Elizabeth Debicki Says She ‘Went Bright Red’ When She Saw Alexander Skarsgård in Full-Frontal “Wicker” Costume for the First Time

In a recent conversation with Variety, actress Elizabeth Debicki shared her hilarious and unexpected first encounter with Alexander Skarsgård while filming the new romantic comedy, Wicker. Set against the whimsical backdrop of Budapest, Debicki recalled the moment she stumbled upon her co-star in a rather revealing costume, stating, “I went bright red because my brain couldn’t compute what it was seeing.” The occasion was a surreal introduction to Skarsgård, who appears in the film as a man made entirely of wicker, prompting Debicki to joke about the bizarre nature of their meet-up.

Wicker, which features a star-studded cast including Olivia Colman and Peter Dinklage, tells the story of an ostracised fisherwoman, played by Colman, whose life takes an unexpected turn when a local basket weaver crafts a wicker husband for her, portrayed by Skarsgård. The film delves into the complexities of relationships as the unique character threatens to overshadow the traditional husbands in their village, leading to jealousy and discord.

Skarsgård’s unconventional costume proved to be a highlight on set. Debicki was not alone in her astonishment; Colman, who plays a pivotal role in the story, also experienced a sense of exhilaration upon seeing Skarsgård in character for the first time. After months spent viewing images of the wicker man, the reality of his presence was a source of relief and excitement for Colman. “It was amazing to see it in the flesh. That feeling of, ‘Oh my god, it’s going to work!’” she shared.

The anticipation surrounding Skarsgård’s debut in the costume was not without its nerves. The intricate prosthetic design was intended to capture his likeness, and the creative team was acutely aware of the potential pitfalls. Skarsgård described the pressure involved, noting, “If it doesn’t quite work, it looks like a horror film.” Thankfully, the transformation resonated well with both the team and the actors, alleviating Skarsgård’s concerns about how audiences would react.

Debicki and Colman were among the first to witness the success of the elaborate costume. Skarsgård remembered stepping out of his trailer to see Colman’s enthusiastic response, which he called an “incredible day.” The costume’s ability to move naturally with him played a significant role in helping him embrace the physicality of his unique character. He remarked, “It’s even better than we imagined.”

While the film has garnered attention for its audacious promotional strategies, including suggestive merchandise like a popcorn bucket modelled after Skarsgård’s wicker torso, both Skarsgård and Debicki emphasised that Wicker is more than just a light-hearted comedy. Skarsgård urged viewers to appreciate the film’s deeper narrative, which he described as a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Debicki echoed his sentiments, discussing how the film thoughtfully explores themes of love and marriage. “It’s such a beautiful examination of the idea that loving someone is really looking in a mirror of yourself,” she elaborated. This reflective approach adds a layer of depth to the otherwise whimsical premise, inviting the audience to engage with the characters on a more substantial level.

As the film continues to screen in theatres, it aims to balance a humorous premise with poignant commentary on relationships and societal expectations, particularly regarding women. Wicker challenges traditional rom-com conventions, promising viewers a unique experience that straddles the line between comedy and thoughtful exploration.

The film’s release has sparked a mixture of amusement and intrigue, compelling audiences to reconsider standard romantic narratives. With its unconventional cast and playful premise, Wicker is set to leave a lasting impression, making it a notable feature in contemporary cinema. As the promotional campaign unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate the blend of humour and insight that Debicki, Colman, and Skarsgård have brought to this unusual yet enticing story.