The Wicker Tree

In 1973, Robin Hardy's The Wicker Man—an eerie horror film revolving around pagan religious practices and the power of belief—opened to mediocre reviews, but went on to ultimately achieve cult classic status. Hardy's satirical yet highly suspenseful sequel begins at Cowboys for Christ Church in East Texas as Reverend Moriarty (James Mapes) sends two born again missionaries off to convert the heathen in Scotland. Gospel-belting former pop-star Beth (Brittania Nicol) and her guileless fiancé Steve (Henry Garrett) proudly wear silver purity rings, but their earnest, evangelical righteousness is soon tested in the quaint, picturesque village of Tressock. The pair are befriended by sinister Sir Lachlan Morrison (Graham McTavish) and his wife Delia (Jacqueline Leonard), who—playing on the couple's innocence—encourage them to become May Queen and heroic, horseback-riding Laddie in the town's annual, symbolic spring celebration, much to the dismay of Lolly (Honeysuckle Weeks), a conscience-stricken temptress who is all-too-familiar with the carnal, sacrificial “power of the blood” rituals that lie ahead. The Wicker Tree also features a musical component involving traditional Scottish ballads and Robert Burns's lyrics (mixed with gospel and country rock), as well as glimpses of the Beltane Fire Society: amateur pagan enthusiasts, who stage an annual erotic festival in Scotland. Original Wicker Man star Christopher Lee also makes an eerie cameo in this wildly wicked fantasy/horror/black comedy hybrid that pits Christianity against ancient Celtic traditions. Full disclosure: James Mapes, who plays the Pentecostal preacher, is my husband. Recommended. [Note: DVD extras include a “making-of” featurette (13 min.), deleted scenes (12 min.), and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a campy sort-of sequel to the cult classic.] (S. Granger)