Is the Wuthering Heights Soundtrack the Ultimate Game-Changer for Charli XCX?

Finn Keane, a collaborator with Charli XCX, has described the process of creating the soundtrack for the upcoming film adaptation of Wuthering Heights as a refreshing pivot from their previous work on the Brat album. This new direction showcases a deeper, more gothic theme that contrasts sharply with the upbeat, dance-inspired tracks they previously produced together.

Last updated: 13 February 2024 (BST)

What’s happening now

The film adaptation of Emily Brontë's classic novel Wuthering Heights, featuring a soundtrack by Charli XCX and produced by Finn Keane, is set to open in UK cinemas on 13 February 2024. This soundtrack marks a significant artistic shift for Charli, moving away from the vibrant energy of her Brat album to explore darker themes. The anticipation surrounding the film and its music has generated considerable buzz, with fans eager to see how Charli's artistry evolves in this new context.

Key takeaways

Charli XCX's soundtrack for Wuthering Heights reflects a darker, more emotional tone compared to her previous work.
The collaboration with Finn Keane includes 12 tracks, featuring influences from artists like The Cure and Kate Bush.
The film opens in UK cinemas on 13 February 2024, coinciding with the soundtrack release.

Timeline: how we got here

The collaboration between Finn Keane and Charli XCX has evolved significantly over time. Here’s a brief timeline of key events leading to the Wuthering Heights soundtrack:

September 2023: Charli XCX declares the end of "Brat summer," indicating a shift in her artistic direction.
Late 2023: Keane and Charli become inspired by the script for the Wuthering Heights film, leading to discussions about creating a soundtrack.
January 2024: Charli teases a setlist for the soundtrack on social media.
February 2024: The film and its soundtrack are both set to be released on 13 February.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The most recent updates reveal that the Wuthering Heights soundtrack will feature a collaboration with Sky Ferreira and will explore orchestral elements recorded at Abbey Road Studios. This marks a new artistic direction for Charli, showcasing her versatility beyond the dance-pop genre.

What was already established

It was already known that Charli XCX had worked with Finn Keane on her Brat album, which included the Grammy-winning track "Von Dutch." Their chemistry and collaborative spirit have been well-documented, and they have previously explored a vibrant, upbeat sound, making this pivot to a darker theme particularly notable.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The release of Wuthering Heights is expected to attract a diverse audience, particularly fans of Charli XCX and classic literature. The film’s gothic themes may resonate with viewers seeking deeper narratives, while the accompanying soundtrack aims to enhance the cinematic experience.

Businesses and jobs

With the film's release, there is potential for increased business for cinemas, especially for those that offer unique viewing experiences. Additionally, as Charli XCX continues to expand her artistry, it may open new markets and opportunities for collaborative projects within the music industry.

Policy and regulation

No significant policy changes are anticipated in relation to the film or soundtrack releases. However, the cultural impact of such projects may lead to discussions about funding and support for arts and music in the UK.

Numbers that matter

12 tracks in the Wuthering Heights soundtrack, showcasing a blend of gothic and emotional themes.
The film is set to release on 13 February 2024, coinciding with the soundtrack launch.
Influences include iconic artists like The Cure and Kate Bush, highlighting a rich musical heritage.

Definitions and jargon buster

Brat summer: A cultural phenomenon associated with Charli XCX's upbeat album and its themes of youth and rebellion.
Gothic: A style characterised by dark and mysterious themes, often associated with literature and art involving the supernatural.
Soundtrack: A collection of music specifically written or selected to accompany a film.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the film and soundtrack launch approaches, fans can expect promotional events and potential live performances that showcase the new music. Keeping an eye on box office performance will also provide insight into audience reception.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-release, it will be interesting to see how the soundtrack performs on music charts and whether it influences Charli's future projects. Additionally, the reception of the film may lead to discussions about further adaptations of classic literature in contemporary music.

Signals to watch

Box office performance of Wuthering Heights in UK cinemas.
Streaming numbers and chart placements for the soundtrack.
Critical reviews and audience feedback on both the film and music.

Practical guidance

Do

Attend the film in cinemas to experience the music and visuals together.
Engage with the soundtrack on streaming platforms to support Charli XCX's new artistic direction.
Explore the influences mentioned by Charli, such as The Cure and Kate Bush, to appreciate the musical context.

Don’t

Don’t assume the film will be similar to past works of Charli XCX; expect a different tone and style.
Don’t miss out on the experience by watching it at home instead of in cinemas.
Don’t overlook the emotional depth intended in the soundtrack's composition.

Checklist

Check local cinema listings for showtimes.
Listen to the soundtrack prior to the film to familiarise yourself with the music.
Prepare for a darker, more emotional storytelling experience compared to Charli's previous works.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the excitement surrounding Wuthering Heights and its soundtrack is palpable, there remains uncertainty regarding audience reception. The shift to a more gothic theme may not resonate with all fans of Charli XCX. Additionally, the film's adaptation of a classic novel carries inherent risks of alienating purists who may have specific expectations of the story. It will be crucial to monitor how these factors influence both critical and commercial success.

Bottom line

Finn Keane's collaboration with Charli XCX on the Wuthering Heights soundtrack marks a significant departure from their previous work on the Brat album, embracing darker themes and emotional depth. With both the film and soundtrack releasing on 13 February 2024, audiences can look forward to a unique artistic experience that showcases Charli's versatility. This project not only highlights a new direction for her music but also invites viewers to engage with classic literature in a contemporary context.

FAQs

What is the release date for the Wuthering Heights soundtrack?

The Wuthering Heights soundtrack will be released on 13 February 2024, coinciding with the film's release in UK cinemas.

How many tracks are on the soundtrack?

The soundtrack features 12 tracks, blending gothic themes with Charli XCX's distinct musical style.

Who are some of the artists that influenced the soundtrack?

Charli XCX has cited influences like The Cure and Kate Bush, as well as collaboration with John Cale, a veteran musician known for his artistic contributions.