Academy Award-winning actress Olivia Colman admitted she was completely unprepared for the internet storm surrounding her unconventional new romantic comedy, Wicker. Speaking at the BFI London Film Festival premiere, Colman addressed the deluge of viral memes and playful jokes that have flooded social media ahead of the film’s theatrical release.
The film, widely dubbed one of the most unusual romantic comedies in recent years, features Colman as a lonely fisherwoman living in a medieval village who faces ongoing ridicule for being unmarried. Desperate for a companion, she commissions a local basketmaker-played by Peter Dinklage-to construct a life-sized partner entirely out of wicker. Alexander Skarsgård portrays the unconventional, dashing wicker husband, who emerges as a devoted partner and passionate lover, ultimately sparking jealousy among other villagers.
When asked about the intense online fascination and steamy humor generated by the trailer, Colman confessed that the response was entirely unprecedented in her decades-long career.
"No, literally this has never happened for anything I’ve done before," Colman told reporters. "But you put Alexander Skarsgård in an interesting outfit, and everyone is looking."
An Online Phenomenon and Corporate Nods
Since the initial trailer dropped, Wicker has captured the imagination of online communities, particularly among BookTok and FilmTok fans swooning over Skarsgård’s wooden alter-ego. Discussions across social media have ranged from playful warnings about fictional splinter risks to genuine anticipation for the film’s unique blend of fantasy and comedy.
The online momentum even caught the attention of major global brands. Swedish furniture giant IKEA joined the viral conversation by posting images of its own rattan furniture on Instagram alongside the caption “husband material.”
Reflecting on why the premise has resonated so strongly with audiences, Colman pointed to a collective desire for lighthearted escapism.
"We all love a little bit of escapism. That’s what film is beautiful for," she said. "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?"
Colman added that it was the absolute originality of the script-adapted from Ursula Wills-Jones’ short story The Wicker Husband-that initially drew her to the project. "You get a lot of scripts through the post, and you feel like you’ve seen a bit before. And this, I really hadn’t seen this before, so I was excited."
Deeper Themes Beneath the Memes
Co-star Elizabeth Debicki, who plays the tailor’s wife in the film alongside an A-list ensemble that includes Richard E Grant, agrees that Skarsgård’s striking costume and commitment to the role played a massive part in setting the internet ablaze.
"I think it was a lot to do with Alex in a wicker man costume, really," Debicki noted. "I think that’s something that apparently everybody would like to see."
However, the cast emphasizes that beyond the internet humor and viral rattan jokes, the film tackles substantive themes with a delicate touch. Skarsgård noted that the story explores societal structures and hierarchies, while Debicki highlighted its moving and strange nature.
"It’s about love, and it is funny, but it’s also a romance, and it very gently laughs at the sort of traditions we have in marriage and community," Colman concluded. "I think it’s something that you will come out and discuss a lot."
Wicker is scheduled to arrive in UK cinemas on October 30.
