‘Death of a Unicorn’, directed and written by Alex Scharfman, is a quirky blend of creature feature and satirical commentary on big pharma that never hesitates to wear its inspirations on its sleeves. The film, which showcases the comedic talents of Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega, revolves around a father-daughter duo, Elliot and Ridley, who inadvertently hit and kill a unicorn while en route to a weekend retreat at the estate of Elliot’s eccentric billionaire boss, played by Richard E. Grant. As they grapple with the aftermath of their tragic accident, the story unfolds into a chaotic exploration of family dynamics and corporate greed.’
Elliot, played by Rudd, is a workaholic whose dedication to his job often overshadows his relationship with his daughter, Ridley. Struggling with the loss of her mother, Ridley, portrayed by Ortega, is anxious and self-isolating, making their retreat journey tense. The film effectively captures their complicated father-daughter relationship, but it often feels overshadowed by the outlandish circumstances in which they find themselves.
The allure of “Death of a Unicorn” lies much in its star-studded cast. While Rudd and Ortega deliver charming performances, it’s the ensemble of wealthy characters, played by Richard E. Grant, Téa Leoni, and Will Poulter, that truly steals the spotlight. Each character embodies the absurdity of privilege, and their antics provide some of the film’s most memorable moments. Poulter, in particular, shines as Shep, infusing the role with his signature brand of physical comedy as he interacts with the unicorn and its magical dust. His capacity to elevate even the flimsiest of gags makes him a scene-stealer, ensuring that audiences remain entertained throughout.
Despite its comedic strengths, ‘Death of a Unicorn’ has flaws. The film relies heavily on computer-generated effects, often overshadowing the practical effects used. This dependence on CGI results in creature models that range from intriguing to awkward, detracting from the overall experience. While the film pays homage to beloved creature features like ‘Jurassic Park’ the constant references can come across as imitation rather than inspiration, leaving viewers longing for something more original. Annoyingly, the unicorns were “voiced” far too much like the T-rex from the film.
The film’s pacing also falters in its first two acts as it attempts to balance sentimentality with humor. However, the final act bursts forth with a B-movie energy that embraces the chaos, delivering a satisfying blend of comedic violence and unexpected twists. This shift in tone showcases the film’s potential, making it clear that it can be genuinely entertaining when it fully leans into its absurdity.
‘Death of a Unicorn’ may stumble in its initial execution and rely on familiar tropes, but it ultimately provides a fun and engaging cinematic experience. The film’s comedic violence and outrageous moments keep the audience invested, mainly when Poulter is on screen. Viewing this at SXSW in the iconic Paramount Theater only enhances the experience, as the lively atmosphere of the festival adds an extra layer of excitement to the film. While it may not be perfect, “Death of a Unicorn” is a wild ride worth taking for anyone who enjoys a mix of humor, heart, and a touch of the bizarre.