Curzon is excited to announce the acquisition of writer-director Theo Rhys’ debut feature Stuffed, based on his BAFTA-nominated short film of the same name. The film made its World Premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival, opening its Discovery section.
Joss Holden-Rea, who co-wrote the screenplay, also composed the original music for this musical, continuing his collaboration with Rhys, which began on the short film.
The cast includes Tony, Emmy and BAFTA winner Jodie Comer – known for Killing Eve, 28 Years Later and The Bikeriders – alongside a seasoned actor of British independent cinema, BIFA-nominated Harry Melling, who recently received acclaim for his leading role in Pillion.
The idiosyncratic comedy-romance follows reclusive taxidermist Araminta (Comer) who, after placing an advert seeking the perfect human specimen to stuff, receives a response from Bernie (Melling). Bernie, a lonely factory worker, fears he will be forgotten and leave no legacy behind. As the two outcasts embark on their macabre plan, an unexpected romance sparks between them, complicating matters: in preparation for death, they find a life worth living.
Stuffed is produced by Sam Ritzenberg and Dimitra Tsingou, alongside Myles Payne and Hayley Williams of Agile Films, with Danny Roberts, Jackie Langelier and H.S. Naji of Fresh Fish Films. The film was developed by BFI and funded by Fresh Fish Films, the BFI (awarding National Lottery funding) and Ffilm Cymru Wales, as well as Calculus Media.
Cornerstone Films is handling worldwide sales.
The deal was negotiated by Carla Quarto di Palo, Head of Sales for Cornerstone Films and Eleonora Pesci, Head of Acquisitions for Curzon.
Jake Garriock, Senior Director of Distribution at Curzon, said: “It feels like a small miracle that a film as original and enjoyable as Stuffed exists. 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.”
