Alexander Skarsgård stars in the new fantasy romantic comedy Wicker, a film based on Ursula Wills-Jones's short story The Wicker Husband. Alongside Olivia Colman and Peter Dinklage, Skarsgård portrays a literal woven creation in a production that has already secured a 91% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
An Echo of 'The Shape of Water' and 'Edward Scissorhands'
Wicker follows a tradition of dark, whimsical fables that pair social outcasts in surreal environments. As reported by the source, the film draws heavy inspiration from Guillermo del Toro’s The Shape of Water, focusing on a lonely world where misfits find connection.
The film's narrative explores the bond between two outsiders in an "ugly and lonely world." Much like the themes found in Edward Scissorhands, the story centers on the connection between a social outcast and an otherworldlly partner who exists outside the norms of society.
Wētā Workshop's Woven-Plated Prosthetics
The visual centerpiece of the film is the full-body wicker outfit worn by Alexander Skarsgård. According to the report, New Zealand's Wētā Workshop crafted the prosthetic suit, which was then enhanced with CGI to create the illusion that the character is hollow.
Skarsgård's performance is notable for its ability to convey emotion despite the heavy makeup.. Reviewers have highlighted how the actor manages to emote through a full face of prosthetics,even during surreal scenes that range from domestic tasks to breaking furniture. the production's commitment to physical effects is evident in the surreal scenes where the character helps The Fisherwoman maintain her home.
The Sharp Social Commentary of the Fisherwoman's World
Beyond the visual spectacle, Wicker uses its absurd premise to critique societal norms. The film features visual metaphors such as married women wearing literal collars and chaaracters whose identities are tied strictly to their professions or spouses.
Olivia Colman plays The Fisherwoman, a character who is ridiculed for being "smelly and single" before finding agency in her own love life.. The film portrays her journey as one of taking control in a world that often defines women by their husbands.
Will the Bawdy Humor Alienate Critics Like Benjamin Lee?
While the 91% Rotten Tomatoes score suggests widespread acclaim, questions remain about the film's tonal consistency. Specifically, will the blend of "raunchy" comedy and "achingly romantic" fantasy resonate with audiences,or will it suffer the same criticism as The Guardian's Benjamin Lee, who felt the elements did not blend well?
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