The Wicker Man has had a long and sordid history, from production to distribution. With the original elements thought to be long lost, it wasn't until about 10 years ago that they were discovered in a vault by Roger Corman. Wicker Man saw a successful revival run in the art house circuit but was still hard to find in a decent home video version, despite an intense cult following. Anchor Bay has stepped up to the plate and provided us with a brand spankin' new transfer, along with some pretty interesting extras, all worth a look.

The Wicker Man stars Edward Woodward (The Equalizer) as Sergeant Howie, an officer who travels to a remote Scottish Island to investigate an anonymous missing child report. Once he arrives, the Sergeant discovers things are not quite what they seem, and the town and its residents are harboring many secrets that they are not willing to reveal to any outsiders. Christopher Lee stars as Lord Summerisle, the Pagan religious leader of this very bizarre society. Sergeant Howie (a devout catholic) delves deeper and deeper into the bizarre practices of the Pagan society until ultimately, he comes face to face with The Wicker Man.

The Wicker Man is a hard film to categorize. Not a full blown horror film, it has elements of horror, melodrama, and at points could probably be considered a musical. The Wicker Man is guaranteed to be unlike any movie you have ever seen. Christopher Lee gives a knockout performance (would we expect any less from Mr. Lee) and look for Ingrid Pit (Vampire Lovers, Countess Dracula) in an unexpected role as a straight laced librarian. With a great script, excellent acting, competent directing and an incredible score, The Wicker Man seems to have it all. The film may not be for everyone with its experimental style, and scenes of frank sexual expression, but for the adventurous it's definitely worth a look.

Anchor Bay has done a fine job bringing The Wicker Man to DVD. There are 2 versions available, the theatrical version, and a 2 disc set with an extended version as well (in a cool wooden box). I'm reviewing the theatrical version, and I have to say the film looks fantastic. Colors are extremely vibrant and you'd be hard pressed to find any print damage aside from the occasional scratch (and I do mean occasional). Anchor Bay has truly done The Wicker Man justice with this release. Sound is Dolby Digital 5.1 and is also quite impressive. Surrounds are kept to a minimum, and used only when necessary, which is quite effective. Ambiant sounds are incredibly moody and add to the creepy atmosphere of the film. Dialogue is crisp and clear, and the score sounds incredible. We are also given the option of a 2.0 Dolby track as well.

Extras include a trailer and tv spot as well as radio spots. Also included are your standard bios and a cool 35 minute documentary, Wicker Man Enigma. The documentary includes interviews with the cast and crew of the film, with some fascinating anecdotes and real insights into the production and distribution of this forgotten classic (as well as some clips of the additional footage from the extended version). There is also a very cool 25 minute hidden feature, easter egg if you will. It's not too hard to find, and is definitely worth the effort, quite a nice touch.

Fans of The Wicker Man should have picked up either edition by now, if you haven't, what's wrong with you? First timers, may be thrown off by the experimental style and musical numbers. Keep an open mind, sit back and enjoy. This is truly a special film, and so haunting it will stick with you for quite some time after your viewing.