THE WICKER MAN (1973)

Education

Learning

Celebrating

Title: The Wicker Man
Year:  1973
Director: Robin Hardy
Format: Blu-ray
Label: Studiocanal

Notes:

I watched this on TV last year and it had enough of an effect on me to schedule a screening for the night before May Day this year. Obvious yes but also basically an excuse to once again revel in the twisted charm of this great folk horror.

This was the 'Final Cut' of the film and includes about fives minutes that were not in the theatrical cut I saw on TV. The restored scenes generally improve the film. The prologue of the copper being holier than thou in church sets the tone well. The inclusion of the song Gently Johnny adds to the folky feeling. Less helpful is the short scene were Lord Summerisle instructs Willow in her part of the plan - this gives the game away a bit and weakens the shock of what follows.

Even when you know the conclusion there's lots of re-watch value in THE WICKER MAN. There are little details to enjoy throughout; the smirking of the landlord and the witchcraft on the school blackboard are just a couple of examples. One of the great aspects of this film, besides the creepy soundtrack and unforgettable conclusion, is the undeniable ambiguity the viewer feels about who to support. Who doesn't feel like singing along and celebrating with the islanders as the wicker man burns?