A24’s Upcoming Horror Comedy: A Contender for 2025’s Major Sleeper Hit

A24 could be on the verge of introducing one of 2025’s most surprising successes with their upcoming film, Death of a Unicorn. The studio has made a name for itself by crafting films that elegantly bridge the gap between independent cinema and blockbuster appeal. Their lineup includes notable titles like Hereditary, Civil War, and Everything Everywhere All at Once, showcasing a trend of delivering distinctive and imaginative genre films that stand out in the last decade. The recently released trailer for Death of a Unicorn indicates that this film might just join the ranks of A24’s finest offerings.

The Intriguing Premise of Death of a Unicorn

The story revolves around a father-daughter duo, portrayed by Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega, who accidentally strike a unicorn with their car. This peculiar incident draws the attention of a pharmaceutical company, leading to an investigation into the unicorn’s remains. Although the initial premise may evoke images of a family-friendly adventure, the trailer reveals a much darker narrative—a horror comedy brimming with gore, as the unicorn’s grieving parent seeks vengeance against its killers. Additionally, the film boasts a score from horror legend John Carpenter, known for his work on Halloween and The Thing.

A24’s Unique Approach to Genre

Riley (Jenna Ortega) astonished by a unicorn in Death of a Unicorn.

A24 excels at transforming seemingly absurd concepts into compelling narratives. While a movie about a killer unicorn might initially seem suited for low-budget productions, Death of a Unicorn promises sharp dialogue and a captivating premise. The plot thickens as it’s revealed that the unicorn’s horn possesses cancer-curing capabilities, piquing the interest of pharmaceutical CEO played by Will Poulter. This discovery has enormous implications for humanity, but Poulter’s character is clearly motivated by self-interest rather than altruism.

Watch the trailer here

Rather than aiming for outright horror, Death of a Unicorn is devised as a satirical critique, making a statement about wealthy families who attempt to exploit an innocent creature for personal gain. While this subtext may not be subtle, it sets the stage for an entertaining finale where audiences can revel in the poetic justice served as the vengeful unicorns enact retribution upon the greedy.

The Star-Studded Cast of Death of a Unicorn

Tea Leoni’s Triumphant Return

The ensemble cast of Death of a Unicorn gazing down at the unicorn.

The impressive cast further signifies the potential quality of Death of a Unicorn. In addition to Rudd and Ortega—who is enjoying a surge in popularity after her recent role in Beetlejuice—the film features accomplished actors such as Richard E. Grant, Anthony Carrigan from Barry, and Jessica Hynes. Notably, this project marks Tea Leoni’s return to film after a lengthy hiatus of 14 years, her last appearance being in the 2011 comedy Tower Heist.

While the film’s core concept might not resonate with everyone, A24’s track record suggests that the material has depth. The studio has consistently attracted stellar talent, reinforcing the notion that there is substance behind the quirky premise. Nevertheless, it remains possible that some viewers might be put off by the bizarre premise.

Every Jenna Ortega Horror Movie	Release Year
Insidious: Chapter 2	2013
The Babysitter: Killer Queen	2020
Scream	2022
Studio 666	2022
X	2022
American Carnage	2022
Scream VI	2023
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice	2024

While titles like Snakes on a Plane show how misleading premises can lead to only average success, A24’s proven ability to curate intriguing projects, combined with its talented cast, makes it likely that this Jenna Ortega-led venture will fare much better. Death of a Unicorn has the potential to become a surprise horror sensation when it hits theaters in 2025.

A24’s Commitment to Quality and Variety

Diverse Portfolio for All Tastes

A24 may not have achieved the blockbuster status of franchises like Marvel, but that has never been their objective. Their standout film, Everything Everywhere All at Once, grossed an impressive $143 million globally and garnered critical acclaim, including multiple Academy Awards, with Michelle Yeoh winning Best Actress. This film encapsulates A24’s ethos, blending various genres into a unique experience.

Whether it’s emotional dramas like Lady Bird and Moonlight, unsettling horror in films such as Midsommar and Talk to Me, or innovative narratives like The Killing of a Sacred Deer and Under the Skin, A24’s catalog has something for everyone.

Like any studio, A24 has its missteps, including titles like False Positive and Slice. However, the studio maintains an impressive track record, continuously pushing creative boundaries, even in less successful films. As anticipation builds for Death of a Unicorn, there’s a strong belief that this film will meet the high expectations set by A24, especially with its inventive premise, stellar cast, and a score by John Carpenter. There’s every expectation that it will be an exhilarating cinematic experience.

Source: Box Office Mojo

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