Death of a Unicorn, the debut feature from writer-director Alex Scharfman, ventures into the realm of dark satire, blending mythical elements with a critique of the ultra-wealthy. The film premiered at the SXSW Film Festival on March 9, 2025, and is slated for a wider theatrical release on March 28.​

The narrative follows corporate lawyer Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd) and his disenchanted daughter, Ridley (Jenna Ortega), as they journey to a retreat hosted by Elliot’s billionaire employer, Odell Leopold (Richard E. Grant). En route, a sudden accident leads to the discovery of a unicorn, setting off a chain of events that intertwine greed, mythical lore, and survival.​

Critics have offered varied perspectives on the film:​

The Guardian highlighted the film’s ambition but noted that it “falls short due to lackluster CGI and unconvincing commitment to its theme.” ​
theguardian.com

Roger Ebert’s website commended the ensemble cast, particularly Anthony Carrigan’s portrayal of Griff, but mentioned that the film “doesn’t connect all its thematic dots,” especially concerning the exploration of grief. ​

Bloody Disgusting appreciated the film’s novel concept but felt that “the road getting to the gory action is a bumpy one,” with character likability posing challenges. ​

Discussions among viewers reflect a spectrum of opinions. Some audience members found the film to be a “corny-horny blast,” while others felt that its inherent silliness lacked the necessary self-

Death of a Unicorn presents a unique premise that melds satire with mythical horror. While the execution has garnered mixed reviews, the film offers an intriguing addition to the “eat-the-rich” genre, inviting audiences to experience its blend of dark humor and fantastical elements.​

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