Basketweavers Question Alexander Skarsgård’s Wicker Costume in Upcoming Romcom

Global basket makers and industry experts have raised design questions regarding actor Alexander Skarsgård’s wicker costume in the romantic comedy film Wicker.

While online audiences and brands have reacted humorously to the character, professional craftspeople have focused on the material choices and construction techniques used for the cinematic costume.

Community Concerns and Material Debates

• Choice of Material: Former editor and basket maker Deborah Needleman, alongside over 100 other makers, questioned why the character is not made of traditional materials like willow or rush, given the setting.
• Technique Differences: Some artisans noted that the costume appears plaited rather than traditionally woven, sparking discussions about the exact definition of wicker.
• Traditional Craft: Makers such as Lewis Prosser have discussed various historical basketry techniques, noting that fantasy film costumes necessarily differ from practical everyday items.

Special Effects Production

Joe Dunckley, a prosthetic designer at Wētā Workshop, explained that real willow was impractical for the dynamic movements required of the sentient character.

• The team of 80 specialists used a rubber-like thermoplastic elastomer to 3D print 50 interlocking body pieces attached to a spandex suit.
• The 18-month production process also involved creating customized facial appliances and using muka fibres from New Zealand flax for facial hair details.

Practical Implications and Verification

• Verification: Readers can review official trailers and interviews from Wētā Workshop or production announcements to verify details regarding the film's costume design.
• Awareness: Industry representatives have noted that the public discussion has successfully drawn unexpected attention to traditional, and occasionally endangered, basketweaving skills.