![The Wicker Man [Region 2]](./wickerman_files/image002.jpg)
The
Wicker Man [Region 2] (1975)
Edward
Woodward , Christopher
Lee , Robin
Hardy R DVD
A
Devastating View of Neo-Paganism, October 19, 2009
I don't believe the
makers of this film intended it to, but The Wickerman presents a horrific view
of Paganism, and Neo-Paganism in particular.
The plot is simple: The scene is an isolated Scotland on an island fairly far
off from the coastline. A religiously conservative detective (Edward Woodward)
is sent to investigate an annoymous tip that a young girl has disappeared from
the island. He finds himself in a small community that practices Paganism from
birth to death (they don't call it "death.") It is even taught in the
classroom, to the exclusion of all other religions. There are signs & symbols
of "The Craft" everywhere. The community is lead by the Lord of the
Manor, and played by veteran horror film actor, Christopher Lee. The detective
soon uncovers a sinister plot & finds himself its target.
The music is interesting with many songs related to various Wiccan practices.
It enhances the illusion that traditional Paganism was all joy & light, fun
& frolic. One of the more messmerizing scenes involves a beautiful, naked
young female devotee casting a seductive spell on Woodward. It is very erotic &
convincing.
There are many artistic examples of Pagan symbolsism & practives (the
Maypole is great.) My favorite scene is the one where Christopher Lee is
leading a procession dressed like The Goddess. All Christopher Lee fans (I'm
one) gotta see this!
I say the film presents a negative view, because it shows a certain callous
insensitivity to animals in general--and the detective in particular. It also
illustrates just how insular a community can become when it follows one
religion at the expense of others. The Children of Innocence & Light are
revealed to be much closer to cruelty & darkness.
Nonetheless, I really reccomend this movie to all people interested in history,
religion, sociology, and occultism.
I would NEVER pay the
discontinued going price of 69 BUCK$ for this film.
Children
of the Corn [Blu-ray]
Haxan (Witchcraft
Through the Ages) - Criterion Collection
Rosemary's
Baby
Review: JEFarrow
Updated 10/08
www.gnostics.com