Alan Rickman fans probably remember him as the serious Professor Snape from Harry Potter film series. But there’s one of his surprising movies that is still waiting to be rediscovered. It’s Paddy Breathnach’s 2001 flick, Blow Dry, a laugh-out-loud comedy about a contest to find the best hairdressers in the country.

Alan Rickman as Phil Allen in a still from Blow Dry
Alan Rickman as Phil Allen in a still from Blow Dry (Credits: Miramax)

The British film starts when a small town hosts The British Hairdressing Championship. There, Phil Allen (Rickman), a retired hairdressing champ, has to confront his past.

Blow Dry is a Hilarious Hairdressing Comedy with Star-Studded Cast

A still from Blow Dry (Credits: Miramax)
A still from Blow Dry (Credits: Miramax)

The movie Blow Dry is all about the intense world of British Hairdressing Championships. Alan Rickman played a hairstyling star who’s drawn back into the competition in his small town. His rival is the flashy Raymond “Ray” Robertson, played by the quirky Bill Nighy. Their feud is filled with outrageous insults and funny competitive antics to outdo each other.

The movie gets even funnier with some great actors joining the main stars. Natasha Richardson joined as Phil’s ex-wife Shelley. Josh Hartnett, known from old teen movies, played Brian Allen, the main character’s son. But there’s one thing stealing the show in Hartnett’s performance is his attempt at a British accent! Apparently, things get especially funny when he tries to channel his inner Yorkshireman, dropping lines like “What’s it to do with you, who I talk to, aye?”

You’ll spot some familiar faces like Rachael Leigh Cook as Christina Robertson and Rachael Griffiths as Sandra in the film. There’s a fun surprise too – supermodel Heidi Klum as Jasmine! And keep an eye out for Warwick Davis (Filius Flitwick from Harry Potter) in a small role.

Alan Rickman’s Comedic Role in Blow Dry is a Must Watch

Alan Rickman and Josh Harnett in a still from Blow Dry
Alan Rickman and Josh Harnett in a still from Blow Dry (Credits: Miramax)

Blow Dry is unique for actors like Alan Rickman because it’s a comedic and satirical role, which was rare for him. Unlike his usual roles known for depth and villainy, this movie shows a different side of him, doing hilarious stuff.

It’s a must-see for those who want to see the late actor in a lighter role. However, it’s clear that his talent was far beyond just one particular genre! And there is no doubt, why Rickman was Tom Burke’s (star of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga) godfather.

Even though the film has a 55% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s still worth watching for anyone seeking a heartwarming story (with a bit of absurdity!).

Watch Blow Dry on Amazon Prime Video!

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