Woodward said himself that when Howie says "Oh God, oh Jesus Christ" he is NOT blaspheming. He is actually calling on divine intervention. The final shot with the sun appearing behind the falling head was a complete accident. Good that you've put this out on Beltane. Blessings be!
Thank you for the info Peter! Very much appreciated and good to know. The sun shot was gorgeous! I was cutting it fine with editing, but so glad it got to be out on the day! Take care and thank you for watching
The Sargeant's name is a spoiler at the outset Howie is a middle eastern word for incense. If he had accepted Willow's invitation and thus lost his virginity, it could have saved his life.
That song that Britt Ekland sings, and the eerie song in the pub, where they start singing to the ceiling, those songs are so haunting, give me goosebumps every time.
The song the islanders sing as they burn Edward Woodward is _Sumer Is Icumen In_ (Summer has come) and it's one of the oldest songs on record, dating to the 13th century. Also, and this is extremely esoteric (if you know, you know), it's the exact same tune as the "We will mend it" song sung by the Mice on the Mouse Organ in the old _Bagpuss_ series.
Looking at it objectively, is Howie's sacrifice any more strange or horrifying than that of Jesus who was basically God sacrificing himself to himself so that he can forgive humans for being what he made them? I loved Lord Summerisle's line when the Sergeant asks if they've heard about Jesus: "Himself the son of a virgin, impregnated, I believe, by a ghost." Brilliant movie.
The Punch character does have pagan connections. According to historian/author Robert Graves book, "The White Goddess", there were people that were sacrificed to the old Druid gods choosing to become king for a day and given whatever he wished or rather 'fool for a day' and then killed to save the village or land from a plague. Punch represents the "Fool" that becomes King for a day. The victim's family was honored in his sacrifice. Human sacrifice was rare, but did happen in pagan U.K. and French Gaul. Roman historian Suetonius, wrote about Druid sacrifices burnt in a giant wicker man.
Stirling Smith was a film critic in New Orleans, LA , a friend of Christopher Lee, and invited him to premier the film there. The Archdiocese of New Orleans banned it. He moved the event to Baton Rouge where I was working at a TV station at the time and I interviewed Christopher Lee and Robin Hardy at the theater..
I have only watched this movie once. I loved it though, it was such a trip. I’m always onboard whenever Christopher Lee is in a movie. Thank you for reacting to this movie!
Great reaction to one of my absolute favourite movies. It's so unique that it's hard to pin down to a genre. Arguably more mystery/thriller than horror? I especially like that the villagers aren't presented as solely horrific, (which is my issue with Midsummer,) but clashing against Howie's extremely rigid christian values. Until you get to the end, that is 😅 The contrast between the old and new religions is also a theme in Arthurian stories. 2021's The Green Knight also has a "green chapel", a church reclaimed by nature, which represents the old religion.
Christianity has had a very unsavory past. Frankly, I'm rooting for the Pagans in this film. Crops can fail, even if you do everything right. Not saying sacrifice is the answer, but some people are old school. I've read in several places this was Christopher Lee's favorite film to make.
@@MoviesWithMarty Christopher Lee did this film for free ! A year later he was in the James Bond film The Man with The Golden Gun as was Britt Eckland , the landlord's Daughter and at one time a Wife of Peter Sellers and Rod Stewart . The School Mistress was played by Diane Cilento , one time Wife of Sean Connery . Edward Woodward was also in a comedy about bin men called Common as Muck .
Rabbits are born naked with their eyes shut; hares are born with fur and their eyes open. Thank you for showing yourself in colour when watching a colour film and in B&W when watching a B&W film. I appreciate this is not just a gimmick, but minimizes distraction. Genius. I wish all reaction videos did this. (Luckily, you are incandescently beautiful either way. Please, please watch Tod Browning's Freaks, You are such a sensitive soul I trust you with this beloved gem.
Loved your watch & review! I’ve always enjoyed The Wicker Man, been a huge fan of Christopher Lee since I was a kid. Other more modern films that are in same genre (at least to me) are The Ritual (2017) & Midsommar (2019). Both have that hidden creepy cult vibe, with more horror elements.
The song they are singing at the very end is "Sumer Is Icumen In" ----- the oldest known song in the English language. It is known to us from a manuscript copied between 1261 AD and 1264 AD, but the song is much older.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for watching this; very few people react to this masterpiece of cinema. I have been a fan of The Wicker Man since I saw it when I was about 15. It is arguably the greatest British horror film of all time & rightly so. Over the years, I visited several of the filming locations in Scotland; Plockton where Sgt Howie lands is an amazing little village near Kyle of Lochalsh on the north west coast. Back in 2007 I had the great honour of meeting Sir Christopher Lee. I’ve been a fan of his for as long as I could remember, thanks due to his incredible body of work with Hammer Films. We had a lengthy conversation about those films & the production of The Wicker Man. Right up until to his death, Lee remained adamant that there was a much longer cut of this film. Rumour has it, British Lion films disposed of hundreds of reels; one of which was this much longer cut of The Wicker Man. Then in 2013, we got The Final Cut of The Wicker Man. This involved a restoration of the original theatrical print & also the few additional scenes that had been re-edited into it for the directors cut several years earlier. Which ever version you watch, The Wicker Man always leaves a last impression on you. Fun Fact: when I was at first school we had an annual May Day Fair…….complete with May Pole Dancing. What can I say, I grew up in a village in the Yorkshire Dales. Several places in Cornwall still hold festivals around that time of the year. The most famous being the Obby 'Oss festival, which is held in Padstow every May Day.
