The Wicker Man

On April 29, Sergeant Neil Howie embarks on a journey via seaplane to the secluded island of Summerisle. He is driven by an anonymous letter that raises concerns about the mysterious disappearance of a young girl named Rowan Morrison.

Upon arrival, Howie is unsettled by the sight of islanders honoring ancient pagan deities amidst what were once Christian churches. He witnesses bizarre rituals and open sexual practices, revealing a stark contrast to his pious beliefs.

While staying at the Green Man Inn, Howie tries to gather information about Rowan. Despite the islanders' evasive behaviors, he is determined to uncover the truth, even when the landlord dismisses his questions flippantly.

Howie visits the local school, where he questions children about Rowan only to receive denials. However, he discovers her name in the school register and is eventually directed to her grave by the schoolteacher, heightening his suspicion.

On April 30, Howie confronts Lord Summerisle to seek permission to exhume Rowan's grave. During their conversation, Summerisle shares the history of the island's shift from Christianity to ancient paganism, igniting Howie's apprehension.

Howie proceeds to exhume Rowan's grave, only to find it empty, with the coffin containing only the remains of a hare. This discovery prompts him to associate it with the island's disturbing traditions involving human sacrifices for agricultural success.

While inspecting photographs from the annual harvest, Howie notes the absence of one featuring the May Queen, raising further suspicion. The landlord's casual explanation only deepens his intrigue into the island's agricultural practices.

On May Day, Howy desperately tries to return to the mainland, only to discover his seaplane is inoperable and its radio damaged. Stranded, he realizes he must take drastic measures to save Rowan.

During the May Day festivities, Howie disguises himself in a Punch costume and infiltrates the parade. He manages to locate Rowan amidst the joyful chaos and sends a silent plea for her rescue.

After freeing Rowan, their escape is thwarted when islanders intercept them. Rather than being welcomed as saviors, they find themselves at the center of the island's ancient rituals.

Lord Summerisle reveals that Howie himself is intended to be the sacrifice, due to his arrival, status as a lawman, and maintained virginity. Howie attempts to warn Summerisle about the potential revolt from the villagers should the harvest fail.

In a tragic culmination of events, Howie is forced into a large wicker effigy alongside various animals. The islanders set the Wicker Man ablaze as they sing ancient folk songs, sealing Howie's fate.

As Howie is consumed by the flames, he recites Psalm 23, praying fervently for salvation. The fire engulfs him and the animals, marking the tragic end of his quest and the chilling renewal of the islands’ pagan traditions.