The opening moments of Emerald Fennell’s adaptation of “Wuthering Heights” feature a jarring juxtaposition: Charli XCX and John Cale’s track “House” plays over a scene of both frenzied violence and expansive freedom. The song, the lead single from Charli XCX’s 2023 album Wuthering Heights, accompanies a depiction of a public hanging followed by Cathy and Nelly’s desperate flight across the Yorkshire moors. While the song itself has found a life online, particularly on TikTok, its use in the film has drawn criticism for its disconnect from the visuals.
“House” builds from sparse, unsettling instrumentation to a powerful, almost overwhelming sonic climax. Critics have noted the song’s ability to evoke the claustrophobia and psychological turmoil central to Emily Brontë’s novel. Yet, its placement during a scene emphasizing open space feels counterintuitive. The song’s refrain, “I think I’m gonna die in this house,” loses some of its impact when paired with images of characters running freely.
The song’s potential within the film wasn’t fully realized, according to some observers. Opportunities existed to connect the song’s themes more directly to the narrative. For example, Cathy’s anxieties about her future at Wuthering Heights with her ailing father, or her later feelings of entrapment at Thrushcross Grange, could have provided a more fitting backdrop for the track. As one commentator noted, the song’s title itself suggests a thematic link to the film’s central locations.
Despite the film’s arguably misaligned use of the song, “House” has gained traction online. TikTok users have embraced the track, utilizing it to soundtrack videos depicting moments of despair or unsettling imagery. This trend, while often humorous, taps into the song’s inherent sense of unease and dread. The song’s success on the platform demonstrates its ability to resonate with audiences, even if that resonance isn’t fully captured within the context of Fennell’s film.
Charli XCX’s Wuthering Heights album, released in 2023, received mixed reviews. Beats Per Minute published a review of the album, while Mashable noted the song’s impact and its use in the film. The album features a collaboration with John Cale, adding to its artistic weight. “House” stands out as a particularly potent track, and its continued presence in the cultural conversation, fueled by TikTok, suggests a lasting impact beyond its initial release and the film adaptation.
