David Bridges
The phrase “cult classic” has evolved in today’s digital landscape, where virtually every piece of media is accessible online. However, O’Dessa, a rock musical steeped in themes of destiny, rebellion, and tyranny, genuinely feels poised to become a genuine cult classic. This isn’t merely a film that garners a fanbase; it’s the kind of quirky cinema that would be treasured by a group of devoted movie enthusiasts, passed around on VHS tapes as if they were precious artifacts. For a rock musical, there is truly no greater aspiration than to resonate with the misfits and outcasts who find solace in its melodies and messages.
Crafted with passion by Geremy Jasper, known for Patti Cake$, O’Dessa opens its narrative in a desolate farm, far removed from the bustling world. Here, the titular character sings about the destiny her father foretold for her. As the Seventh Son, she wields an heirloom six-string guitar, and her song is prophesied to liberate the world from a tyrannical ruler who revels in opulence while his subjects suffer in silence. This setup lays the groundwork for a compelling journey of empowerment and resistance.
Drawing inspiration from iconic queer films like The Rocky Horror Picture Show and The Legend of Billie Jean, O’Dessa presents a groundbreaking musical that oscillates between riveting, romantic, grotesque, and exhilarating. It not only entertains but also challenges societal norms and expectations through bold storytelling and unforgettable performances.
Experience Sadie Sink’s Captivating Performance as the Fearless Protagonist of O’Dessa
O’Dessa’s journey begins with the familiar tale of a dreamer, as described by her “dirt-farmer” mother, who refers to her as a “19-year-old with stars in her eyes.” Portrayed by the talented Sadie Sink, this farm girl yearns for the vibrant life that awaits her in the big city, filled with culture and chaos. Satylite City presents the promise of fame, television appearances, and the opportunity to embrace her destiny as a “rambler,” just like her late father. Armed with her cherished guitar and heartfelt folk-country songs, O’Dessa aspires to ignite change and inspire others. However, her path to success is fraught with obstacles, including duplicitous “train rats,” indifferent pawn shop owners, brutish antagonists, and a sultry lounge singer, reminiscent of Orville Peck, who leads her down a winding road of romance, rescue, and vengeance.
In a refreshing twist, the narrative flips traditional gender roles; the “Seventh Son,” traditionally envisioned as a male hero destined to bring enlightenment, is instead a girl. Additionally, the captivating and tragic lounge singer, whose body and voice become commodities in a harsh world, is portrayed by a male actor. Kelvin Harrison Jr. (Mufasa: The Lion King, Cyrano) stands alongside Sink as Euri Dervish, whose charming exterior conceals a gentle spirit yearning for genuine love and connection. Together, they craft a unique dynamic that subverts expectations and enriches the narrative.
As hinted in the trailer, O’Dessa and Euri’s romance blossoms quickly, finding love amidst a chaotic landscape shrouded in shadows and vibrant neon lights. As they plan their wedding, their choices defy gender conventions; O’Dessa dons a rockabilly tuxedo while Euri opts for a gown complemented by a striking red veil. Sink shines as the androgynous street performer, while Harrison captivates as her deeply sensitive yet passionate partner. Yet, the freedom to express love is relentlessly challenged in Satylite City, a place ruled by authoritarian oppression and electrifying control.
Mashable Top Stories
Witness Regina Hall’s Magnificent Transformation into the Villainous Plutonovich in O’Dessa
At the helm of Satylite City is the flamboyant dictator Plutonovich, portrayed by Murray Bartlett (from The Last of Us). He lures the citizens with grandiose yet hollow promises and continually broadcasts his image on television, casting a spell of complacency over the populace, even as their world crumbles around them. Anyone who dares to oppose his egotistical reign faces swift retribution from his enforcer, Neon Dion, played by Regina Hall. Dion wields brass knuckles that pack the shocking power of a Taser, making her an imposing figure in this dystopian landscape.
