A24, the independent entertainment company known for its distinct and often genre-bending films, is gearing up for a fantastical 2025 with two highly anticipated releases: “The Legend of Ochi” and “Death of a Unicorn.” While “The Legend of Ochi,” a fantasy adventure, is set to enchant audiences in February, “Death of a Unicorn” promises a darkly comedic and increasingly unsettling experience when it premieres in the spring. The newly released trailer offers a glimpse into the film’s intriguing premise and tonal shifts, setting the stage for a unique blend of humor and horror.
“Death of a Unicorn” centers around a seemingly ordinary father-daughter road trip that takes a decidedly extraordinary turn. Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega star as the unfortunate duo who accidentally strike and kill a mythical creature – a unicorn. This unexpected event sets off a chain reaction, drawing in the father’s wealthy and opportunistic boss, played by Richard E. Grant, and his family. The allure of the unicorn’s magical properties and the potential for profit quickly overshadows any initial remorse, setting the stage for a darkly comedic exploration of greed and exploitation.
The trailer initially establishes a lighthearted and humorous tone, reminiscent of a quirky family road trip comedy. However, as the implications of the unicorn’s death and the potential exploitation of its magical powers become clearer, the atmosphere takes a palpable shift. The comedic elements begin to intertwine with a growing sense of unease and suspense, culminating in a series of increasingly disturbing and horror-infused visuals towards the trailer’s conclusion. This tonal shift suggests that “Death of a Unicorn” will not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
“Death of a Unicorn” marks the directorial debut of Alex Scharfman, who has assembled a talented cast including Will Poulter, Sunita Mani, and Téa Leoni alongside Rudd, Ortega, and Grant. Adding to the film’s pedigree is the involvement of Ari Aster, the acclaimed director of “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” as a producer. Aster’s presence lends a sense of anticipation and suggests that the film will delve into the psychological and unsettling themes that have become his trademark. Further amplifying the film’s horror credentials is the contribution of legendary composer John Carpenter, whose iconic scores have defined the genre for decades.
The combination of Scharfman’s fresh perspective, the talented cast, Aster’s producing influence, and Carpenter’s musical contributions creates a compelling cocktail of talent and creativity. The trailer’s intriguing blend of humor and horror, coupled with the underlying themes of greed and the exploitation of the natural world, suggests that “Death of a Unicorn” will be a thought-provoking and potentially unsettling cinematic experience. A24’s track record of supporting unique and challenging films further reinforces the anticipation surrounding this upcoming release.
“Death of a Unicorn” promises to be more than just a darkly comedic take on a fantastical premise. It appears to be a multi-layered exploration of human nature, the allure of power, and the consequences of our choices. The film’s tonal shifts, from lighthearted humor to unsettling horror, suggest a complex and potentially disturbing narrative. As the film’s spring release approaches, anticipation builds for what is shaping up to be a unique and memorable addition to A24’s already impressive catalog.
