Jodie Comer's 'Stuffed': A Taxidermy Musical That's More Touching Than It Seems

The Curious Case of a Musical Body Horror

Let's be honest — when you hear "taxidermy musical," your first thought isn't likely to be a warm, fuzzy story. But Jodie Comer's latest film, Stuffed, takes that concept and somehow transforms it into something oddly touching. It's a film that demands patience, but rewards viewers with an emotional journey that's both unsettling and deeply human.

"It's a somewhat telling coincidence that 'Stuffed,' a very peculiar new vehicle for Jodie Comer, is premiering at the same edition of Toronto as 'Prima Facie,' the film adaptation of the stage hit that won the Liverpudlian actor a Tony last year... but with Cynthia Erivo taking over her role for the screen."

As Guy Lodge points out in his review, the timing of this release is curious — not least because it coincides with another major performance from Comer. Yet here we are, with a film that challenges expectations, one that might not immediately click but grows on you like an acquired taste. It's a strange beast, and it's absolutely delicious.

Comer's Bold Move

In Stuffed, Comer plays Araminta, a woman who has withdrawn from the world and is now obsessed with preserving bodies — not just for artistic reasons, but for love. Her passion is both haunting and poetic, and Comer's portrayal brings a depth that you might not expect from a film that could easily fall into the trap of being melodramatic or overwrought.

The story revolves around Bernie (Harry Melling), a lonely factory worker who finds himself drawn to Araminta's macabre art. His journey is one of self-discovery, and in many ways, it's his love for her that makes the film so emotionally resonant — even when the concept itself is far from romantic.

A Musical with Heart

One of the most striking elements of Stuffed is its musical score. While some might find the songs a bit too earnest, there's an unmistakable sincerity in Joss Holden-Rea's compositions that adds to the film's emotional weight. The musical numbers don't just serve as spectacle; they're integral to the narrative and character development.

Despite the film's unusual premise — a man volunteering to be preserved after death — the score provides a layer of warmth and humanity that keeps you engaged. It's not always easy, but it's always sincere, and that sincerity is what allows us to care about these characters even when they're dealing with bizarre and sometimes disturbing situations.

Visuals That Speak Volumes

The production design in Stuffed deserves special attention. The world it creates — a gritty, working-class Northern England setting — feels lived-in and authentic. Beck Rainford's work is both stark and whimsical, offering a visual language that supports the film's emotional journey.

There are moments of genuine beauty amidst the decay, like the way the light filters through the grimy windows of Bernie's workplace or how Araminta's taxidermy studio is filled with carefully preserved creatures. It's a visual metaphor for the characters themselves — frozen in time, but not without feeling.

Humanity Amidst the Macabre

At its heart, Stuffed is about connection. Despite the grim subject matter, it explores how people long to be seen, to be remembered, and to matter. The film's exploration of mental health, loneliness, and identity makes it more than just a horror or musical — it's a meditation on what it means to be human.

Comer and Melling deliver nuanced performances that make the emotional core of the story shine. Their characters are flawed, complex, and deeply relatable. And while they may not be your typical couple, their relationship is one that speaks to the heart of human desire — to be loved for who you are, even when that love is unconventional.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed isn't a film for everyone. It's not going to win over critics with its subtlety or charm, but it does offer something rare in cinema today: a bold, unapologetic artistic statement that refuses to be ignored. It's both strange and beautiful, unsettling and touching — and I'd argue, quite brilliant.

It's the kind of film that leaves you thinking long after the credits roll. If you're willing to take a chance on something unconventional, you'll find a story that challenges and touches in equal measure. And for those who appreciate bold storytelling, this one is definitely worth your time.