Halloween Post #2: Hot Stuff

Okay, so it may be more of a May Day film but The Wicker Man, with its Pagan rituals and horrific denouement, is an ideal choice for Halloween viewing. When I saw it many years ago on TV I don't remember being all that impressed by it - with exception of the scenes where a naked Britt Ekland dances seductively around her bedroom and those of the Wicker Man itself. However, I've just been watching the restored Director's Cut version on DVD and I've got to say that I now like it a lot.


Police sergeant Howie (Edward Woodward) travels to a remote Scottish Island to investigate the disappearance of a young girl. Being a devout Christian, Howie is shocked by what he discovers amongst the Pagan community, led by Lord Summerisle (Christopher Lee).


The 15 minutes of restored footage, missing from the theatrical version, adds much to the back story of Howie and emphasises his strong religious beliefs. Also present is an important scene where Lord Summerisle presents a young man to Willow (Britt Ekland) for sexual initiation. There's more creepy folk singing and Willow's enticing song and dance is expanded.

The UK 2 disc release includes both the Director's and the theatrical cuts, a 35 minute documentary and an informative commentary by Director Robin Hardy, Edward Woodward and Christopher Lee. It's well worth the bargain £2.99 I paid for it in the Virgin sale. Even if you don't like the film there's always some beautiful Scottish scenery to look at.