Viewers Question Intimacy With 'Wicker' Man, Experts Weigh In
Discussions around the film 'Wicker' have focused on the practicalities and potential risks of intimacy with a character made of wicker.
The recently released romantic comedy "Wicker" has sparked considerable audience discussion, particularly around the film's central premise: a woman who commissions a husband made of wicker. While the movie explores themes of desire and societal convention, a significant portion of viewer curiosity has fixated on a more specific, and perhaps unexpected, aspect of this fantastical scenario: the potential for physical discomfort during intimate moments with a wicker partner.
Social media has been abuzz with questions about whether a "wicker man" could cause splinters. This concern, while seemingly unusual, has been noted by sex therapists who acknowledge the validity of such inquiries within the context of the film's narrative. Nazanin Moali, a certified sex therapist and host of the "Sexology" podcast, told HuffPost that the erotic energy and unique nature of a fictional wicker partner naturally lead to such questions.
"That to me was very interesting because it sounds like a fantasy, right?" Moali stated. "And what makes it interesting is that erotic energy." She added that the fixation on potential splinters, while surprising, makes sense given the movie's premise.
Practicalities and Potential Risks
Experts clarify that "wicker" refers to a weaving technique, and the material used for the character in the film, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård, was specifically designed for safety. Costume designers reportedly used a 3D-printed, rubber-like material, described as softer than actual wicker, to construct the character's anatomy.
However, in real-world scenarios involving objects made of wood or similar rough materials, intimacy could pose genuine health risks. Lauren Streicher, a sexual health and menopause expert, noted to Vulture that such materials could potentially cause vaginal microtears or bleeding due to their texture.
"Vaginal tissue very easily can get scratched and can bleed, depending on how smooth the wicker is," Streicher explained. She emphasized, however, that there is no actual data on sexual experiences with a wicker penis.
Moali also pointed out that lubricants might not be advisable with such materials, potentially leading to unhygienic outcomes. While she has not encountered reports of vaginal splinters from sexual activity, she acknowledged that people repurpose various household items as sex toys, and safety precautions are always advised.
Exploring Fantasies and Safe Practices
Despite the fantastical nature of the film, discussions around the "Wicker" character and potential intimacy have also touched upon the broader benefits of incorporating sex toys into one's sex life. Moali highlighted that toys can eliminate the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, offer greater control over the sexual experience, and can help a partner prepare for penetrative sex.
While conventional sex toys are generally safe, experts caution that improper cleaning can still lead to infections. The film's creators reportedly prioritized safety in their design, ensuring the on-screen depiction was as realistic yet safe as possible within the narrative's bounds.
The creators of Skarsgård's character costume expressed satisfaction with the audience's enthusiastic reception and the buzz generated by their design, noting their goal was to create something that could inspire fashion trends. They acknowledged that the significant hype surrounding the movie was a surprise.