The Wicker Man

One of the most original British horror films ever made, with a superb cast (Edward "the Equaliser" Woodward, the great Christopher Lee, Britt Ekland), surely one of the most astounding endings of any film around, and a definite personal favourite, anyone remotely interested in the horror genre should see The Wicker Man for several reasons.

Firstly, the plot and sense of place is expertly realised. Set on a remote island off the West coast of Scotland, the film seems to have the makings of well-trodden predictability: nosy outsider, suspicious locals, crazy old men warning the outsider, however the story develops in a wholly unforseeable fashion.

Secondly, Edward Woodward is a revelation. For those of you who had him down as a limited John Thaw-lookalike who could only manage wooden performances in The Equaliser, prepare to be surprised at his superb portrayal of the naive and puritanical mainland police officer.

Thirdly, Christopher Lee sings. Apparently they shot stacks of footage of Mr Lee singing but had to excise it to make the film of a more manageable length.

Fourthly, and I know I've said this before, but the ending just has to be seen to be believed.

There are countless other little gems in The Wicker Man, and I haven't even started on Britt Ekland's attempts at seducing Edward Woodward. A near-classic of British cinema.

Review by Mark Radice
Taken from EUFS Programme 1994-95