Regina Hall has long proven her versatility, seamlessly transitioning between outrageous comedies like Girls Trip and poignant dramas such as Support The Girls, to chilling roles in suspenseful films like The Master. In O’Dessa, she channels the spirit of Grace Jones, embodying a powerful 1980s New Wave/punk aesthetic infused with a fierce attitude that demands respect. Dressed in sharp-shouldered leather and sporting blunt bangs that feel as if they could cut through steel, Hall’s piercing gaze is both captivating and intimidating as she surveys her territory. Her physical presence is deliberate and commanding, and even a limp stemming from her character’s tragic backstory adds to her formidable aura. Rather than eliciting contempt, Hall’s villainy is so striking and stylish that it compels admiration.
Hall’s portrayal of Neon Dion captivates viewers, embodying both terror and allure, complemented by her fierce swagger and intense fury. She enriches the film’s world-building, offering layers of depth that extend beyond the visually stunning production design. In contrast to Plutonovich’s exaggeratedly cheerful demeanor and the vibrant energy of a hyperactive reality TV host, Hall serves as a compelling counterbalance. Together, their performances create a captivating villainous dynamic that entices viewers to understand the seductive allure of Satylite City while simultaneously igniting a desire for its eventual downfall.
Discover the Mesmerizing Soundtrack of O’Dessa That Elevates the Storytelling
Throughout this engaging tale, numerous characters take to the stage to sing, but it’s Sadie Sink as O’Dessa who leads the musical charge. Her character undergoes an electrifying transformation from a naive country girl to a rock ‘n’ roll sensation. As her journey unfolds, O’Dessa’s musical style evolves, moving away from simple folk melodies to bold and provocative guitar riffs and themes. Meanwhile, Harrison exudes charismatic sex appeal, delivering sultry songs that resonate with nightclub audiences. Each performance enriches the vibrant world of O’Dessa, crafting a tapestry of sound that captivates the audience. However, when the moment arrives for the heroine’s ultimate song—one that is meant to change the world—I found myself somewhat disappointed.
In Rocky Horror, the climactic number “I’m Going Home” is delivered by a malevolent misfit, and its emotional depth and strangeness leave a lasting impact, even as the character meets his fate. Unfortunately, O’Dessa does not reach such daring heights. Instead, it is O’Dessa, the heroic figure, who is given the final spotlight, but her performance, while heartfelt, lacks the explosive energy that one might anticipate from a grand finale. I found myself longing for something more akin to Pat Benatar’s empowering anthem “Invincible,” which resonated powerfully in The Legend of Billie Jean, where a resilient young woman stood against corrupt forces. O’Dessa’s transformation mirrors Billie Jean’s journey—shifting from long, feminine locks beloved by men and mothers alike to a boldly cropped, edgy look that embraces the spirit of rock. Thus, I expected more from O’Dessa’s climactic moment.
Nevertheless, throughout the film, Jasper expertly paves O’Dessa’s path with musical treasures. The soundtrack is a delightful blend of genres, transitioning from country to rock to funk and beyond. The film’s vivid color palette creates a world that is both strikingly surreal and hauntingly beautiful. The performances from the leads, along with supporting characters, including circus performers and character actor Mark Boone Junior, add layers of texture, captivating viewers with each fleeting moment of magic and menace. Rather than adopting a polished aesthetic, Jasper embraces a gritty, raw style, combining dirt and glitter to imbue the film with a dynamic queer punk energy that infuses every scene with spontaneity and potential.
For all these reasons, O’Dessa feels less like a contemporary movie and more like a long-lost gem, finally brought to light. It’s an intoxicating fusion of color and sound, joy and anguish. While Jasper’s choice to keep the most gruesome violence offscreen may slightly undermine the underground vibe, O’Dessa remains an exhilaratingly unconventional and sensational rock musical. It is adorned with powerful performances and infused with an abundance of unexpected flair, making it a unique cinematic experience.
O’Dessa was reviewed at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival. The Searchlight Pictures release is set to premiere on Hulu on March 20.
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Daniel Mercer
