The fantasy romantic comedy Wicker, starring Academy Award winner Olivia Colman and Alexander Skarsgård, is heading to theaters following its successful premiere at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. Distributed by Black Bear, the film will have a limited release on October 23, 2026, followed by a wider expansion on October 30.
A Unique Fable of Love and Social Convention
Based on the short story The Wicker Husband by Ursula Wills-Jones, the film examines themes of love, isolation, and societal pressure in a medieval village. The story follows an ostracized fisherwoman (Colman), who commissions a local basketmaker (Peter Dinklage) to craft a husband made of wicker.
The narrative shifts when the creation, brought to life by Skarsgård, proves to be a profound companion. Their romance sparks jealousy among the villagers, challenging the local social order and forcing the protagonist to face the consequences of her unconventional choice.
An All-Star Cast and Creative Vision
Directed by the husband-and-wife duo Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson, the film features an ensemble cast including Elizabeth Debicki, Marli Siu, and Nabhaan Rizwan. The production has received praise for its visual design, notably the intricate costumes from Weta Workshop used to bring the titular character to life.
Production and Critical Reception
Wicker has earned positive attention, currently holding a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on early festival reviews. During the Sundance Film Festival, Colman noted her connection to the project, stating, “I think it’s in my top three favorite scripts I’ve ever read.”
Financed by Tango and Topic Studios, the film’s production team includes Colman, Ed Sinclair, Tom Carver, and David Michôd. The collaboration aims to bring this “audacious comedic fable” to a broad audience, positioning it as one of the year’s most original films.
Connecting The Crown Alumni
For fans of the Netflix series The Crown, the film offers a rare chance to see Olivia Colman and Elizabeth Debicki share the screen. While both actresses portrayed members of the British Royal Family-Colman as Queen Elizabeth II and Debicki as Princess Diana-they never appeared in the same season. Wicker marks their first on-screen collaboration.
As the October release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for this bold, darkly funny, and tender exploration of the human condition.