Bravo Marty. So enjoyed watching you watch this film. This is one of the greatest movies ever made. [My pick for best film ever would have to be Lynch’s THE ELEPHANT MAN]. It was Christopher Lee’s favorite film of his career. …and what a career and life that man had! (I have some personal stories regarding this amazing man - I’ve been in theatre & film my whole life). Also, it’s always irritated me that Edward Woodward never got the accolades he deserved for this performance. He was absolutely brilliant. And everyone else was so obviously having such fun making this film. Thank you for all of the research you do with each film. You cannot imagine how much I can’t wait to return to Great Britain - it’s my favorite place in the world. Please never lose the incredible diversity of your people - I lived briefly in Islington whilst working on Lovejoy back in the 90s. Cried when I had to return to America. Anyway, cannot praise this film enough. Anthony Schaffer worked mostly in films whilst his twin brother Peter worked mostly in theatre writing the classics EQUUS & AMADEUS. So much talent assembled for this film. Again, bravo to you and your research.
Great reaction Marty, I have just discovered your channel, and subscribed. I love that it finished with Summer Is Acoming In. While Punch may not be that old, that is a song which dates back the 1261 at the latest. That the folk law is mainly English fits the story. This isn't the old tradition of the Island, its an imported one established by Lord Summerisles grandfather. As for film suggestions, have you seen Kind Hearts and Coronets, the most stylish of black comedies. Imagine if Oscar Wilde wrote a story about a serial killer, with Alec Guinness playing all of his victims, 8 roles in all.
there is some evidence that the burned ashes are a form of fertiliser, so burning things can if they spread the ashes into crops it could make them grow better.
Great reaction, felt very reminiscent of my first time, many decades ago, such a weird film, but easy to fall in love with the strangeness and the great folk music. So don’t keep the wicker man waiting!
I love this movie. I love the conflict between a sort of Neo-Paganism, which was pretty popular (though generally non-violent) at the time, particularly in England, and the ultra-stuffy, old-guard, British Christianity. Obviously, the islanders carry things too far, but both the people and Howie are blinded by their respective faiths. I also make the argument, which my wife isn't buying, that The Wicker Man is a stealth Musical. The songs don't just happen or enhance the mood, they're actually woven into the very story of the film, advancing the plot and exploring characters, like in a Musical. I'm sure others will mention it, but this is part of the "Folk Horror" subgenre, which is one I really enjoy, though there aren't a ton of great examples. I didn't love Midsommar (2019), but it captures some of this film's creepiness. I really liked The Ritual (2017), Kill List (2011), The Devil Rides Out (1968) (more on the Satanism side, as opposed to Paganism, but still solid, and features Christopher Lee in one of his favorite films), and Lair of the White Worm (1988) (the film is bugnuts crazy, and I love it). For an American angle on the genre, you might try Pumpkinhead (1988). As others have said, the remake of The Wicker Man with Nic Cage is bad. It has a bunch of things in it that I actually genuinely liked, but it really, really doesn't work. If you watch it as an unintentional comedy...I mean, I laughed pretty hard more than once. But it's still pretty bad.
Edward Woodward starred as Robert McCall in the television series, The Equalizer. The Denzel Washington movies ( Equalizer 1,2&3) were based on the character in that series.
Although obviously modern pagans don't commit human (or even animal) sacrifice, some places still have wicker man burnings on Beltane, and I can tell you they're very impressive!
Interestingly the annual Beltane wicker man festival held near Auchencairn in Galloway was inspired by the movie and, although now associated with paganism, it does not originate at all in any pagan religion.
Really great to see you discover this old classic. Anthony Shaffer loved his elaborate traps, and I think this one suckers in everyone who's watching it for the first time. Loved the deep dive into the trivia - I've heard it called a cursed movie, and it's certainly got a fascinating backstory.
Thanks, Marty! 🔥 Robin Hardy did a good job of directing this. 🔸 Kudos for your THE VICAR OF DIBLEY reference. My mother, my eldest niece and I all love that series.
