Review: Children of the Wicker Man

9 December, 2024 William Eguizabal 0 Comments 4 categories

Title: Children of the Wicker Man
MPA Rating: Not Yet Rated
Director: Justin Hardy
Starring: Tim Plester
Runtime: 1 hr 32 mins

What It Is: In 1973, Robin Hardy directed a small independent horror film that would later be titled The Wicker Man. The film—and its unnecessary remake—went on to become a cult classic. But few know the lasting impact the film had on Hardy himself, or about the project he abandoned afterward.

Told through the eyes of his son, Justin, this documentary explores the man behind the legendary horror film—a story the audience has never had the privilege of knowing.

What We Think: Where the film truly shines is in the moments when Justin learns more about the man his father was. These scenes feel intimate and deeply moving. Things become even more compelling when his half-brother, Dominic, enters the picture. The two brothers bring different experiences and perspectives on their father, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

At its core, that’s what makes this documentary so captivating. While the film-related aspects are thrilling for a movie nerd like me, I’m equally drawn to its exploration of family dynamics. It’s a beautifully crafted reflection on family, film, and the lasting impact both can have on a childhood.

Our Grade: C+, This is a feature-length documentary, though it somewhat feels like a bonus feature for a future Blu-ray re-release of the original 1973 film. I’m very interested to see where it goes next because, frankly, it’s a very well-made documentary. Currently, it doesn’t have a release date, but below you’ll find where you can watch Robin Hardy’s cinematic legacy.

If you’re a fan of this cult classic, this documentary is right up your alley. Documentaries of this nature are a staple of Fantastic Fest—there’s almost always one on the festival’s schedule each year. As a standalone film, it struggles a bit, but it’s such an intriguing watch that it’s bound to find its place.