Nato – The Wicker Tree
If we’re talking cult classic horror movies, the 1973 version of The Wicker Man has to be mentioned. Crazy concept, evil cultists, brilliantly brainwashing performances, it’s all there. Then, Neil LaBute remade the film with Nic Cage, and a good laugh was had by all. Cage punching women dressed as a bear? Nothing but a hilarious moment of cinematic glory/failure, but we’re not even here to talk about that clusterf%ck.
Just this year, director Robin Hardy released an indirect sequel titled The Wicker Tree to his original film, based off the book written by original author Robin Hardy. Yes, the author of the novel tried to cash in on his own novel/original release.
At least LaBute’s had comedic moments and epic Cage material which was later cut together for one amazing gag reel. The Wicker Tree had none of this, and was all around just a poorly sutured slow burn cult mentality horror with zero entertainment value.
The film overall possess a fake and empty feeling throughout, seeming more like a bad theater rendition instead of a true Hollywood film. Both lead roles are hammed up by two lifeless characters with absolutely no on-screen chemistry, again feeling like two people were just thrust in front of a camera and everyone hoped for the best. Not even the evil cultists could muster any personas to really fear, being like wax figures against a background of suckage. Not to mention the story was rather rushed and pointless, only aiding to the lack of development and cohesion, making The Wicker Tree an immediate franchise killer which was in dire need of some Nicolas Cage inspired terribleness.
Like I said, at least when he tanks, it’s freakin’ hilarious.
The Wicker Tree, on the other hand, was just abysmally sad.