A lovely film to end the May Day with, especially after celebrating Walpurgis Night yesterday by a large bonfire in a field nearby, together with the rest of the community here. That was enough Christian tradition for me. At least we didn't burn any poor animals ... or police man officers. :D A fine pagan springtime to you, Marty!
Edward Woodward is great! He's best performance is in "Breaker Morant" (excellent movie - highly recommend, about the Boar War of 1900 South Africa) Woodward started his career playing "Callan" in the excellent late 60's and early 70's TV show "Callan" (check it out sometime). Woodward was also in the greepy/spooky movie "The Appointment" other psychological 70's thrillers: Magic The Shout I Start Counting The Mafu Cage The Other 2-cents
Several years ago in my wild youth we were playing a gig in a small village and had to stay at the local village and despite being in the south of England this place had a heavy Wicker man vibe. We to a man left the bedroom door ajar! Thanks for reacting to my favourite film and making me reminisce about my wild formative years!
this was a passion peice for Lee i believe,, the fact you used Hot Fuzz and the NWA head is part of a cult, and he was played by Edward Woodward made me smile
For more unsettling country-based British horror: Blood on Satan's Claw (1971), Witchfinder General (1968) and the more recent A Field in England (2013) and something that always gave me a similar feeling to Wicker Man, despite being completely different, Australia's 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' (1975). Interestingly all of these are period pieces. Wicker Man stands alone in it's contemporary seting.
Fantastic video! What a movie! Felt the same way. At first I had no idea what genre this movie even was, i thought it was like a hippie musical! But that scene in the pub, where they all start singing the eerie song to the ceiling, that gave me chills and I got real intrigued. But even then......I just figured it would be a low-budget ending! Not this spectacularly horrific, disturbing, one-of-a-kind cinematic experience!
Seems like you are watching the director's cut, which unfortunately isn't as good as the original version. You are right that they added scenes that didn't need to be there. For example the first appearance of Christopher Lee in the original is when Howie goes to see him at his mansion. By this time he has been built up throught the words of the townsfolk, but with the added scene of him appearing under Willow's window it takes away from the mystique. Having said that, even the subpar version is still a magnificent movie.
I believe that the communion scene was a statement about religious rites. What may seem normal to one faith, such as transubstantiation, would seem morbid and bizarre to followers of another faith. Similarly, Howie mocked the concept of parthenogenesis but seemed offended when Lord Summerisle compared it to the immaculate conception.
Brit Ekland was pregnant at the time so she is shot from the waist up only, she was also dubbed with a Scottish accent. She was married to Rod Stewart at the time, who was not happy with his wife bearing all. He tried to get it withdrawn and buy up all the copies.
In 1978, Robin Hardy expanded Shaffer's screenplay into a full novel, incorporating all the previously deleted scenes, unfilmed material and a ton of backstory and brand new content. Howie is engaged to be married but is keeping himself pure until the wedding, hence the reason he's a virgin. And the conspiracy to trap him into his ultimate fate goes back well before the film makes you think it does. Highly recommended.
Glad you mentioned all the versions out there. There are web sites that have extra scenes and dialogue. And it is still one of the best British horror films (correction: horror, full stop) of all times!
It’s a weird coincidence (or…is it?) that I was thinking about this movie earlier today before I saw you had posted your reaction to it. I just happened to have an epiphany this morning that had Howie succumbed to Willow’s seduction, it might have saved his life. And I’m guessing the rest of the island would’ve been pretty ticked off at her ruining their sacrifice (because I’m guessing virginity is a prerequisite?). Definitely the OG of Folk Horror! It was amusing to watch the look on your face as the sunny, cheerful horror began to unfold. For a modern take in this same vein, I heartily recommend Midsommar!
Don't keep the Wicker man waiting....Nice one Marty, Glad you got to watching this. Excellent movie but I think I've only ever seen the shorter version, didn't know this version existed. Good job. Yes, psychological horror is how I would describe it.
What is terrifying in this movie, is EVERYONE he meets is in on it. I hope the many scenes that got ripped out of this movie eventually see the light of the day. I’ve got the novelisation as I’m a huge WickerFan. There’s 3 official released versions of the movie (the theatrical cut-87 mins, the Final Cut-92 mins and the Directors Cut-99 mins) because they cut the film to bits before distribution
I notice you mentioned Cornwall and wondered if there was many horror movies set in Cornwall. There are actually two from Hammer Studios. The Reptile and Plague of the Zombies which are definitely worth a watch :D
When I submitted my sf/noir manuscript to my editor in the story I make reference to an 'art-house, musical, horror film' and he scribbled in the margins that 'The Wicker Man' was his favorite film. If you want a modern horror film with 'Wicker Man' vibes see 'Midsommar.'
@@bucklberryreturns disagree in my opinion. Midsummer had a great script, but the nature of art is that is strikes each person differently and no honest reaction can be 'wrong'
@@revans18 Absolutely fair to have your own opinion, I just felt the reaction to 'events' being a shrug and carrying on, was a totally unreasonable reaction. In a formula horror, everyone not immediately fleeing is fine. When something is as praised as Midsommar for it's originality *ahem* does the same thing …bleh.
