Death of a Unicorn: A Darkly Hilarious Ride into Mythical Mayhem

The trailer opens with Elliot (Paul Rudd) and his teenage daughter Riley (Jenna Ortega) embarking on what seems like a mundane road trip. Cue the unexpected: they accidentally run over a unicorn. Yes, you read that right—a unicorn. This whimsical mishap sets off a chain of events leading them to a secluded retreat hosted by Elliot’s eccentric billionaire boss, Dell Leopold (Richard E. Grant). The plot thickens as the unicorn’s magical properties become the object of exploitation, and things spiral into darkly comedic chaos.

However, as they delve deeper, they face unforeseen consequences, including the wrath of the unicorn’s kin. The film looks to masterfully intertwine elements of dark comedy and horror, creating a narrative that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Meeting the other side of a Unicorn, Source; A24

Paul Rudd as Elliot: Our everyman hero, Rudd brings his signature charm and wit to the role of a father caught in an increasingly bizarre situation.

Jenna Ortega as Riley: Ortega’s portrayal of a sharp-witted teenager adds a fresh dynamic, showcasing her versatility following her success in Wednesday.

Richard E. Grant as Dell Leopold: Grant embodies the quirky billionaire whose obsession with the unicorn’s powers drives much of the film’s conflict.

Téa Leoni: Details about her character remain under wraps, but Leoni’s involvement hints at a performance that balances humor and depth.

Will Poulter: Known for his dynamic roles, Poulter’s character is anticipated to add another layer of intrigue to the ensemble.

Anthony Carrigan: With a knack for playing eccentric characters, Carrigan’s role is sure to be memorable.

Sunita Mani: Mani’s comedic timing is expected to shine, contributing to the film’s dark humor.

A black comedy ensemble line up that dreams are made of, Source: A24

Alex Scharfman makes his directorial debut, bringing a fresh perspective to the genre with his unique blend of dark comedy and supernatural elements.

The film boasts a powerhouse producing team, including Ari Aster, known for his work on Hereditary and Midsommar, ensuring a blend of horror and humor.

The legendary John Carpenter, along with Cody Carpenter and Daniel Davies, provides a score that promises to elevate the film’s eerie and comedic tones.

Death of a Unicorn is slated for a spring 2025 release, with the exact date yet to be announced. The film has already generated significant buzz, thanks to its unique premise, star-studded cast, and the involvement of industry heavyweights behind the scenes. Given A24’s track record of delivering critically acclaimed and genre-defying films, expectations are sky-high.

In a cinematic landscape saturated with sequels and reboots, Death of a Unicorn stands out as a refreshingly original offering. Its blend of dark humor, supernatural elements, and a stellar cast makes it one of the most anticipated films of 2025. Whether you’re a fan of comedy, horror, or simply looking for something off the beaten path, this film promises to deliver.

So, gear up for a wild ride into the woods where myth meets reality, and keep an eye out for unicorns—both on the road and on the big screen.

For a sneak peek into the madness, check out the official trailer below: