Alexander Skarsgård Transforms into Alluring Strawman in ‘Wicker’
“Wicker” is a unique film that tells the story of a lonely woman who falls in love with a man made entirely of straw. Directed by Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson, the film avoids CGI in favor of a physical costume to portray its alluring strawman, played by Alexander Skarsgård. This creative decision aims to enhance the emotional depth of the story.
The Film’s Inspiration and Cast
Set in a whimsical world, the film stars Olivia Colman as the lonely protagonist. Peter Dinklage plays a basket weaver who crafts her straw husband. Elizabeth Debicki also features prominently, emphasizing the film’s unique fairy tale elements.
Realism in Storytelling
Fischer explained that using CGI would create a disconnect in the love story. “It wouldn’t be real,” he noted, emphasizing authenticity in the film’s representation of emotions. To achieve this, Fischer and Wilson collaborated with Weta Workshop to create a tailored suit and makeup for Skarsgård. The suit was designed to reflect his facial expressions, even capturing subtle details like a furrowed brow.
Behind-the-Scenes Collaboration
During a private rehearsal, Skarsgård showcased his skills while wearing the wicker man outfit. “There was no footage, but it was wonderful,” Wilson recalled of the intimate session. This experiential approach helped Colman immerse herself in her role. “When you’re face to face with the most beautiful creature made of wicker, it’s easy to swoon,” she remarked with humor.
Exploring Themes of Patriarchy
Debicki expressed her attraction to “Wicker” due to its darker fairy tale narrative that scrutinizes the effects of patriarchy on women. As Colman’s character faces jealousy from villagers over her happiness, the film delves into deeper sociocultural issues while harkening back to timeless fairy tales.
A Personal Connection to Fairy Tales
The actress shared her childhood fondness for classic tales, recalling her grandmother’s antique fairy tale books. “I loved them,” Debicki stated, highlighting how the film allowed her to reconnect with that cherished part of her youth.
The Future of Filmmaking
Reflecting on his experiences at the Sundance Film Festival, Dinklage commented on the current challenges in the film industry. He warned against discouragement among aspiring filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the art itself. “If we keep saying it’s hard out there, nothing will change,” he cautioned, advocating for creativity and innovation in storytelling.
In an industry rife with challenges, “Wicker” serves as both an artistic endeavor and a hopeful reminder of the power of storytelling. This film, set against the backdrop of Sundance, captures the essence of fairy tale magic intertwined with poignant social commentary.
