The Wicker Man

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Luis Ivan M Often regarded as the quintessential folk-horror film, The Wicker Man establishes its protagonist and central mystery from the outset. As the story progresses, we follow him into an isolated setting that grows increasingly peculiar, and the film skillfully sustains our curiosity as each new detail about this strange community is revealed. Even if the structure isn’t strictly conventional, the first two acts maintain a solid rhythm and gradually build intrigue. The third act delivers an effective plot twist, but after that point the film becomes quite predictable. In hindsight, the climax feels as though it’s missing an additional layer, some element that could have heightened tension or offered a faint sense of hope, even if only to subvert it. Despite this, the screenplay is largely strong, with a clear thematic focus on the clash between extreme religious beliefs. The performances work well, and Christopher Lee’s appearance is particularly memorable. The soundtrack (dominated by folk music)deepens the sense of place and immerses us in the film’s cultural world, though a brief use of acid-style electric guitar feels tonally out of place. While the film is not conventionally scary and some viewers may hesitate to label it "horror," its folkloric imagery, Celtic-inspired world-building, and atmospheric music give it a haunting, enduring power. Overall, it’s a richly textured experience and an essential watch for anyone interested in folk horror or the evolution of the genre. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 11/23/25 Full Review Ethan H. The film is best described as “horror” as seen through a heavily ‘70s flower child colored lens. I will however say it captivates your attention and of course Christopher Lee is excellent. At one point I did think I had mistakenly happened upon a musical. Personally, the music and acting left much to be desired. Finally, I admit I am a bit biased as I hated the ending. It didn’t crescendo to a satisfying conclusion. It just fizzled out to ashes… pun fully intended. Rated 2/5 Stars •  Rated 2 out of 5 stars 11/17/25 Full Review Fatima R. The Wicker Man works because it doesn’t waste time. It’s simple, direct, & gets straight to the cult energy without filler. I always appreciate horror that focuses on discomfort instead of jump scares, & this movie does exactly that. The whole time, you feel like something is very wrong even when everything looks calm on the surface. I was nervous for the guy from the moment he showed up, & the tension just kept tightening. It’s slow in a deliberate way, & that’s what makes it hit. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 11/14/25 Full Review EE D Really couldn't connect, the old fashion acting that is more of a grotesque then acting managed to put a thin wall between me and the movie. If anyone will try to act in this way nowadays i think he/she'll be thrown down from all the stairs. The story itself is interesting and the ending is intriguing. Rated 1.5/5 Stars •  Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars 11/11/25 Full Review chris m The irony of being moral. From the very first frame, ‘The Wicker Man’ captivates with cinematography that seems to whisper more than it shows: a delicate balance of composition, lighting, and, above all, color, turning every shot into a small visual enigma. It’s one of those films where every element works in harmony, without missteps, and that aesthetic unity becomes an essential part of the tension and unease that permeate the story. The plot, seemingly simple, slowly tangles itself into interconnected layers without ever losing clarity. As its synopsis suggests, the narrative guides the viewer toward a disturbing truth—achieved through a precise script and impeccable direction that sustain the unsettling tone from start to finish. Edward Woodward embodies the protagonist with firm character, presence, and charisma—exactly what a role of this magnitude demands. Christopher Lee, meanwhile, builds a character as psychologically disturbing as he is memorable: every gesture and line carries a restrained tension that never needs exaggeration to leave an impact. The community portrayed in the film is, in itself, a remarkable achievement: written and presented with meticulous care, its rituals and customs emerge naturally through different points in the narrative, reinforcing the psychological weight of the story. The film leaves a lasting impression—an ironic reflection on blind devotion and the need to believe in something greater than oneself, suggested with precision and without the need for explicit statements. Subtly, the film also raises the question of what it means to uphold a moral and ethical code in an environment that doesn’t share it. The protagonist acts with integrity and conviction, yet the story, in its characteristic irony, shows that even the firmest righteousness comes at a price—one that impacts the narrative without ever being overtly pointed out. The soundtrack accompanies and reinforces the atmosphere, unsettling as much as any plot twist. It’s no coincidence that contemporary filmmakers like Ari Aster have drawn inspiration from this work for their own explorations of folklore and horror, maintaining a remarkable parallel that speaks to its lasting influence. Ultimately, ‘The Wicker Man’ masterfully combines aesthetics, narrative, and psychological tension, becoming a classic that continues to surprise, disturb, and leave its mark long after the viewing experience. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 11/06/25 Full Review Charlie N. Absolutely brilliant. My top horror of all time. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/31/25 Full Review Read all reviews

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