Review of The Wicker Man (1973) by Richard V — 24 Mar 2009
It is undoubtedly deliberate that until the last 2 minutes, you are inclined to side with the unusual, cultish, liberated islanders than the uptight, restricted policeman, only to have this ripped away when the woozy, dream like atmosphere of the main body of the film is destroyed on top of the cliff top.
Perhpas like the Exorcist, this film thrives on a slightly mis judged myth. Like that other film, it is a subtle excercise which gnaws at fears and prejudices you didn't know you held rather than being a true horror film.
And like its 'twin', the film's bleak ending leaves you with the unnerving feeling that although it is short, slight on plot and dated, that something has just wormed into your brain. Put aside the modern cultural baggage of things like the League of Gentlemen and some episodes of the remake of Randall and Hopkirk, clearly influenced by this, and enjoy.
It may not change your life, but it will stay with you. Dated? Yes. Short on plot? Yes. Misrepresented by the myth? Undoubtedly. Worth watching. Oh yes.
This review of The Wicker Man (1973) was written by Richard V on 24 Mar 2009.
The Wicker Man has generally received mixed reviews.
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