Alexander Skarsgård, the acclaimed actor known for his diverse roles, has recently garnered attention for his unique costume in the upcoming film “Wicker.” During a recent appearance on “The Graham Norton Show,” he surprised the host with a rather bizarre gift from his costume: a pair of fake wicker nipples. This unusual gesture was well received in a segment that showcased Skarsgård’s enthusiasm for his role and the artistry behind his outfit.
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The film “Wicker,” which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, features Skarsgård in a rather unconventional role as a husband made entirely of twigs. The character is inspired by Ursula Wills-Jones’ short story, “The Wicker Husband,” and has been brought to life through meticulous craftsmanship that took an impressive 18 months. According to reports, Skarsgård’s costume was created by the well-known special effects company, Wētā Workshop, which is celebrated for its innovative and artistic work in the film industry.
In discussing his costume, Skarsgård expressed that the suit was nothing short of exquisite. He highlighted the craftsmanship involved, stating that the most remarkable aspect of the suit were the nipples, which he described as “extraordinary.” During his time on stage, he cheekily noted, “every day when I was wearing them, putting them on, I was thinking of you, Graham,” as he handed over the prop in a black box, eliciting a shocked yet amused reaction from Norton.
The costume’s design closely aligns with the film’s themes and required a level of sophistication that made Skarsgård’s character not only visually appealing but also capable of conveying emotion. Joe Dunckley, the prosthetic makeup designer, explained that the creative process aimed to infuse the character with a sense of allure while maintaining functional aspects of expression. For this, the costume incorporated a range of elements that would allow Skarsgård to immerse himself fully in the role.
Dunckley further detailed a pioneering aspect of the film’s production, noting that the team created digital prosthetics without relying on a physical mould. This advanced method was pivotal for ensuring that the costume conveyed the desired aesthetic of wicker while allowing Skarsgård to perform effectively. The actor’s hair was another innovative feature of his costume, made from muka, a fibre derived from New Zealand flax, showcasing not only technical skill but also a commitment to using organic materials for authenticity.
Preparation for the role was extensive, and Skarsgård underwent fittings that reportedly took under two hours each day. Lead makeup effects artist Sarah Rubano praised Skarsgård for his professionalism and positive attitude throughout the process. She noted that he maintained a light-hearted atmosphere on set, despite the challenges posed by his costume.
“Wicker,” directed by Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson, is set to be released in theatres on October 23. As the film approaches its debut, the anticipation surrounding both the story and Skarsgård’s performance continues to grow, particularly given the unique nature of his character.
The blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology in costume design has sparked interest not only among fans of Skarsgård but also within the broader film community. With a unique narrative and striking visual elements, “Wicker” promises to be a standout addition to this year’s cinematic offerings. As it prepares for its theatrical release, audiences eagerly await the opportunity to see how Skarsgård’s transformative role will unfold on screen.