The Guardian catches up with Robin Hardy, director of the pagan-themed cult classic “The Wicker Man”. Hardy discusses his latest book “Cowboys For Christ” (a sequel of sorts to “The Wicker Man”) and marvels at the cult audience that has built up amongst his most famous film.

“There have been so many books about the film, and there was an academic festival in Glasgow, for which I gave the keynote speech. And to tell you the absolute truth, it’s very difficult not to howl with laughter most of the time. I mean, we had essays on The Wicker Man and Wittegenstein, The Wicker Man and feminism, and all sorts of things like that. It went on for days, and it took itself very seriously.”

While Hardy denies it, The Guardian thinks that paganism is the dominant theme to Hardy’s work.

“Hardy denies that paganism is the uniting interest of his life. Scoffs at the idea. I’m sure he’s right. He probably has many other interests – having children, for instance – that wouldn’t make a film, but have been just as defining. Still, I think it’s fair to say that paganism is a theme.”

Hardy plans to shoot a film version of “Cowboys For Christ” starring Christopher Lee as soon as he has enough financial backing to go forward. Lets hope that happy day comes soon.

Tags: Cowboys For Christ, Paganism, Robin Hardy, The Wicker Man