Jodie Comer and Harry Melling Star in the Unconventional Musical 'Stuffed'

'Stuffed,' directed by Theo Rhys, is a unique musical that explores a bizarre romance between Araminta, played by Jodie Comer, and Bernie, portrayed by Harry Melling. The film, which is based on a short film, delves into themes of isolation and the macabre, as Araminta, an amateur taxidermist, seeks a volunteer to preserve a human body.

While Comer and Melling's performances have been praised for their depth and commitment, the film itself has garnered mixed reactions. The Hollywood Reporter describes it as a 'discouraging slog' with simplistic lyrics and a lack of fresh perspective, while Variety acknowledges its distinctive and unexpectedly humane qualities, despite its macabre premise.

Critics note the film's struggle to balance its eccentric premise with emotional depth. While the musical score has been critiqued for lacking hummable tunes, Variety highlights the sincerity of the songwriting, suggesting that it adds to the film's unique charm.

What we know

• Jodie Comer stars as Araminta, a taxidermist with a dark obsession. Confirmed by www.hollywoodreporter.com, variety.com
• Harry Melling plays Bernie, a lonely man who responds to Araminta's unusual proposal. Confirmed by www.hollywoodreporter.com, variety.com
• 'Stuffed' is based on a short film and marks Theo Rhys' feature debut. Confirmed by www.hollywoodreporter.com, variety.com
• The film has received mixed reviews, with some praising the performances and others criticizing the writing. Confirmed by www.hollywoodreporter.com, variety.com

Where the reports differ

• The Hollywood Reporter describes the film as a 'discouraging slog,' while Variety finds it 'distinctive and unexpectedly humane.' www.hollywoodreporter.com, variety.com
• Variety notes the sincerity of the songwriting, while The Hollywood Reporter criticizes the lyrics as 'woefully simplistic.' www.hollywoodreporter.com, variety.com

Sources

• www.hollywoodreporter.com — Jodie Comer Shines in the Disappointing Musical 'Stuffed'
• variety.com — A Macabre Musical Journey: Jodie Comer and Harry Melling Shine in 'Stuffed'