Always watch the longer version, the 'Director's Cut', (both are available on the same DVD): there's some beautiful photography of the islands and the character of Sgt Howie becomes clearer when he is shown before he leaves for the island, so that the film becomes more understandable, among other clarifications. The longer version still suffers from cuts and there is at least one scene that doesn't make sense.
I read somewhere that there is a 'Wickerman II' in which Lord Summerisle and Sgt Howie (somehow) reappear. Any information please?
M the GM, I greatly admire your skill of observation and appreciation of delightful naked ladies!