Saw the world premiere of The Wicker Tree @ Fantasia Film Fest 2011 in Montreal with Robin Hardy in attendance (he actually sat about 6 seats away). I have not seen The Wicker Man and therefore did not know what to expect other than some paganism. Just before the movie started Hardy gave a little primer on the movie and ended by saying "It's OK to laugh!", which was the last thing I expected. Once the movie started I realized why he mentioned this, the movie is rife with black humour and tongue-in- cheek lines about Christianity and more specifically the ignorance of "born again" Christians. There was still some much welcomed blood, sex and general weirdness which, coupled with the constant dark humour, made for a surprisingly (to me) great movie experience. You definitely do not have to have seen The Wicker Man to enjoy this movie. All around great acting, great story, great directing and a great no-loose-ends finish. Definitely recommend this to both Wicker Man fans and newcomers alike.
8/10
8/10