The Wicker Man
The Wicker Man

Movie spotlight

The Wicker Man

1973
Movie
93 min
English

Police sergeant Neil Howie is called to an island village in search of a missing girl whom the locals claim never existed. The investigation is further complicated as Howie’s religious views clash with those of the island’s residents.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes91%
Metacritic74/100
Google Users87%
Director: Robin HardyGenres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

A devout police constable travels to a remote Scottish island in search of a missing girl, only to discover that the inhabitants are practicing pagan rituals. As he delves deeper into their strange customs, he finds himself ensnared in a terrifying mystery where his own faith is severely tested. The islanders' devotion to their ancient gods leads to a shocking and unforgettable climax.

Critical Reception

The Wicker Man is widely regarded as a masterpiece of folk horror, praised for its unsettling atmosphere, intelligent script, and standout performances. Critics lauded its unique blend of suspense, religious commentary, and psychological horror, making it a cult classic that continues to fascinate audiences.

What Reviewers Say

  • A chilling and sophisticated folk horror film with a deeply disturbing premise.

  • Praised for its atmospheric tension and challenging exploration of faith versus paganism.

  • Edward Woodward's performance as the tormented sergeant is a highlight.

Google audience: Audiences often praise 'The Wicker Man' for its unique and disturbing storyline, effective atmosphere, and the memorable performances, particularly from Christopher Lee and Edward Woodward. Many find it to be a thought-provoking and unsettling horror experience that stands out from more conventional genre films.

Fun Fact

The iconic Wicker Man structure used in the film was built on a beach and, due to its size, had to be transported to the filming location by helicopter. It was later burned for the film's climax.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review

TMDB Reviews

3 reviews
OuroborosSurfer

OuroborosSurfer

Here Edward Woodward stars as Sgt. Howie, a Christian Scottish policeman sent to the remote island of Summerisle to investigate the disappearance of a young girl. The horror of the Wicker Man is not the obvious kind that hits you in the...

CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Well the cinema was packed as we all sat though what seemed like an interminable preamble of interviews with those connected with the film - including Britt Ekland - before it all started. Was it worth it? Well, I didn't really think so. Po...

John Chard

John Chard

I believe in the life eternal, as promised to us by our Lord, Jesus Christ. Mainland Sergeant Neil Howie (Edward Woodward) flies off to the remote Scottish island of Summerisle to investigate the disappearance of a 12 year old girl. What...