Set in the same universe as the 1973 cult classic The Wicker Man starring Christopher Lee and Edward Woodward, the film is written and directed by the original helmer, Robin Hardy, who also reunited with the original producer Peter Snell and venerable UK production company British Lion to bring a new vision of this classic story to 21st century audiences, after a theatrical run.
Based on Hardys acclaimed 2006 novel Cowboys for Christ, The Wicker Tree tells the story of Texas-based singer Beth Boothby (newcomer Brittania Nicol) and her friend Steve Thomson (Henry Garrett), two born-again Christians who come to Scotland to spread the gospel. When their initial efforts are met with disdain and disinterest, they find comfort in an invitation to sing in Tressock, the border fiefdom owned by Sir Lachlan Morrison (Graham McTavish, Rambo, the upcoming The Hobbit films).
However, Beths and Steves message of personal chastity quickly comes into direct conflict with Tressocks sexual and religious practices, drawing upon ancient Celtic beliefs and rituals. Temptations begin to challenge Beth and Steve with the stakes no less than their very lives and souls…
Lee, who played the mysterious Lord Summerisle in the original (in a career that includes Count Dracula and the Frankenstein monster in the classic Hammer films, Count Dooku in Star Wars Episodes II & III, and Saruman in the Lord of the Rings trilogy as well as the upcoming pair of films based on The Hobbit), returns again in a dramatic cameo. Rounding out the cast are Jacqueline Leonard (Holby City, The Bill) as Lady Delia Morrison, Clive Russell (Sherlock Holmes, The 13th Warrior) as Beame, James Mapes (Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country, Conversations with God) as Reverend Moriarty and Honeysuckle Weeks (Foyles War and numerous other UK TV projects) as Lolly.
Bonus features on The Wicker Tree Blu-ray and DVD include a behind-the-scenes featurette, deleted scenes and the theatrical trailer.
