Review: Death of a Unicorn
Death of a Unicorn opens in theaters Friday, March 28. This review is based on a screening at the 2025 SXSW Film and TV Festival.
Exploring an intriguing premise filled with potential moral dilemmas, Death of a Unicorn follows corporate lawyer Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd) as he encounters a mysterious creature. When it’s revealed that the animal’s body possesses healing powers, Elliot and his daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega) must navigate the challenge of concealing the accidental collision from Elliot’s affluent pharmaceutical boss. Despite a promising setup and engaging performances, particularly from Will Poulter as the cunning son of the pharmaceutical CEO, the film quickly loses momentum.
One of the main issues with Death of a Unicorn is its failure to fully develop its emotional arcs. The relationship between Elliot and Ridley, strained by personal tragedy and neglect, remains stagnant throughout the film. As they embark on a journey to fulfill their boss’s demands, they inadvertently collide with a mystical unicorn, sparking a series of fantastical events. While the film hints at deeper themes and conflicts, it ultimately fails to explore them fully, leaving the characters in a state of static moral ambiguity.
Despite a talented cast, including standout performances from Richard E. Grant, Téa Leoni, Jessica Hynes, and Anthony Carrigan, the film struggles to maintain its initial momentum. Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of Ridley, while nuanced, is hindered by the lackluster development of her character, ultimately making her appear one-dimensional and unrelatable.
While Death of a Unicorn presents some imaginative concepts, such as the creature’s magical abilities and the disruptions caused by its presence, the execution falls short. The film’s attempt to blend horror elements with comedy results in tonal inconsistencies and a lack of cohesive storytelling. Additionally, the sporadic bursts of cartoonish violence detract from the overall viewing experience, creating a sense of discomfort rather than enjoyment.
Director Alex Scharfman demonstrates skill in staging physical comedy and incorporating creative elements like the creature’s interference with electricity. However, the film struggles to maintain a balance between tension and humor, resulting in a disjointed and unengaging narrative. While Death of a Unicorn teases intriguing ideas, it ultimately fails to deliver on its potential, leaving audiences with a sense of unfulfilled promise.