“Medusa Deluxe” is a highly enjoyable and engrossing new film that delivers a captivating murder mystery with more than a touch of flamboyance. Set in the world of competitive hairdressing, rivalries run deep and tensions are at fever pitch – because one of the entrants at a UK regional finals has been found dead in their dressing room – and not just dead, but scalped.
Writer-director Thomas Hardiman’s debut feature successfully blends the intricate whodunit mechanics of Agatha Christie’s with the unapologetic camp and interest in gender of early Pedro Almodóvar. The result is a cinematic delight that should keep audiences hooked throughout. Hardiman’s direction is visually brilliant, thanks to the smart cinematography by Robbie Ryan (surely one of the most talented men in UK cinema). His camera moves with a gentle curiosity, adding to the overall sense of intrigue and suspense.
The film truly shines in its portrayal of the characters, particularly Cleve (a scene-stealing Claire Perkins). Her performance is exceptional, and her closing speech captures the essence of the hairdressing world’s allure, meaning, and necessary ruthlessness. While some of the other characters could have been further developed, the promise shown in their moments on screen hints at their potential and adds to the overall charm of the film.
While the storytelling elements may not reach the intricacy of a top-tier whodunnit, the sheer enjoyment, engrossing plot, and flamboyant style of Medusa Deluxe make it a standout film. It successfully injects a fresh and vibrant perspective into the murder mystery genre while showcasing the dark dread that characterizes it. With its captivating visuals, memorable characters, and an unforgettable dance coda, Medusa Deluxe is a film that leaves a lasting impression.
What sets Medusa Deluxe apart for me is its transcendent dance coda, a magical sequence that elevates the film to another level,in the tradition of, say, Beau Travail. The final line at the end of the credits, “the dancers inherit the party,” leaves us on a note of wonder, considering the transformative power of artistic expression.
A delight.
Medusa Deluxe is in UK cinemas from June 9, and streaming on Mubi from August 4.
Whitlock&Pope 