THE WICKER MAN (1973) - ♦♦♦♦♦

Directed by - Robin Hardy

Written by - Anthony Shaffer

Starring - Edward Woodrward, Britt Ekland, Christopher Lee

 

"A police sergeant is sent to a small pagan Scottish village to investigate on the disappearance of a local little girl whom the inhabitants of the island claim has never existed.

 

A strange, bizarre and unique vision. It's hard to believe that this film was almost obscured when first released, yet eventually it was rightfully re-established as one of the most defining moments in British horror history and indeed one of the most influential films of the kind. Its unsettling satirical and farcical undertones reveal digs at religious obsession.

 

However, the most chilling factor is provided by the strangeness and at the same time trendy element of the pagan rites. This aspect is also strengthened by the film's use of great folk music, a very important element of the film which adds to its uniqueness.

 

The Wicker Man also has one of the most rewarding final reveals of all time as well as its most iconic and unforgettable final images."

 

Horror, UK