Wicker Cast Sparks Viral Reaction Ahead of Film Release

Olivia Colman and Alexander Skarsgård's new fantasy romantic comedy Wicker has drawn major online attention before its cinema release, with audiences sharing memes and jokes about Skarsgård's unusual wicker husband character. The film premiered at the BFI London Film Festival and explores a lonely fisherwoman who creates an unconventional partner.

According to BBC reports, Wicker follows an ostracised fisherwoman in a medieval village who asks a basketmaker, played by Peter Dinklage, to create a husband made entirely from wicker. The cast also includes Elizabeth Debicki and Richard E Grant.

Colman said the social media reaction was unlike anything she had experienced in her career.

"No, literally this has never happened for anything I've done before," said Olivia Colman.

She added that Skarsgård's distinctive appearance as the wicker husband helped attract public interest.

"But you put Alexander Skarsgård in an interesting outfit, and everyone is looking," said Olivia Colman.

The actor explained that the film's appeal came from its unusual fantasy elements and its ability to offer an escape from everyday life.

"We all love a little bit of escapism. That's what film is beautiful for.

And it's magical, and a bit of fantasy, and people love that, especially currently. What's not to love about a little bit of escapism and fantasy?" said Olivia Colman.

Colman also said the originality of the script influenced her decision to join the project. She described the story as something she had not encountered before among the scripts she received.

Skarsgård said the costume design was central to the character's impact and discussed filming the romantic scenes.

"All I had to do was get stuck into it," said Alexander Skarsgård.

He described the intimate scenes as a mix of comedy and romance, noting that the production aimed to balance humor with emotional moments.

"But [the characters] also have tender moments and sexy moments, it was great," said Alexander Skarsgård.

Elizabeth Debicki said the film's online popularity was strongly connected to Skarsgård's transformation.

"I think it was a lot to do with Alex in a wicker man costume, really. I think that's something that apparently everybody would like to see," said Elizabeth Debicki.

Wicker is adapted from Ursula Wills-Jones' short story The Wicker Husband and received mixed reviews from critics after its festival appearances. The film is scheduled for release in UK cinemas on October 30.