In brief
The sons of late film director Robin Hardy have finally completed a vision that began with the 1973 cult classic The Wicker Man. An archive of six sacks of papers discovered in his attic supplied a full script for the missing third installment, Wrath of the Gods, which now premieres at London’s FrightFest. Filming took place in Shetland with local talent and stars from Game of Thrones and Norwegian cinema, weaving a new mythic narrative set on the island of Hel. The premiere punctuates a bittersweet tribute to the late director Justin Hardy, who passed away last month at age 61.
In a cinematic family saga the sons of late director Robin Hardy have brought to fruition his vision for a Wicker Man trilogy. The first instalment The Wicker Man ran out in 1973 and has become a cult classic, the second The Wicker Tree pushed the narrative further and the third Wrath of the Gods has just premiered.
After a mysterious discovery of six sacks of papers in Robin Hardy’s attic in 2023 the brothers Jonathan and Dominic unearthed a complete draft of the final film. The story revolves around a grieving widow who returns to the Shetland island of Hel and sets off a chain of supernatural events tied to Norse mythology.
Filming folded in Shetland in early 2025 and featured local talent as well as Game of Thrones star Francis Magee and Norwegian actress Christiane Schaldemose in the lead roles. The production included dramatic set pieces such as a long‑boat inspired by Viking lore and a towering wicker beacon that foreshadows the film’s climax.
While the premiere at London’s FrightFest is billed as a celebration of the franchise it is tinged with poignancy after the death of director Justin Hardy last month at 61. The film stands as both a tribute to his work and a homage to the enduring legacy of his father’s original creation.
The brothers have dedicated the film to their late mother Caroline, who secretly financed the 1973 original and passed away in 1984. Their story offers a rare glance into the personal toll and perseverance that can shape a cinematic icon over decades.
