When you hear the phrase Death of a Unicorn, your first thought might not immediately jump to a dark comedy-horror hybrid—but leave it to A24 to subvert expectations.
Starring Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, and a cast brimming with talent, this upcoming film directed by Alex Scharfman takes a whimsical mythological creature and flips the narrative into a sharp critique of greed, family, and fantastical chaos.
Let’s delve into why this film has already piqued the interest of audiences.
The Plot: Roadkill Meets Magic
In Death of a Unicorn, Elliot (Paul Rudd) and his teenage daughter Riley (Jenna Ortega) accidentally hit and kill a unicorn while on the way to a corporate retreat hosted by Elliot’s billionaire boss, Dell Leopold (Richard E. Grant).
What starts as an absurd hit-and-run evolves into a fantastical nightmare when the unicorn’s remains—horn, blood, and all—are revealed to possess miraculous healing properties.
Naturally, the wealthy and morally dubious Leopold seeks to exploit this mythical jackpot.
But it doesn’t end there. The unicorn’s vengeful mother emerges, targeting the elite with sharp-toothed fury and setting the stage for a darkly comedic showdown between humanity’s hubris and the wrath of nature.
Meet the Cast of Death of a Unicorn
One of the film’s most exciting aspects is its stellar cast. Paul Rudd brings his signature charm to the role of Elliot, while Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of Riley adds a layer of youthful defiance and wit.
Richard E. Grant’s Dell Leopold is poised to be a deliciously devious antagonist.
Supporting roles by Téa Leoni, Will Poulter, and Anthony Carrigan ensure that the ensemble delivers not only on star power but also comedic timing and dramatic depth.
What the Trailer Reveals
Released in December 2024, the Death of a Unicorn trailer set the internet abuzz.
Equal parts hilarious and haunting, the teaser offers a glimpse of the film’s unique tone.
Scenes of Riley exclaiming, “It’s a unicorn!” as the mythical creature’s body lies lifeless on the road juxtapose brilliantly with shots of a snarling, predatory unicorn mother out for revenge.
The trailer’s clever use of visuals and music—including a haunting rendition of The Beach Boys’ Good Vibrations scored by John Carpenter—perfectly encapsulates the film’s blend of absurdity and suspense.
A24’s Signature Weirdness
Known for delivering cinematic gems that defy conventional genres, A24 once again ventures into bold territory with Death of a Unicorn.
Directed by Alex Scharfman in his feature debut, the film balances biting satire with moments of genuine horror.
Shot in Hungary under a SAG-AFTRA interim agreement, the production showcases the studio’s commitment to creative storytelling, even during challenging times in the industry.
Music That Sets the Mood
John Carpenter, the master of horror scores, teams up with Cody Carpenter and Daniel Davies to create a soundtrack that is equal parts eerie and enthralling.
The music seamlessly transitions between suspenseful undertones and whimsical beats, amplifying the film’s tonal shifts from comedy to horror.
The Unicorn as a Symbol
Beyond its mythical allure, the unicorn in this story represents themes of innocence exploited for profit.
Its magical properties serve as a metaphor for humanity’s tendency to commodify nature’s wonders, leading to disastrous consequences.
This layered storytelling adds depth to what could have been a straightforward revenge tale.
Release Date and Anticipation
Set to release in early 2025, Death of a Unicorn has already generated significant buzz among film enthusiasts.
With its unique premise, strong cast, and A24’s track record for hits like Everything Everywhere All At Once, this movie is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of dark comedies and supernatural horror.
Why Death of a Unicorn Stands Out
From its satirical “eat-the-rich” undertones to its blend of absurd humour and chilling suspense, Death of a Unicorn offers a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
With Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega leading the charge, backed by a stellar supporting cast and visionary direction, this film promises to leave audiences laughing, cringing, and contemplating long after the credits roll.
So, mark your calendars for 2025 and prepare to witness a unicorn story unlike any other—because in this A24 production, no horn goes unturned.
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