Hi all!

Today I am sharing five reasons to watch the 1973 cult horror classic – The Wicker Man. I first saw it in 2023 – during the 50th anniversary of its release – and it became an instant favourite. Sergeant Howie arrives on the small Scottish island of Summerisle, to investigate the report of a missing child. A conservative Christian, the policeman observes the residents’ frivolous sexual displays and strange pagan rituals. The more Sergeant Howie learns about the islanders’ strange practices, the closer he gets to tracking down the missing child. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

1.) The Pacing 

The Wicker Man has a run-time of only 102 minutes and yet, the pacing is pure perfection. From the the opening credits, we are thrust straight into the story. There is no messing about. As the horror builds, so does your interest. I really have to commend the way the movie was edited and put together.

2.) The Horror 

For a 1970’s movie, there is an impressive amount of impactful horror. The mystery behind the civilians of Summerisle is disturbing. There is a certain fever-dream quality to the film – gaslighting Howie into believing nothing is wrong. Watching him unravel is uncomfortable to witness.

3.) Christopher Lee 

Christopher Lee as Lord Summerisle is absolutely worth mentioning. In fact, the late actor declared this was his favourite role to play in the history of his career. He’s so eerily calm in his part. The light never quite reaches his eyes but he’s always smiling. The perfect villain in a pagan horror tale.

4.) The Twist Ending 

I did not see the twist ending coming. If you’ve seen Midsommar, I was expecting it go more in that direction. However, it took a different turn. A very intelligent one. It was the big reveal that made it a new favourite of mine.

5.) The Impact 

Decades after its release, the film still receives positive reviews from critics and is considered one of the top features of 1973. It holds a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average score of 8/10. Edward Woodward (Sergeant Howie), said it was his favourite movie to star in and that it has the best final shot of any film ever made. The Wicker Man continues to make quite an impact, with a lasting legacy.

Thank you so much for reading! Have you seen The Wicker Man? 

Peace & Love xoxo