The film adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel earned $11 million on its first day in theaters and is projected to reach $80 million worldwide after the holiday period.

The romantic psychological drama Wuthering Heights officially claimed the No. 1 spot at the North American box office on its opening day. The film outperformed its competitors GOAT and Crime 101, securing the top position in daily grosses.

Strong opening performance
According to data from Variety, the Gothic novel adaptation directed by Emerald Fennell grossed $11 million from 3,682 theaters across North America on Friday (local time). Based on this momentum, the film’s domestic box office is expected to reach around $40 million over the holiday weekend.

If international markets deliver a similar $40 million, the film will mark a highly successful launch overall. The production budget is reported to be approximately $80 million.

Star power and a timeless story
Wuthering Heights revisits the tragic and turbulent love story between Cathy, an upper-class woman in 19th-century England portrayed by Margot Robbie, and Heathcliff, a charismatic yet socially ostracized man played by Jacob Elordi. After disappearing for years, Heathcliff returns determined to reclaim Cathy’s heart.

In addition to its two leads, the film features a strong supporting cast including Hong Chau, Alison Oliver, Shazad Latif, Martin Clunes, and Ewan Mitchell.

The combination of Fennell’s distinctive directorial style and Brontë’s enduring literary source has generated significant public interest, helping the film achieve an impressive box office debut.