Sergeant Howie (Edward Woodward) arrives on the small Scottish island of Summerisle to investigate the report of a missing child. A conservative Christian, the policeman observes the residents’ frivolous sexual displays and strange pagan rituals, particularly the temptations of Willow (Britt Ekland), daughter of the island magistrate, Lord Summerisle (Christopher Lee). The more Sergeant Howie learns about the islanders’ strange practices, the closer he gets to tracking down the missing child.
The last in the triumvirate of films that helped define the genre. The other two are: Witchfinder General (1968) and The Blood on Satan’s Claw (1971).
I went to see the 50th anniversary version at a local cinema recently too, and it turned out that one of the girls in the cast - now in her 60s, clearly, - was a friend of the cinema manager, so she recounted a few memories that she had of the filming. She was only an extra and featured primarily in procession towards the end, but evidently a scene with her and some of the other girls riding ponies was shot, but never made it to the screen. Apparently that was intended to be near the start of the film. Really interesting to meet her, anyway.
Oh that sounds great. Like your own special feature.
I feel this is almost a one of a kind movie. Nothing I’ve watched, with a similar folklore tune to it, is anywhere near how good this movie is.
For a few moments, we are right there on Summerisle, the place feels familiar, the people there aren’t strangers.
I still listen to the soundtrack regularly. Loving Couples / The ruined Church is an unforgettable masterpiece.
Yeah, I watched Midsommar and it just felt like a pale imitation.
Availability:
As it’s the 50th anniversary there are some nice releases:
- Studiocanal 4k Collector’s Edition - up for pre-order at £60
- Studiocanal 4k steelbook - you for pre-order at £40
- Imprint 2k limited edition - out-of-print and going for £125+
- Arrow 2k steelbook (Zavvi exclusive) - out-of-print but only about £15 on eBay
