Review of The Wicker Man (1973) by David S — 09 Dec 2009

Brilliant horror thriller. I'm always interested in religious things so something that analysis christianity and paganism in the 20th century is a must. I especially like the clash between devout christian temperence and wild pagan sexuality.

Edward Woodward gives an electrifying performance, as he gets ever more shocked and annoyed and scared, making Howie dedicated and likable when he could have been a hate figure for being so religious.

Howie is one of my favourite ever film characters. He is a good man and what the residents of the island were doing was horrible. Theres now a certain odd dimension when watching it now Edward Woodward is dead.

Christopher Lee, despite having a small role is also very good and charming. Its also interesting that he does not believe himself but encourages it to consolidate his power, a critisim of many organised religions.

I wonder what will happen next year to the island. What is also great about the film is that it is open to enterpritation. A christian and an atheists can watch and enjoy and take different things from it, believing it speaks to them.

Finally, what happened to director Robin Hardy? This is excellent. He should have made loads of films since.