The Wicker Man

Robin Hardy’s cult-classic horror film, considered a masterpiece of the genre in many circles, gets a poor update in this thriller from director Neil LaBute. A rather gaunt Nicolas Cage plays Edward Malus, a policeman who is called to the mysterious island of Summersisle by his former fiancé to locate the woman’s missing daughter. Of course, things turn creepy fairly quickly, and Malus soon discovers that the island’s inhabitants have established themselves as a matriarchal society of pagans who routinely hold ritual sacrifices. Where the film fails is in its direction, and LaBute proves that he knows little about making a horror film and should probably stick with character dramas. Audiences might find themselves yelling at the screen at various points—not because of any sudden danger that might be descending upon Malus, but rather because of the utterly ridiculous situations in which he finds himself. Even if the brilliant original did not exist for us to make a comparison, this film would still have little to offer. Unfortunately for LaBute, we can make the comparison.

Directed by Neil LaBute.
Written by Neil LaBute.
Starring Nicolas Cage, Ellen Burstyn, Kate Beahan, Frances Conroy, Molly Parker and Leelee Sobieski.

Rated PG-13 for disturbing images and violence, language and thematic issues. 102 min.

** so says The Fish