Wicker: Colman’s bizarre wooden romcom is 2026’s weirdest film
Some films manage to transport us instantly, pulling us from the modern world into a realm where the rules feel both familiar and utterly fantastical. Wicker is one of those cinematic achievements. It doesn’t just tell a story; it wraps itself in the texture of a Grimms’ fairy tale, offering a delightfully anachronistic romp that sidesteps the heavy baggage of classic folk-horror in favor of something far more whimsical and deeply human.
The film sets a stage that smells wonderfully of a pre-industrial world. Through stunning costume and production design, the narrative immerses the viewer in a seemingly medieval English village, expertly realized by directors Eleanor Wilson and Alex Huston. The environment itself feels tangible, allowing us to breathe in the rich, rustic atmosphere of a bygone era.
At the heart of this rustic setting is the story of the Fisherwoman, played brilliantly by Olivia Colman. Happy as a singleton, she finds herself navigating village expectations, particularly the teasing about her bachelorette status. When she decides to change her trajectory, she commissions something extraordinary: a wicker man.
The arrival of this wooden companion introduces a delightful absurdity. The wicker man, crafted by Peter Dinklage, is not just an object; he is a presence. Played by Alexander Skarsgård, he proves to be a devoted and surprisingly sensitive lover, sparking a wonderfully bawdy and nudgingly humorous romance with the Fisherwoman. This dynamic delivers moments of pure, delightful absurdity, channeling the clever, cheeky spirit of a Monty Python sketch.
Despite the charming chaos, the film tackles themes of marriage and societal constraints with wit. The villagers, particularly Elizabeth Debicki as the Tailor’s Wife, react with a mixture of perturbation and bewildered acceptance to the walking, talking wooden figure. It is a testament to the film’s cleverness that, despite the pervasive superstition of the era, no one seems to bat an eyelid at this wonderfully weird development.
The central relationship between Colman and Skarsgård is undeniably electric, showcasing impressive physical chemistry. However, while the film excels in its quirky charm and fresh take on relationships, the momentum of the story occasionally falters. The narrative ultimately skates along on its inherent oddity, settling into a Pinocchio-esque fable that, while entertaining, does not reach the cinematic heights of its premise.
Ultimately, Wicker stands out as a vibrant, fresh piece of filmmaking. It’s a delightful, slightly absurd meditation on love and desire, proving that sometimes the most profound stories are found in the most wonderfully bizarre corners of history.
Director: Eleanor Wilson, Alex Huston
Starring: Olivia Colman, Peter Dinklage, Mikey Madison, Alexander Skarsgård
Release date: October 30 (in UK cinemas)
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