The Wicker Man (1973)

Director:
Robin Hardy

Written by:
Anthony Shaffer



The Wicker Man, while not necessarily an atheistic film, is a film that every atheist should see. Beyond a well written and beautifully shot movie is an indictment of religion that manages to be critical while staying fairly objective.

The story revolves around Sergeant Howie (Edward Woodward), a British officer who travels to Summerisle to find a missing girl after receiving an anonymous letter. Howie discovers the town to be full of pagans who are unhelpful in finding the girl. As an upstanding Christian, he finds their beliefs to be heretical and outdated. His contempt for their culture only increases as he observes preparations for a traditional festival. As the film progresses, Sergeant Howie learns the history of the island, the reason they believe what they do, and the fate of the lost girl.

The film handles belief remarkably well. Neither Howie nor the pagans are caricatures of their religions. Instead, both views are shown in a realistic respect that offers understanding and even empathy.

Sergeant Howie is depicted as a moral man. He is a good officer with a great respect for the law. Despite everything that happens to him, he never wavers in his beliefs. He resists temptation both of will and flesh. Of particular note is a scene in which the innkeeper's daughter, Willow (Britt Ekland), sings and dances provocatively in the room next to Howie. The Christian finds himself overcome with lust, but he is repulsed by her sexual confidence and unashamed nature.


While a good man in general, Howie is pious and judgmental. He views Summerisle as a backwards place inhabited by foolish heretics. He does not understand their traditions and does not care to. He knows that his lord is the only truth.

Upon meeting Lord Summerisle (Christopher Lee), the Sergeant learns the roots of the island's paganism. Summerisle explains the necessity of their belief system. It is a means not to control the people, but to encourage them and offer hope. It also provides a way to handle the hardships that would otherwise cripple them. In an expertly crafted dialog, Lord Summerisle expresses his own disbelief, his appreciation for the good belief can do, and an acknowledgment of its potential harm.

The film strikes a balance that is rarely seen. Religion is depicted in a realistic and critical light, but the filmmakers at no point go out of their way to villanize one side or another. It offers a respectful understanding of belief that does not go too far to lend deference.

The Wicker Man has a meticulous and brilliant approach to religious subject matter. The film succeeds not only in this respect, but in all. The photography and music are hauntingly good, and the acting is top notch. This film should be highly recommended to film lovers and mandatory for atheists.