Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars)
In Alex Scharfman’s audacious directorial debut, Death of a Unicorn, the mythical meets the macabre in a satirical horror-comedy that gleefully dismembers the upper echelons of society—both literally and figuratively. Produced by A24, known for its penchant for the peculiar, this film is a riotous blend of corporate critique and creature feature, where unicorns aren’t the stuff of fairy tales but vengeful beasts with a bone to pick.
A Tale of Two Kintners
The narrative gallops into motion with Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd), a widowed corporate lawyer, and his sardonic teenage daughter, Ridley (Jenna Ortega), embarking on a trip to a secluded estate owned by Elliot’s terminally ill employer, pharmaceutical magnate Odell Leopold (Richard E. Grant). Their journey takes a dark turn when they accidentally hit a unicorn with their car. In a misguided attempt at mercy, Elliot kills the creature, only to discover its blood has miraculous healing properties. This act sets off a chain reaction, drawing the ire of the unicorn’s kin and exposing the Leopolds’ insatiable greed.Wikipedia+3Roger Ebert+3The Guardian+3
Unicorns Unleashed: Myth Meets Mayhem
Scharfman subverts the traditional image of unicorns, transforming them into formidable entities with “deranged amber eyes” and “huge tombstone teeth” . These aren’t your childhood fantasy creatures; they’re symbols of nature’s wrath against human exploitation. The film’s unicorns serve as a metaphor for the consequences of commodifying the natural world, a theme that resonates in today’s climate of environmental degradation and corporate overreach. Wikipedia+2The Guardian+2Roger Ebert+2
Satire with a Sharp Horn
At its core, Death of a Unicorn is a scathing indictment of capitalist excess and performative philanthropy. The Leopolds, with their facade of moral superiority, are quick to abandon their principles when faced with the prospect of profiting from the unicorn’s remains. Their actions mirror real-world instances where altruism is often a veneer for self-interest, a point underscored by Ridley’s observation that “philanthropy is just reputation laundering for the oligarchy” .
Performances that Pierce
Jenna Ortega shines as Ridley, channeling a blend of goth-chick sarcasm and emotional depth reminiscent of Winona Ryder and Christina Ricci . Her dynamic with Rudd’s Elliot adds a layer of authenticity to the film’s fantastical elements. Richard E. Grant delivers a compelling performance as the morally bankrupt Odell, while Will Poulter’s portrayal of the entitled heir, Shepard, provides much of the film’s dark humor. Wikipedia+4The Guardian+4The Guardian+4Roger Ebert+3scifinow.co.uk+3The Guardian+3
Visuals: A Mixed Bag of Magic and Mayhem
The film’s visual effects are a study in contrasts. While some sequences, like Ridley’s ethereal connection with the unicorn’s horn, are rendered with haunting beauty , others suffer from rudimentary CGI that detracts from the overall experience. However, this inconsistency can be seen as a nod to the B-movie aesthetic, aligning with the film’s campy tone. The Guardian
Why 4 Out of 5 Stars?
Death of a Unicorn earns its four-star rating for its bold storytelling, compelling performances, and incisive social commentary. While the film occasionally falters in its execution—particularly with its special effects and some underdeveloped subplots—it succeeds in delivering a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience. It’s a film that dares to challenge conventions, inviting viewers to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature and the cost of unchecked ambition.
Final Thoughts
In a world where the rich often escape accountability, Death of a Unicorn serves as a fantastical reckoning. It’s a reminder that beneath the glittering facade of wealth lies a potential for destruction, both self-inflicted and otherwise. For those who relish tales of the mighty falling and the mythical rising, this film is a must-watch.