Charli XCX responds to criticism of Wuthering Heights trailer after confirming new original song for film

Charli XCX reacts to backlash over Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights trailer while announcing new original music.

The first trailer for Emerald Fennell’s upcoming adaptation of Wuthering Heights has stirred debate since its release on September 3. Starring Margot Robbie as Catherine and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, the film is set to premiere on February 14, 2026.

Charli xcx responds to her work on the upcoming ‘Wuthering Heights’ soundtrack being labelled as “the matcha dubai chocolate labubu of film”:

“hope you enjoy! xx” pic.twitter.com/KC73n1iY7r

— Pop Base (@PopBase) September 6, 2025

As reported by NME, social media users mocked the trailer’s stylized approach, calling it the “matcha dubai chocolate labubu of film.” The preview features a reworked version of Charli XCX’s track Everything Is Romantic, and the singer revealed she also contributed original songs for the soundtrack. In response to the criticism, Charli shared a screenshot of one viral tweet and replied tersely: “hope you like it!” alongside a Kate Bush track.

Audience reactions have been divided. Reports from a recent test screening noted discomfort with explicit material, with some online commentators comparing the adaptation to “soft porn.” Others expressed disappointment at what they saw as a sharp departure from Emily Brontë’s novel. Similar critiques followed Fennell’s 2023 film Saltburn, which became known for its provocative imagery.

Casting choices have also generated discussion. Elordi’s portrayal of Heathcliff has been questioned, as the character is described in the original text as “dark-skinned.” The decision has renewed conversations about authenticity and representation in literary adaptations.

Despite the controversy, the film remains a major release on next year’s calendar. Elordi has said he was considering a break from acting until Fennell approached him with the project. Meanwhile, Robbie is reportedly in negotiations to produce and star in another high-profile venture: a Tim Burton–directed remake of Attack of the Fifty Foot Woman.