Sun Jan 25 04:50:00 UTC 2026: # “Wicker” Film Review: A Bawdy Fable on Love and Social Disruption

The Story:
Richard Lawson of The Hollywood Reporter reviews “Wicker,” a new film by Eleanor Wilson and Alex Huston Fischer. The film, based on the short story “The Wicker Husband” by Ursula Wills, is described as a bawdy comedy about a fisherwoman who commissions a husband made of wicker. Starring Olivia Colman, Alexander Skarsgard, and Peter Dinklage, the film explores themes of marriage, longing, and social disruption in a fantastical setting reminiscent of 1600s England, but with unique customs. The review highlights the film’s blend of whimsy and mature themes, noting its potential to be scandalous in a past era.

Key Points:

  • The film “Wicker” is directed by Eleanor Wilson and Alex Huston Fischer.
  • The plot revolves around a fisherwoman (played by Olivia Colman) who asks a basket weaver (Peter Dinklage) to create a husband made of wicker (Alexander Skarsgard).
  • The wicker husband’s arrival disrupts the social order of the village, exposing the inadequacies of the existing husbands.
  • The film is described as a mix of whimsy and mature themes, with frequent, bawdy talk of sex.
  • Reviewer Richard Lawson praises the performances of Colman and Skarsgard, as well as the film’s cinematography and production design.

Critical Analysis:
Not applicable.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Wicker” offers a unique take on the “fish-out-of-water” trope, using a fantastical scenario to explore modern relationship dynamics.
  • The film’s success hinges on the performances of its lead actors, particularly Olivia Colman and Alexander Skarsgard, who must sell the unconventional romance.
  • The review suggests the film is a thought-provoking commentary on equal partnership and the need for spouses to be mindful of each other’s needs.
  • Despite its whimsical nature, “Wicker” possesses a harder edge, reflecting the challenges and resistance to change in contemporary society.

Impact Analysis:
Not applicable.

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