@@bucklberryreturns Suspension of Disbelief is such an idiosyncratic thing. I can see why it bounced you out of the film but I had no such reaction. However the characters in Ti West's 'X' broke me over and over...
Well done, @movieswithmarty. I recommend "Night of the Demon" (NOT the American cut "Curse of the Demon"). Also "Village of the Damned" and its pseudo-sequel "Children of the Damned." I also think you will love the astonishing omnibus horror film "Dead of Night" with Michael Redgrave's greatest performance, part of which clearly inspired "Psycho." #movieswithmarty
Great reaction to an under appreciated film. So you have a fondness for fishing villages. My favourite movie in that setting is the wonderful Local Hero. No spoilers short of saying that it has a fantastic score by Mark Knopfler and an early appearance of Peter Capaldi. If you haven't already seen it give it a go.
Yep, I guessed early on that she was dubbed. Britt Ekland is Swedish and having seen her in other films, it was definitely not her voice. Also, she was pregnant during filming which was why a double was used in the long shots.
22:02 It's by no means the same tune, but it's got a similar feel to the popular _Carol of the Bells,_ especially when that chorus of "nude" women was singing it.
Talking of ‘The day the earth caught fire’ (1951) it’s a wonderful British science fiction movie that is well worth a watch. The cinematography is fantastic and some really cool visual effects. The science fiction is quite light, although a great base for the story, it’s the writing and acting along with the direction that makes this film special.
Certainly one of the greatest horror films ever made. It is a brilliant, searing treatise on the evils of religion: Pagan vs Christian, Lord Summerisle vs Sgt. Howie, blind zealots whose beliefs are absolute and whose religions have done unspeakable horrors in the names of their gods and yet are held by their believers as the one true source of ultimate good though they are only warped, empty fairy tales.
Ken Russell's brilliant film "The Devils" has a comparably weird/surreal/horrific vibe to this one, and is based on a true story. I highly recommend that you watch this, not that I want to keep you waiting.
Marty, you are the perfect patsy for this movie. A total innocent and you fell for every ruse, feint, and joke. Kudos.
Woodward said himself that when Howie says "Oh God, oh Jesus Christ" he is NOT blaspheming. He is actually calling on divine intervention. The final shot with the sun appearing behind the falling head was a complete accident.
Good that you've put this out on Beltane. Blessings be!
He later gos on to repeat his last lines in the movie hot fuzz
Blessed Be Happy Beltaine
Thank you for the info Peter! Very much appreciated and good to know. The sun shot was gorgeous!
I was cutting it fine with editing, but so glad it got to be out on the day! Take care and thank you for watching
@@kirstygunn9149 Yarp 😅 Brilliant that they got him doing the lines again. Thanks for watching Kirsty!
@@ianjohnson7646 Blessed be, happy belated Beltaine!
The Sargeant's name is a spoiler at the outset Howie is a middle eastern word for incense.
If he had accepted Willow's invitation and thus lost his virginity, it could have saved his life.
So sex does save lives.
It would have saved his life, not could. When he said to Britt Ekland he doesn't do sex before marraige, it confirmed his virginity.
I have to admit that I sang along with the islanders when I first saw the film. I was taken up by the pagan love of the Old Gods.
Blessed be
Edward Woodward was the original Equaliser in the early 80's and also played Callan :)
"Don't keep the Wicker Man waiting."
Thank you for watching!! I really appreciate it 🤗
@@MoviesWithMarty It's my pleasure. 🌱
This is far superior to the remake. Great movie.
It's not a remake, it's a re image, a different take on the same story
@@valley_robot And it is totally unneccessary rubbish
That goes without saying.
@@valley_robotyeah, sure, let's go with that 😅😅
Not the bees!
That song that Britt Ekland sings, and the eerie song in the pub, where they start singing to the ceiling, those songs are so haunting, give me goosebumps every time.
The song the islanders sing as they burn Edward Woodward is _Sumer Is Icumen In_ (Summer has come) and it's one of the oldest songs on record, dating to the 13th century. Also, and this is extremely esoteric (if you know, you know), it's the exact same tune as the "We will mend it" song sung by the Mice on the Mouse Organ in the old _Bagpuss_ series.
Looking at it objectively, is Howie's sacrifice any more strange or horrifying than that of Jesus who was basically God sacrificing himself to himself so that he can forgive humans for being what he made them?
I loved Lord Summerisle's line when the Sergeant asks if they've heard about Jesus: "Himself the son of a virgin, impregnated, I believe, by a ghost."
Brilliant movie.
