Wicker (2026) review: is it worth watching

Wicker is a 2026 fantasy romance directed by Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson, starring Alexander Skarsgård, Olivia Colman and Richard E. Grant. It's a 105-minute comedy-drama that has nothing to do with the 1973 cult horror classic or its 2006 remake—this is its own thing entirely, and critics are digging it.

What critics are saying

The film lands at a solid 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, with a 70 on Metacritic and 7.4 on IMDb (376 votes so far). Reviewers are calling it "quirky" and "wickedly funny," with praise across the board for the chemistry between Colman and Skarsgård. The consensus is that this is a fantasy romance that knows exactly what it is and leans hard into the weirdness without apology.

Watch it: Olivia Colman: The Inexplicable Inferiority on Amazon (Colman fans will want to dive deeper into the career of this quirky, charming actress who carries Wicker)

What works

Skarsgård and Colman carry the film with charm and comedic timing. The premise—a fantasy romance that doesn't play by normal rules—gives the story room to be strange and fun without excuses. Critics appreciated that the film embraces its oddball tone instead of trying to be something it's not. The costume design earned specific praise from reviewers. The whole thing feels like a movie that trusts its own weirdness.

Who this is for

If you like romantic comedies that swing for the fences, fantasy stories that don't take themselves too seriously, or anything with Olivia Colman doing her thing, this lands in your wheelhouse. It's the kind of movie that knows what it is and leans into it.

Where to watch

Check your usual streaming services or ask your local theater what's still playing. At 105 minutes, it's a solid night out or a solid night in.

The bottom line

Critics and early audiences are on the same page here: Wicker is a fun, weird, sexy little romance that doesn't apologize for being strange. It's not trying to be a masterpiece, and that's exactly why it works. If you've got the time and you're in the mood for something that'll make you laugh and maybe blush a little, it's worth your time.

Quick answers

Is this related to The Wicker Man?

No. Despite the name, this 2026 film is an original comedy-romance with no connection to the 1973 horror classic or the 2006 remake. It just happens to share a title.

What's the tone?

Quirky, funny, sexy and offbeat. Critics describe it as a fantasy romance that doesn't play by the rules and knows how to laugh at itself.

Do the leads have chemistry?

Yes. Skarsgård and Colman are praised for their charm and comedic timing, which reviewers say carries the film.

Is it worth a theater trip or a stream at home?

Either way works. At 105 minutes, it's a solid watch whether you catch it on the big screen or at home.