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.
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
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
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!
Frequently asked questions
What is the forgotten Alan Rickman movie about?
The film is Blow Dry, a 2001 comedy directed by Paddy Breathnach, about a British hairdressing championship held in a small town. Alan Rickman plays Phil Allen, a retired hairstyling champion who is drawn back into competition and must confront his past, including his rivalry with a flashy competitor.
Who stars alongside Alan Rickman in Blow Dry?
The cast includes Bill Nighy as Rickman’s rival Ray Robertson, Natasha Richardson as Phil’s ex-wife Shelley, Josh Hartnett as Phil’s son Brian, Rachael Leigh Cook, Rachel Griffiths, and a small role for Warwick Davis. Supermodel Heidi Klum also appears in the film as Jasmine.
Why is Blow Dry considered an unusual role for Alan Rickman?
Blow Dry is notable because it’s a comedic and satirical performance from Rickman, whose career was largely built on serious, villainous, or dramatic roles like Severus Snape in Harry Potter. The film gives him a rare chance to show a lighter, more absurd side, and it holds a 55% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