Sargeant Howie plays the doctor on Hot Fuzz 😂😂😂😂
The Punch character does have pagan connections. According to historian/author Robert Graves book, "The White Goddess", there were people that were sacrificed to the old Druid gods choosing to become king for a day and given whatever he wished or rather 'fool for a day' and then killed to save the village or land from a plague. Punch represents the "Fool" that becomes King for a day. The victim's family was honored in his sacrifice. Human sacrifice was rare, but did happen in pagan U.K. and French Gaul. Roman historian Suetonius, wrote about Druid sacrifices burnt in a giant wicker man.
Stirling Smith was a film critic in New Orleans, LA , a friend of Christopher Lee, and invited him to premier the film there. The Archdiocese of New Orleans banned it. He moved the event to Baton Rouge where I was working at a TV station at the time and I interviewed Christopher Lee and Robin Hardy at the theater..
Summer Isle 1974: Best Crop Ever!
Definitely the best crop in years... that's for sure.
Thanks for watching ReynoldsMathey!
I have only watched this movie once. I loved it though, it was such a trip. I’m always onboard whenever Christopher Lee is in a movie. Thank you for reacting to this movie!
Great reaction to one of my absolute favourite movies. It's so unique that it's hard to pin down to a genre. Arguably more mystery/thriller than horror? I especially like that the villagers aren't presented as solely horrific, (which is my issue with Midsummer,) but clashing against Howie's extremely rigid christian values. Until you get to the end, that is 😅
The contrast between the old and new religions is also a theme in Arthurian stories. 2021's The Green Knight also has a "green chapel", a church reclaimed by nature, which represents the old religion.
Imagine if it was Robert Patrick as the T-1000 asking the guys at the harbor if they have seen this girl.
Christianity has had a very unsavory past. Frankly, I'm rooting for the Pagans in this film.
Crops can fail, even if you do everything right. Not saying sacrifice is the answer, but some people are old school.
I've read in several places this was Christopher Lee's favorite film to make.
the pub landlord was the mime artist who trained bowie and Kate bush
woohoo! filing that one away for when I'm on Jeopardy!
Woah, that's amazing!! Thank you Jim! I love finding out random facts like that. Thanks for watching too!
@@MoviesWithMarty Lindsay kemp was his name en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lindsay_Kemp
@@MoviesWithMarty Christopher Lee did this film for free ! A year later he was in the James Bond film The Man with The Golden Gun as was Britt Eckland , the landlord's Daughter and at one time a Wife of Peter Sellers and Rod Stewart . The School Mistress was played by Diane Cilento , one time Wife of Sean Connery . Edward Woodward was also in a comedy about bin men called Common as Muck .
Pretty much every location you see in this film, interior and exterior, still looks almost identical today!
The soundtrack to this movie is really great. This kind of horror sticks with you long after a simple monster movie is long forgotten.
I love this film. So glad to watch it with you, especially because I'd never seen The Final Cut. Your research is impeccable!
Rabbits are born naked with their eyes shut; hares are born with fur and their eyes open.
Thank you for showing yourself in colour when watching a colour film and in B&W when watching a B&W film. I appreciate this is not just a gimmick, but minimizes distraction. Genius. I wish all reaction videos did this. (Luckily, you are incandescently beautiful either way.
Please, please watch Tod Browning's Freaks, You are such a sensitive soul I trust you with this beloved gem.
Loved your watch & review! I’ve always enjoyed The Wicker Man, been a huge fan of Christopher Lee since I was a kid. Other more modern films that are in same genre (at least to me) are The Ritual (2017) & Midsommar (2019). Both have that hidden creepy cult vibe, with more horror elements.
The song they are singing at the very end is "Sumer Is Icumen In" ----- the oldest known song in the English language. It is known to us from a manuscript copied between 1261 AD and 1264 AD, but the song is much older.
Great reaction Marty 😊
Thank you, thank you, thank you for watching this; very few people react to this masterpiece of cinema.
I have been a fan of The Wicker Man since I saw it when I was about 15. It is arguably the greatest British horror film of all time & rightly so.
Over the years, I visited several of the filming locations in Scotland; Plockton where Sgt Howie lands is an amazing little village near Kyle of Lochalsh on the north west coast.
Back in 2007 I had the great honour of meeting Sir Christopher Lee. I’ve been a fan of his for as long as I could remember, thanks due to his incredible body of work with Hammer Films. We had a lengthy conversation about those films & the production of The Wicker Man.
Right up until to his death, Lee remained adamant that there was a much longer cut of this film. Rumour has it, British Lion films disposed of hundreds of reels; one of which was this much longer cut of The Wicker Man.
Then in 2013, we got The Final Cut of The Wicker Man. This involved a restoration of the original theatrical print & also the few additional scenes that had been re-edited into it for the directors cut several years earlier.
Which ever version you watch, The Wicker Man always leaves a last impression on you.
Fun Fact: when I was at first school we had an annual May Day Fair…….complete with May Pole Dancing. What can I say, I grew up in a village in the Yorkshire Dales.
