"Wuthering Heights" Movie Backlash
ESL Lesson Plans"Wuthering Heights" Movie Backlash

"Wuthering Heights" Movie Backlash

Why has the new adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic sparked so much controversy? In this C1 ESL lesson for adults, students analyze a BBC Culture article about the backlash to Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights. Through reading, discussion, and video analysis, learners explore themes such as film adaptations, audience expectations, and artistic interpretation. The lesson also develops critical reading, nuanced opinion language, and advanced speaking skills while debating the pros and cons of adapting classic literature for modern audiences.

Skills

  • Can argue a case on a complex issue, formulating points precisely and employing emphasis effectively.
Online Interactive
Based on CEFR
Fully Customizable
1

Before the lesson: Read the article and answer the questions.

1
What reasons does the author give for the backlash beyond film quality?
2
How does the 1939 vs 2024 comparison show changing audience expectations?
3
Why does the author include specific trailer criticisms?
4
What does the casting director’s quote reveal about adaptation vs accuracy?
5
How is Fennell’s style described, and why do critics question it here?
6
Why is Heathcliff’s racial identity important to the criticism?
7
How do trailer examples show differences from the original novel?
8
How do the director’s past films shape audience expectations?
9
Why do devoted fans see changes as a “personal attack”?
10
What does the author’s tone suggest about the criticism?
2

Answer the questions.

3

Read the opinions on the "Wuthering Heights" below and note down phrases used to express nuanced opinions.

4

Watch the teaser. What is your initial impression? Would you watch the film?

5

Add more pros and cons of screen adaptations. Where do you personally stand in this debate? Use the language for nuanced opinions to share your thoughts.