Roses Have Thoughts

Plot – A puritan Police Sergeant arrives in a Scottish island village in search of a missing girl whom the locals claim never existed – The Wicker Man

Director: Robin Hardy

Starring: Edward Woodward, Christopher Lee, Diane Cilento

Genre: Horror/Mystery/Thriller

Released: 1973

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: 6 out of 6.

If you liked: The Thing, The Witch, The Shining.

IMDB

The Wicker Man, directed by Robin Hardy and released in 1973, stands as a timeless cinematic gem that has rightfully earned its status as a cult classic. This atmospheric horror film, set against the haunting backdrop of a remote Scottish island, weaves a narrative that is as chilling as it is thought-provoking. From its eerie cinematography to its enigmatic characters, The Wicker Man captivates audiences with a narrative that defies genre conventions.

One of the film’s most outstanding features is its atmospheric brilliance. From the opening scenes, the audience is enveloped in an unsettling ambience that sets the tone for the entire film following a small plane flying over the desolate landscapes and foreboding architecture of the Outer Hebrides, making the location a character in itself, casting an otherworldly shadow over the unfolding events. The Wicker Man lets the audience know that this isn’t your normal horror film, it’s not the boogeyman you should be scared of, it’s the isolation.

The Wicker Man has always been a film that was hard to classify, with its strong gothic overtones and almost magical feel, it has always straddled the line between horror, thriller and mystery, while the plot forces you into the uncomfortable position between the repressed Christian sexual frustration and the sexual liberation of Paganism, it really is unique.

The screenplay, penned by Anthony Shaffer, showcases a rare intelligence in its storytelling. The dialogue is rich with symbolism and nuance, demanding the audience’s attention to fully appreciate the layers of the narrative. The Wicker Man invites viewers to question the nature of belief, morality, and the clash between modernity and ancient traditions. The script masterfully balances moments of unsettling horror with moments of dark humour, creating a tapestry that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant.

The film’s protagonist, Sergeant Neil Howie, portrayed by Edward Woodward, finds himself drawn into a web of pagan rituals and ancient traditions as he investigates the disappearance of a young girl. Christopher Lee, in a memorable performance as Lord Summerisle, leads the island’s inhabitants in a mesmerizing dance between folklore and fanaticism. The tension builds steadily as Howie delves deeper into the island’s secrets, and the film’s climax is nothing short of a cinematic revelation.

Edward Woodward’s portrayal of Sergeant Howie is nothing short of exceptional. His performance is marked by a nuanced blend of stoicism and vulnerability, making Howie a relatable and empathetic character. Woodward’s ability to convey a sense of moral righteousness, coupled with the gradual unravelling of his convictions, adds depth to the film and elevates it beyond mere genre constraints

In conclusion, The Wicker Man deserves its status as a cinematic masterpiece. From its haunting visuals and atmospheric score to its intellectually engaging narrative and stellar performances, the film remains a benchmark in the horror genre. Robin Hardy’s direction, coupled with a standout screenplay and memorable performances, ensures that The Wicker Man continues to captivate and disturb audiences, cementing its place in the pantheon of cult classics. Now let’s all pretend the 2003 remake with Nicholas Cage never happened.