Olivia Colman and Alexander Skarsgård have opened up about their new steamy folk-horror movie Wicker, an earthy adult fairytale that has already sparked curiosity among film fans. In a candid interview, the two actors discussed their roles in the film, which is set in a medieval village and features a cast of British comic actors.
Colman, known for her Oscar-winning performance in The Favourite, plays the Fisherwoman, a character ridiculed by other villagers for her smell and lack of allure. Skarsgård, fresh from his role in last year's indie hit Pillion, appears alongside her in what promises to be a unique and provocative film.
What Is Wicker About?
Wicker is described as an earthy adult fairytale filmed in Budapest. It is set in a medieval village populated almost exclusively by British comic actors who converse in language both archaically formal and bluntly colloquial. The film explores themes of mockery and patriarchal conventions, with Colman's character at the center of the villagers' ridicule.
The movie features a supporting cast including Phil Daniels as a leering butcher and Richard E Grant as a doctor who is even more inept at his job than Grant was as a Celebrity Traitor. The script, according to Colman, was one that immediately caught her attention.
The Stars' Reactions to the Script
Colman recalled her initial reaction to the script with her characteristic enthusiasm: "I saw the script and went: oooh!" Her excitement is palpable, and she also expressed her love for Skarsgård's previous film, Pillion, in which he played a leather-clad dom. "I fucking loved Pillion so much!" she exclaimed, before joking about the kissing scene at the end.

Skarsgård, wearing a bright orange "I'm With Stupid" T-shirt during the interview, seemed appreciative of Colman's praise. The two actors share a camaraderie that likely translates well on screen, making Wicker a highly anticipated release.
Why Wicker Matters in the Folk-Horror Genre
Folk horror has seen a resurgence in recent years, with films like Midsommar and The Witch captivating audiences. Wicker appears to be a fresh take on the genre, blending horror with comedy and adult themes. The film's setting in a medieval village and its use of archaic language add to its atmospheric tension.
Moreover, the film's exploration of societal norms and the ridicule of the outsider resonates with contemporary issues. Colman's Fisherwoman, mocked for her appearance and smell, becomes a symbol of resistance against patriarchal conventions. This thematic depth, combined with the star power of Colman and Skarsgård, positions Wicker as a noteworthy entry in the folk-horror canon.
Key Takeaways from the Interview
- Olivia Colman was immediately drawn to the script, exclaiming "oooh!" upon reading it.
- Alexander Skarsgård stars alongside Colman, following his role in the indie hit Pillion.
- The film is set in a medieval village and features a cast of British comic actors.
- Colman plays the Fisherwoman, a character ridiculed by villagers for her appearance and smell.
- Wicker blends folk horror with adult fairytale elements and explores patriarchal conventions.
Cast and Characters
| Actor | Character | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Olivia Colman | The Fisherwoman | Ridiculed by villagers for her pong and lack of allure |
| Alexander Skarsgård | Unknown | Role details not specified |
| Phil Daniels | Leering butcher | Supporting role |
| Richard E Grant | Inept doctor | Compared to his Celebrity Traitor persona |
The cast is rounded out by a host of British comic talent, ensuring that Wicker will be as humorous as it is horrifying. The background to this story is set out in Wicker Review: Olivia Colman Shines in Folk-Horror Romance. A related thread runs through Justin Hardy Dies at 61: Wicker Man Sequel Director Passes.
What to Watch Next
As Wicker prepares for release, fans can look forward to more details about the plot and characters. The film's unique blend of horror and comedy, coupled with the chemistry between Colman and Skarsgård, makes it one to watch. For those interested in the intersection of celebrity and film, similar analyses of star performances can be found in our coverage of Emily Wilson's critique of Nolan's Odyssey script, which highlights the importance of strong writing in cinema. Earlier coverage in Olivia Colman Jimpa Interview Trans Rights Family Drama shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Best Films of Autumn 2026: Tom Cruise, Olivia Colman and Rocky Return.
Additionally, the themes of justice and morality in film are explored in our Matilda film review, offering a contrast to the darker tones of folk horror. As Wicker demonstrates, film continues to be a powerful medium for social commentary. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Sam Neill Interview 2024: Charm, Cancer, and Candid Truths. The same theme surfaces in Irvine Welsh on Sobriety, Aging, and His New Novel: A Candid Story, which takes a different angle.

FAQ
What is Wicker about?
Wicker is a folk-horror film set in a medieval village, focusing on a Fisherwoman ridiculed by villagers. It blends adult fairytale elements with dark comedy.
Who stars in Wicker?
Olivia Colman and Alexander Skarsgård lead the cast, with supporting roles from Phil Daniels and Richard E Grant.
When will Wicker be released?
A release date has not been announced yet. Keep an eye on official channels for updates.
What genre is Wicker?
It is described as an earthy adult fairytale with folk-horror elements, combining horror and comedy.