In an inventive approach to production design, director Emerald Fennell revealed that the wallpaper in the film Wuthering Heights was inspired by images of Margot Robbie’s skin. The film, shot in Los Angeles, stars Robbie as Cathy alongside Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, bringing a fresh take to Emily Bronte’s timeless story. Fennell explained how visual elements tied to Robbie’s own physical characteristics influenced the atmosphere of the characters’ surroundings.
Wallpaper Created Using Images of Veins and Freckles
The wallpaper featured in the on-screen depiction of Cathy’s bedroom was designed from silk printed with detailed pictures of Robbie’s veins and freckles. This unique material was then stuffed and coated with latex to allow it to realistically sweat on camera, adding a tactile authenticity to the environment. During a screening event at London’s BFI Southbank, Fennell described the design as more than decorative.
At first glance, you don’t see any of it, it’s just a beautiful pink room. It’s like a visual example of what it feels like to be made a wife, to be made an object of beauty, to be a collector’s item.
Emerald Fennell, Director
Creative Methods to Help Actors Connect with Characters
To help actors immerse themselves in their roles, Fennell developed personalized shrines placed in each of the cast’s bedrooms. These shrines featured curated images of their fellow actors, crafted from the internet and including iconic photos that humanize the performers beyond their roles.
So when Jacob went into his room, he had an insane shrine to worship not just Cathy, but Margot Robbie and then she had the same thing. There’s nothing more humanising than somebody’s first press photo.
Emerald Fennell, Director
Margot Robbie’s Initiative to Join the Project
Fennell shared that Robbie proactively expressed interest in playing Cathy after the director sent the script to the actress’s production company. This gesture surprised Fennell, who admitted feeling uncertain about approaching Robbie herself because of their different relationship dynamics.
I sent it to them to produce, and Margot luckily asked if she might play Cathy. I was very nervous to ask her, because I think we have a different relationship, and I didn’t want to put her on the spot. I was like: ‘Do I go for it?’ No, I didn’t. Of course I didn’t, because she’s braver than me. She asked me.
Emerald Fennell, Director
Impact and Anticipation for the New Adaptation
This imaginative use of the lead actress’s own features to influence set design reflects a deeper connection between character and environment in this latest retelling of Wuthering Heights. By blending physicality with visual storytelling, the film aims to evoke the emotional complexity of Cathy’s experience. With the innovative shrines and immersive sets, the production fosters a more intimate atmosphere that could set new standards for character-driven cinematography. Audiences are now eager to see how these creative choices translate to the screen when the film receives wider release.
