Death of a Unicorn blurs horror with satire

Jenna Ortega shines in a dark comedy that critiques the pharmaceutical industry through unicorns.

Death of a Unicorn offers a gory twist on big pharma satire

Death of a Unicorn is a horror-comedy that turns the beloved unicorn trope on its head. Directed by Alex Scharfman and featuring Jenna Ortega and Paul Rudd, the film portrays unicorns as fearsome beasts rather than whimsical creatures. Set against a backdrop of corporate greed, the narrative takes a dark turn as a widowed father and his estranged daughter discover the dangers of their magical encounter. The film critiques the big pharma industry, revealing the monsters that lurk behind the scenes. Despite some entertaining moments, the visuals and plot could have been stronger.

While Death of a Unicorn attempts to blend horror and social commentary, it often falls short. The film’s critique of the pharmaceutical industry is timely, yet the execution lacks depth. Ortega delivers a commendable performance, but the overall impact is diluted by predictable humor and uneven pacing. This movie could have been a sharp satire, but it sometimes feels more like a missed opportunity than a compelling critique.

Highlights

This movie highlights how horror can be used to reflect societal issues, though it could have been bolder in its message.