Olivia Colman's new movie, 'Wicker,' has ignited a mix of curiosity and bewilderment among audiences due to its peculiar premise. The film portrays Colman as an isolated fisherwoman whose persistent fishy scent complicates her romantic pursuits. In a desperate bid for companionship, she commissions a local artisan, depicted by Peter Dinklage, to construct a husband from woven reeds. This creation, embodied by Alexander Skarsgård, surprisingly comes to life, stirring intense envy among the women in their community and threatening to disrupt societal norms.
The debut trailer for the film, described as 'lewd, lustful, yet surprisingly tender,' immediately captured attention with its explicit sequences involving Colman and Skarsgård. While Colman is acclaimed for her roles in period dramas, her intimate scenes with the wicker figure presented a novel challenge. The narrative quickly immerses viewers in a passionate encounter before reverting to the fisherwoman's past, revealing the ridicule she faced for her solitary existence. The ensuing story highlights Peter Dinklage's character meticulously crafting the wicker husband over a month, culminating in a chapel wedding. Another provocative scene depicts Olivia undressing her wicker spouse, marveling at his virility before being enveloped in an ardent embrace. Villagers, including seasoned actors Phil Daniels, Richard E. Grant, and Elizabeth Debicki, become engrossed in the couple's relationship, with men wishing to expel the wicker man and women desiring him.
The cast and crew have openly discussed the unusual romantic undertones of the film, which is inspired by Ursula Wills' short story, 'The Wicker Husband.' Elizabeth Debicki noted her character's transformation upon witnessing the fisherwoman's bold choices, stating it completely unravels her own suppressed unhappiness. Peter Dinklage emphasized his character's affinity for the fisherwoman, viewing her as an kindred spirit. Olivia Colman herself expressed immense enthusiasm for the project, hailing it as one of the best scripts she has encountered. 'Wicker' has garnered critical acclaim, achieving a 91 percent 'fresh' rating on Rotten Tomatoes following its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, further underscoring the growing popularity of 'monster romance' narratives among younger audiences, often explored through online platforms like Goodreads and TikTok.
This surge in fantasy romance, particularly 'monster books,' has been attributed to its escapist appeal, especially among Gen Z and millennial women. These stories, which often feature mythical creatures and delve into complex emotional landscapes, provide a unique avenue for readers to confront and process anxieties in a tumultuous world, as suggested by literary experts. By personifying threats and challenges into fantastical 'monsters,' these narratives offer a sense of control and catharsis, allowing readers to navigate intricate realities within imaginative constructs. 'Wicker' is slated for release on October 23 in the United States and October 30 in the United Kingdom.