Wuthering Heights (1939)

US 103m, B&W
Director: William Wyler; Cast: Merle Oberon, Laurence Olivier, David Niven, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Donald Crisp, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Leo G. Carroll, Sarita Wooton, Rex Downing, Douglas Scott

Wuthering Heights is an abridged version of Emily Brontë’s 1847 multi-generational novel of the same name. Though lacking the emotional intensity and time depth of the now classic story, the film nevertheless distills the essence of Cathy and Heathcliff’s tragic relationship. Told as a long flashback, the film has numerous strengths, including its cinematography and fine acting, particularly Olivier’s performance as Heathcliff. Likewise, the three child actors: Wooton, Downing and Scott who are generally less credited in the film’s success, deliver fine performances, and help set the tone of the film and provide the foundation for the balance of the story (Klaus Ming April 2013).