Jodie Comer and Harry Melling Bring Eccentric Charm to Taxidermy Musical 'Stuffed'
Theo Rhys' debut feature 'Stuffed' is a macabre pop-opera about a romance that unfolds through taxidermy. The film takes time to find its rhythm but ultimately offers distinctive and unexpectedly humane rewards. Jodie Comer's performance is a high-wire act that she plays with conviction.
Theo Rhys' debut feature, 'Stuffed,' premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival, presenting a macabre pop-opera where a romance unfolds through taxidermy. The film pairs Jodie Comer with Harry Melling in this eccentric vehicle.
Reviewer Guy Lodge notes that while the picture takes time to settle, it offers unique and unexpectedly touching payoffs. Comer delivers a bold, gut-level performance, demonstrating Broadway-caliber singing—a stark contrast to her Tony-winning stage role in 'Prima Facie,' which is being adapted for film with Cynthia Erivo replacing her.
This release could broaden the appeal of unconventional musicals, potentially encouraging studios to fund similarly eccentric projects. Audiences may find their expectations of genre-bending narratives challenged, while Comer's committed performance might solidify her reputation as a versatile leading lady beyond mainstream dramas. The film's niche appeal suggests it may cultivate a dedicated cult following, influencing how morbid themes are perceived in entertainment, though its commercial reach remains uncertain.