Several places in Cornwall still hold festivals around that time of the year. The most famous being the Obby 'Oss festival, which is held in Padstow every May Day.
Bravo Marty. So enjoyed watching you watch this film. This is one of the greatest movies ever made. [My pick for best film ever would have to be Lynch’s THE ELEPHANT MAN]. It was Christopher Lee’s favorite film of his career. …and what a career and life that man had! (I have some personal stories regarding this amazing man - I’ve been in theatre & film my whole life). Also, it’s always irritated me that Edward Woodward never got the accolades he deserved for this performance. He was absolutely brilliant. And everyone else was so obviously having such fun making this film. Thank you for all of the research you do with each film. You cannot imagine how much I can’t wait to return to Great Britain - it’s my favorite place in the world. Please never lose the incredible diversity of your people - I lived briefly in Islington whilst working on Lovejoy back in the 90s. Cried when I had to return to America. Anyway, cannot praise this film enough. Anthony Schaffer worked mostly in films whilst his twin brother Peter worked mostly in theatre writing the classics EQUUS & AMADEUS. So much talent assembled for this film. Again, bravo to you and your research.
One of my most favorite creepy movies. Well done, Marty!
Thank you so much Celladora! I'm so glad you liked the video. It really is one of those really creep under your skin adventures
I have to say...this is not "what Paganism is/was". It is seen throught the lens of a horror flick, and changed to fit the plot
Great reaction Marty, I have just discovered your channel, and subscribed. I love that it finished with Summer Is Acoming In. While Punch may not be that old, that is a song which dates back the 1261 at the latest. That the folk law is mainly English fits the story. This isn't the old tradition of the Island, its an imported one established by Lord Summerisles grandfather. As for film suggestions, have you seen Kind Hearts and Coronets, the most stylish of black comedies. Imagine if Oscar Wilde wrote a story about a serial killer, with Alec Guinness playing all of his victims, 8 roles in all.
there is some evidence that the burned ashes are a form of fertiliser, so burning things can if they spread the ashes into crops it could make them grow better.
Also this film is considered part of the ‘unholy trinity’ of British folk horror along with ‘Blood on Satan’s Cala’ & ‘The Witchfinder General’
Great reaction, felt very reminiscent of my first time, many decades ago, such a weird film, but easy to fall in love with the strangeness and the great folk music. So don’t keep the wicker man waiting!
I love this movie. I love the conflict between a sort of Neo-Paganism, which was pretty popular (though generally non-violent) at the time, particularly in England, and the ultra-stuffy, old-guard, British Christianity. Obviously, the islanders carry things too far, but both the people and Howie are blinded by their respective faiths.
I also make the argument, which my wife isn't buying, that The Wicker Man is a stealth Musical. The songs don't just happen or enhance the mood, they're actually woven into the very story of the film, advancing the plot and exploring characters, like in a Musical.
I'm sure others will mention it, but this is part of the "Folk Horror" subgenre, which is one I really enjoy, though there aren't a ton of great examples. I didn't love Midsommar (2019), but it captures some of this film's creepiness. I really liked The Ritual (2017), Kill List (2011), The Devil Rides Out (1968) (more on the Satanism side, as opposed to Paganism, but still solid, and features Christopher Lee in one of his favorite films), and Lair of the White Worm (1988) (the film is bugnuts crazy, and I love it). For an American angle on the genre, you might try Pumpkinhead (1988).
As others have said, the remake of The Wicker Man with Nic Cage is bad. It has a bunch of things in it that I actually genuinely liked, but it really, really doesn't work. If you watch it as an unintentional comedy...I mean, I laughed pretty hard more than once. But it's still pretty bad.
Edward Woodward starred as Robert McCall in the television series, The Equalizer. The Denzel Washington movies ( Equalizer 1,2&3) were based on the character in that series.
Although obviously modern pagans don't commit human (or even animal) sacrifice, some places still have wicker man burnings on Beltane, and I can tell you they're very impressive!
Interestingly the annual Beltane wicker man festival held near Auchencairn in Galloway was inspired by the movie and, although now associated with paganism, it does not originate at all in any pagan religion.
Really great to see you discover this old classic. Anthony Shaffer loved his elaborate traps, and I think this one suckers in everyone who's watching it for the first time. Loved the deep dive into the trivia - I've heard it called a cursed movie, and it's certainly got a fascinating backstory.
If I recall correctly, Tacitus wrote about the Wicker Man some two millennia ago.
I just recognized The Old Gardener as being in A Clockwork Orange.
Thanks, Marty! 🔥 Robin Hardy did a good job of directing this. 🔸 Kudos for your THE VICAR OF DIBLEY reference. My mother, my eldest niece and I all love that series.
