Columbus audiences fill seats for quirky romance film Wicker

Movie theaters across Columbus have seen a surge in attendance for Wicker, a new romantic comedy starring Olivia Colman and Alexander Skarsgård. The film tells the story of a fisherwoman who falls in love with a man made of wicker. Local ticket sales have increased as social media buzz spreads about the movie’s unique concept.

The plot centers on Colman’s character, a woman living in a village where Skarsgård plays a wicker figure. The character attracts attention from women in the village as well as those in the audience. Online discussions have generated jokes about household items and laundry bins, which has further fueled curiosity and interest in seeing the film.

Kirsty Blake Knox, a features journalist and columnist for The Irish Independent, discussed her experience watching the movie. She initially expected a horror film based on the title, recalling that she thought it might be a remake of The Wicker Man. She explained that she was surprised to learn it was a romance involving a basket played by Skarsgård.

Knox noted that the film’s sex scenes are distinct because they are humorous rather than intense. She said, "Sex scenes can be quite divisive.. A lot of people hate them.. because we've all had that experience of one popping up in a film.. and feeling very uncomfortable and awkward." She argued that the movie avoids common clichés like burning candles or gripping sheets, which often make such scenes feel tired.

One specific scene features the characters in a moment of passion when Colman’s character spots a hole in the roof. She asks if it can be fixed, and after he agrees, they resume. Knox described this interaction as adding a levity that makes the film more enjoyable. She added, "It just adds a humour to it that makes it a lot more enjoyable and funny and kind of giddy to watch."

Knox also mentioned that she watched the film with her mother, a decision she was initially hesitant about. She reported that they both enjoyed the experience without any discomfort. The film is currently showing in cinemas across Ireland, with audiences reporting that the word of mouth has been a key driver of box office performance.

The movie has drawn mixed but largely positive reactions for its comedic approach to romance. The film’s success has prompted more viewers to seek out screenings, creating a steady stream of new ticket buyers who are curious about the wicker man storyline.