When “Wuthering Heights” first arrived in Luxembourgish cinemas at the beginning of February, it carried a 12 certificate. Now, the Luxembourg Independent Media Authority (ALIA) has moved to reclassify the film, raising the minimum age to 16.
ALIA, which works closely with Luxembourg’s cinema operators, made the announcement on its online platforms last Friday. The decision was made on the grounds of “potentially disturbing scenes” and forms part of ALIA’s broader remit to protect younger audiences. The stricter rating brings Luxembourg into line with several neighbouring countries and the United States, where the film is similarly restricted to those aged 16 and over.
The film contains a number of erotic and violent scenes, including depictions of sexual practices such as S&M and bondage, presented without critical commentary included in the film.
Since its release, the production has attracted criticism from various groups and on various grounds, with one recurring complaint being that the beloved literary classic has been heavily oversexualised.