Edward Woodward was such a great actor. For me his modt iconic role is Callam.
this is one of the best British movies ever made
A lovely film to end the May Day with, especially after celebrating Walpurgis Night yesterday by a large bonfire in a field nearby, together with the rest of the community here. That was enough Christian tradition for me. At least we didn't burn any poor animals ... or police man officers. :D
A fine pagan springtime to you, Marty!
Edward Woodward is great! He's best performance is in "Breaker Morant" (excellent movie - highly recommend, about the Boar War of 1900 South Africa)
Woodward started his career playing "Callan" in the excellent late 60's and early 70's TV show "Callan" (check it out sometime).
Woodward was also in the greepy/spooky movie "The Appointment"
other psychological 70's thrillers:
Magic
The Shout
I Start Counting
The Mafu Cage
The Other
2-cents
The grand residence where he initially meets Lord Summerisle is Culzean Castle in Ayrshire.
Several years ago in my wild youth we were playing a gig in a small village and had to stay at the local village and despite being in the south of England this place had a heavy Wicker man vibe.
We to a man left the bedroom door ajar!
Thanks for reacting to my favourite film and making me reminisce about my wild formative years!
this was a passion peice for Lee i believe,, the fact you used Hot Fuzz and the NWA head is part of a cult, and he was played by Edward Woodward made me smile
For more unsettling country-based British horror:
Blood on Satan's Claw (1971), Witchfinder General (1968) and the more recent A Field in England (2013)
and something that always gave me a similar feeling to Wicker Man, despite being completely different, Australia's 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' (1975).
Interestingly all of these are period pieces. Wicker Man stands alone in it's contemporary seting.
brilliant film, love it.... one of the most peculiar movies ever made
Fantastic video! What a movie! Felt the same way. At first I had no idea what genre this movie even was, i thought it was like a hippie musical! But that scene in the pub, where they all start singing the eerie song to the ceiling, that gave me chills and I got real intrigued. But even then......I just figured it would be a low-budget ending! Not this spectacularly horrific, disturbing, one-of-a-kind cinematic experience!
Seems like you are watching the director's cut, which unfortunately isn't as good as the original version. You are right that they added scenes that didn't need to be there. For example the first appearance of Christopher Lee in the original is when Howie goes to see him at his mansion. By this time he has been built up throught the words of the townsfolk, but with the added scene of him appearing under Willow's window it takes away from the mystique. Having said that, even the subpar version is still a magnificent movie.
I believe that the communion scene was a statement about religious rites. What may seem normal to one faith, such as transubstantiation, would seem morbid and bizarre to followers of another faith. Similarly, Howie mocked the concept of parthenogenesis but seemed offended when Lord Summerisle compared it to the immaculate conception.
One of the strangest movies. And so British in it's themes and tone!
Brit Ekland was pregnant at the time so she is shot from the waist up only, she was also dubbed with a Scottish accent. She was married to Rod Stewart at the time, who was not happy with his wife bearing all. He tried to get it withdrawn and buy up all the copies.
What you are watching is the UNbutchered version. The BETTER one.
In 1978, Robin Hardy expanded Shaffer's screenplay into a full novel, incorporating all the previously deleted scenes, unfilmed material and a ton of backstory and brand new content. Howie is engaged to be married but is keeping himself pure until the wedding, hence the reason he's a virgin. And the conspiracy to trap him into his ultimate fate goes back well before the film makes you think it does. Highly recommended.
Glad you mentioned all the versions out there. There are web sites that have extra scenes and dialogue.
And it is still one of the best British horror films (correction: horror, full stop) of all times!
It’s a weird coincidence (or…is it?) that I was thinking about this movie earlier today before I saw you had posted your reaction to it. I just happened to have an epiphany this morning that had Howie succumbed to Willow’s seduction, it might have saved his life. And I’m guessing the rest of the island would’ve been pretty ticked off at her ruining their sacrifice (because I’m guessing virginity is a prerequisite?). Definitely the OG of Folk Horror! It was amusing to watch the look on your face as the sunny, cheerful horror began to unfold. For a modern take in this same vein, I heartily recommend Midsommar!
Don't keep the Wicker man waiting....Nice one Marty, Glad you got to watching this.
Excellent movie but I think I've only ever seen the shorter version, didn't know this version existed. Good job.
Yes, psychological horror is how I would describe it.
This was great.
My favorite Scottish movie though, is Local Hero.
What is terrifying in this movie, is EVERYONE he meets is in on it. I hope the many scenes that got ripped out of this movie eventually see the light of the day. I’ve got the novelisation as I’m a huge WickerFan. There’s 3 official released versions of the movie (the theatrical cut-87 mins, the Final Cut-92 mins and the Directors Cut-99 mins) because they cut the film to bits before distribution
I notice you mentioned Cornwall and wondered if there was many horror movies set in Cornwall. There are actually two from Hammer Studios. The Reptile and Plague of the Zombies which are definitely worth a watch :D
One of my faves...avoid remake at Al coasts except laughs🎩
When I submitted my sf/noir manuscript to my editor in the story I make reference to an 'art-house, musical, horror film' and he scribbled in the margins that 'The Wicker Man' was his favorite film. If you want a modern horror film with 'Wicker Man' vibes see 'Midsommar.'
