protagonist often inferred to be a person of color, which lessens the emphasis of Heathcliff being an outsider. Hegeman said the film ultimately won her over with its soundtrack and bold visual style and does not believe Fennell set out for historical accuracy.
”There were weird aesthetic choices, like the estate at Wuthering Heights looked so weird with its sleek black. It felt kind of fever dreamy, but I was here for it, ” Hegeman said. “Somehow, Charli XCX and the weird aesthetic choices mixed with the story, although I’m not recommending it to people because I don’t think it will be universally liked.”
English teacher Sophia Coen said that adaptations can bring classic texts back into cultural conversation, but hopes they aren’t necessary for the stories to stay relevant. In the classroom, Coen said she shows adaptations of assigned texts that provoke thoughtful class discussions.
English teacher Brittany Brintnall said that film adaptations can serve as a useful tool in an increasingly media-driven environment. In her classes, Brintnall has shown adaptations of “Romeo and Juliet” and “The Hate U Give” to help students visualize characters and reinforce core themes.
“Visual literacy is so important with students. [They] are inundated with more information than anyone has ever been before…I usually try to be really intentional about using films to help bring a story to life,” Brintnall said.
Hegeman said that a film can’t communicate all that is encapsulated in the original novel.
She said that while adaptations can oversimplify the message, they can also aid in introducing complex concepts to students.
“I do think a lot of kids will go search out the original source material if they connect enough. I don’t think [adapting a novel is] a bad thing, but I love stories in all forms, and whatever gets kids interested in the stories, whether it’s the movie or the actual book, I’m here for it.”
