Introduction
Death of a Unicorn is a 2025 dark fantasy comedy horror film directed by Alex Scharfman in his directorial debut. The film stars Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega as a father and daughter who accidentally kill a unicorn, leading to a series of events that explore themes of corporate greed, environmental exploitation, and the consequences of tampering with nature. Produced by A24, the film blends elements of horror, satire, and fantasy to deliver a unique cinematic experience.ew.com+9en.wikipedia.org+9washingtonpost.com+9upi.com+9nickelodeon.org+9en.wikipedia.org+9
Plot Summary
The story follows Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd), a widowed attorney, and his daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega), who are en route to a weekend retreat hosted by Elliot’s employer, the wealthy pharmaceutical CEO Odell Leopold (Richard E. Grant). During their drive, they accidentally hit a unicorn, which possesses miraculous healing properties. They transport the injured creature to the Leopold estate, where the family seeks to exploit its powers. The situation escalates when the unicorn’s mate arrives, leading to a battle for survival as the family faces the wrath of the mystical creatures.people.com+10washingtonpost.com+10rogerebert.com+10upi.com+6nickelodeon.org+6enzian.org+6
Themes and Social Commentary
At its core, Death of a Unicorn serves as a satirical critique of corporate greed and the pharmaceutical industry’s exploitation of natural resources. The film draws parallels between the Leopold family’s actions and real-world ethical concerns, highlighting the lengths to which powerful entities will go to capitalize on unique discoveries, regardless of the moral implications. The inclusion of mythical creatures adds a layer of fantasy, allowing the film to explore these themes in a heightened, allegorical context.
Character Analysis
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Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd): Rudd portrays a father caught in a moral dilemma, balancing his loyalty to his employer with his responsibility to his daughter and the mystical creature. His performance adds depth to the character, showcasing the internal conflict between personal ethics and professional obligations.cinemablend.com+3ew.com+3theguardian.com+3
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Ridley Kintner (Jenna Ortega): Ortega delivers a compelling performance as a young woman who becomes increasingly disillusioned with the events unfolding around her. Her character’s growth reflects the film’s exploration of innocence lost and the awakening to harsh realities.upi.com+7ew.com+7people.com+7
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Odell Leopold (Richard E. Grant): Grant’s portrayal of the ambitious CEO adds a layer of complexity to the film’s antagonist. His character embodies the archetype of corporate villainy, driven by profit and power, yet also reveals vulnerabilities that humanize him.rogerebert.com
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Shepard Leopold (Will Poulter): Poulter’s performance as Odell’s son provides a mix of comedic relief and menace. His character’s eccentricities and moral ambiguity add unpredictability to the narrative.upi.com+6en.wikipedia.org+6washingtonpost.com+6
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Supporting Characters: The film features a strong supporting cast, including Téa Leoni, Anthony Carrigan, Sunita Mani, and Jessica Hynes, each contributing to the film’s rich tapestry of characters that enhance the storytelling.rogerebert.com+4en.wikipedia.org+4ew.com+4
Cinematography and Visual Style
Cinematographer Larry Fong’s work in Death of a Unicorn employs a blend of naturalistic and stylized visuals to create a world that feels both grounded and fantastical. The use of lighting and color schemes enhances the film’s tone, shifting from serene landscapes to tense, ominous settings as the narrative progresses. The design of the unicorns and other mythical elements incorporates practical effects and CGI, aiming to create creatures that are both awe-inspiring and terrifying.en.wikipedia.org
Music and Sound Design
The film’s score, composed by Dan Romer and Giosuè Greco, complements the narrative’s emotional and thematic beats. The music ranges from haunting melodies to intense, rhythmic compositions, mirroring the film’s shifts between horror and satire. The sound design further immerses the audience, with the sounds of the mystical creatures and the environment playing a crucial role in building tension and atmosphere.en.wikipedia.org
Critical Reception
Death of a Unicorn received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 54% rating from critics and a 77% audience score, indicating a divide between professional reviewers and general audiences. Critics praised the film’s performances, particularly those of Will Poulter and Jenna Ortega, but noted issues with inconsistent tone and pacing. Some reviews highlighted the film’s satirical elements and its commentary on corporate greed, while others felt that it failed to fully capitalize on its unique premise.nickelodeon.org+7decider.com+7washingtonpost.com+7rottentomatoes.com
Box Office and Streaming Performance
Death of a Unicorn was released theatrically in the United States by A24 on March 28, 2025. The film grossed $16.1 million against a production budget of $15 million, making it a modest commercial success. Following its theatrical run, the film became available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, where it attracted a broader audience.en.wikipedia.org+1people.com+1
Conclusion
Death of a Unicorn is a film that blends elements of horror, fantasy, and satire to explore themes of corporate greed and the exploitation of natural resources. While it may not have fully realized its potential, the film offers a unique perspective and serves as a conversation starter about the ethical implications of modern industry. Its performances, particularly those of Will Poulter and Jenna Ortega, provide moments of depth and humor, adding to the film’s overall impact.