EXCLUSIVE: Curzon has acquired Theo Rhys’s body horror musical Stuffed, starring Jodie Comer and Harry Melling, for UK-Ireland release.
The film world premiered at Toronto, where it opened its Discovery section.
A reclusive taxidermist, played by Comer, places an advert seeking the perfect human specimen to stuff, and receives a response from a lonely factory worker (Melling), who fears he will be forgotten and leave no legacy behind.
Producers are Sam Ritzenberg and Dimitra Tsingou, alongside Myles Payne and Hayley Williams of the UK’s Agile Films, with Danny Roberts, Jackie Langelier and H.S. Naji of LA-based Fresh Fish Films. The film was developed by BFI and funded by Fresh Fish Films, the BFI, Ffilm Cymru Wales and Calculus Media.
Cornerstone Films handles worldwide sales.
Joss Holden-Rea composed the original music for the musical and co-wrote the screenplay with Rhys. Holden-Rea had previously collaborated with UK filmmaker and Screen Star of Tomorrow 2026 Rhys on the short film of the Bafta-nominated short of same name that the feature grew out of.
“It feels like a small miracle that a film as original and enjoyable as Stuffed exists,” said Jake Garriock, senior director of distribution at Curzon. “Theo and his team have brought this tale to life with wit and flair, blending the macabre and romantic to thrilling effect. Jodie and Harry deliver performances to die for. We’re excited to bring this brilliantly bold experience to audiences in the UK and Eire.”