Shame about the serious screenplay issues, it had great promise.
@@bucklberryreturns disagree in my opinion. Midsummer had a great script, but the nature of art is that is strikes each person differently and no honest reaction can be 'wrong'
@@revans18 Absolutely fair to have your own opinion, I just felt the reaction to 'events' being a shrug and carrying on, was a totally unreasonable reaction.
In a formula horror, everyone not immediately fleeing is fine. When something is as praised as Midsommar for it's originality *ahem* does the same thing …bleh.
@@bucklberryreturns Suspension of Disbelief is such an idiosyncratic thing. I can see why it bounced you out of the film but I had no such reaction. However the characters in Ti West's 'X' broke me over and over...
Well done, @movieswithmarty. I recommend "Night of the Demon" (NOT the American cut "Curse of the Demon"). Also "Village of the Damned" and its pseudo-sequel "Children of the Damned." I also think you will love the astonishing omnibus horror film "Dead of Night" with Michael Redgrave's greatest performance, part of which clearly inspired "Psycho." #movieswithmarty
Great reaction to an under appreciated film. So you have a fondness for fishing villages. My favourite movie in that setting is the wonderful Local Hero. No spoilers short of saying that it has a fantastic score by Mark Knopfler and an early appearance of Peter Capaldi. If you haven't already seen it give it a go.
Nice thank you.
Ah but what makes one god better than another - deny one god and you can indeed deny them all :-)
Michael Deeley is indeed a real jerk. This wasn't the last time he tried to rain all over talented people's work unfortunately.
I believe a lot of Howie's last shouted exhortation from the wicker man was improvised by Woodward.
Nick Frost is right about the remake.
Willow was completely dubbed as the actress couldn't do a Scots accent and it's not her arse in the nude dance🎩
Yep, I guessed early on that she was dubbed. Britt Ekland is Swedish and having seen her in other films, it was definitely not her voice. Also, she was pregnant during filming which was why a double was used in the long shots.
The scratchy scenes are reclaimed. They were cut out of the released version.
The book is brilliant.
Love this movie. All three versions.
Personally think the theatrical cut is best. Better pacing. The reveals make more sense. Still good though no matter which version.
Creepy, bizarre and intriguing film! I’m sure it’s far better than the remake. Besides I don’t want to keep the Wicker Man waiting.
Would you? 😉
22:02 It's by no means the same tune, but it's got a similar feel to the popular _Carol of the Bells,_ especially when that chorus of "nude" women was singing it.
"November" (2017) is a very good folk-horror film. Set in Estonia.
Talking of ‘The day the earth caught fire’ (1951) it’s a wonderful British science fiction movie that is well worth a watch. The cinematography is fantastic and some really cool visual effects. The science fiction is quite light, although a great base for the story, it’s the writing and acting along with the direction that makes this film special.
I think you meant “The Day The Earth Stood Still” (which came out in 1951), and not “The Day The Earth Caught Fire”, which didn’t come out until 1961.
@@MsAppassionata Nope I meant 'caught fire' but typo'd the date, which you correctly state is 1961 - thanks for noticing.
if you want to see the tumpton version of the wicker man check the video for Radiohead's song Burn the Witch
Certainly one of the greatest horror films ever made. It is a brilliant, searing treatise on the evils of religion: Pagan vs Christian, Lord Summerisle vs Sgt. Howie, blind zealots whose beliefs are absolute and whose religions have done unspeakable horrors in the names of their gods and yet are held by their believers as the one true source of ultimate good though they are only warped, empty fairy tales.
Ken Russell's brilliant film "The Devils" has a comparably weird/surreal/horrific vibe to this one, and is based on a true story. I highly recommend that you watch this, not that I want to keep you waiting.
Good May day horror. Not a lot of them
I'm surprised you didn't twig straight away lol.
Since you are covering classes, how about City Lights by Charley Chaplain?
Well, you have to watch the remake now. Or else the bees.
I just watched it on Xbox I recently went on the ride Alton towers
Rabbit ears are bent over,hares' straight up🎩
The poorer quality bits are recovered lost bits🎩
Doesn't look like the best place for growing crops anyway
Who wrote the letter and why?🤔
Haares are noticeable bigger.
I take it you haven’t been to Helston for the Furry Dance!
29:03 "I didn't expect her to be naked."
Really? Haven't you been watching the film? 🤣
Too gross. It's sleazy. Eww.
Like Lucky Number 13. Other than the terrible "Not the bees!" remake with Nicholas Cage there is the sequel The Wicker Tree.