The film “Death of a Unicorn,” produced by A24, presents a unique twist on the traditional unicorn narrative, depicting them as fearsome creatures in a darkly comedic feature. The film skillfully integrates humor with a critique of everyday capitalist conflicts.
Paul Rudd plays the character of Elliot, a single father striving for advancement alongside his terminally ill employer, Odell Leopold, portrayed by Richard E. Grant. Odell, who is on the brink of death, seeks to extend his life through advanced medicines. The Leopold family invites Elliot and his daughter Ridley, played by Jenna Ortega, to their secluded woodland mansion. This invitation offers Elliot the opportunity to prove his capability as the financial manager of the family estate after Odell’s passing, while also assessing his suitability to care for the surviving family members.
The plot takes a turn when Elliot accidentally runs over a baby unicorn en route to the mansion. This incident, occurring against a backdrop of familial tensions between Elliot and Ridley, showcases contrasting personalities—Elliot’s naivety against Ridley’s deadpan demeanor. The film expertly uses these dynamics, highlighted by the performances of Rudd and Ortega, to provide comedic value, under the direction of Alex Scharfman.
Upon arrival at the Leopold estate, with the deceased unicorn hidden in their trunk, Elliot and Ridley embark on an absurd adventure. The Leopolds, portrayed by Téa Leoni and Will Poulter, exemplify elitist stereotypes commonly seen in media, adding depth to the comedic narrative. The ensemble cast, including Anthony Carrigan, Sunita Mani, Steve Park, and Jessica Hynes, deliver standout performances, enhancing the film’s comedic impact.
Discovery of the unicorn’s healing blood properties propels a series of exploitative actions by the Leopold family. Odell seeks replication, his wife desires fame, and Shepard, their son, intends to transform it into a designer drug, much to the dismay of Ridley. Despite her pleas to safeguard the unicorn, Elliot remains focused on overcoming their financial challenges, highlighting timeless class struggles through a modern satirical lens.
The film critiques the relentless pursuit of profit over common sense, drawing parallels to movies like “Knives Out.” The narrative escalates when an unbeatable threat emerges from the woods, underscoring humanity’s futile attempts to manipulate nature through wealth and violence. As these pursuits culminate in a chaotic yet satisfying blend of genres, “Death of a Unicorn” offers a refreshing mix of comedy, fantasy, and horror—showcasing unicorns in an unexpectedly humorous and intimidating light.
“Death of a Unicorn” is scheduled for theatrical release on March 28.
