In a surprising turn of events, A24's latest film, Death of a Unicorn, starring Jenna Ortega and Paul Rudd, has underperformed at the box office, raising concerns about the future of its leading actress. The film, which debuted to mixed reviews, grossed only $5.7 million during its opening weekend, falling short of expectations despite its intriguing premise and star-studded cast.
Death of a Unicorn tells the story of Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd), a mild-mannered corporate lawyer, and his college-aged daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega). Their road trip takes a bizarre turn when they accidentally hit a baby unicorn with their rental car, leading to an unexpected journey filled with dark comedy and emotional depth.
Critics have noted that while the film may not have captured the audience's attention as anticipated, it does possess an emotional core that sets it apart from typical monster flicks. As director Alex Scharfman explained, the film evolves from a satire about mythical creatures into a commentary on greed and the darker impulses of the pharmaceutical industry.
Despite its unique approach, the film has faced challenges in connecting with audiences. With its quirky humor and unconventional storytelling, it seems to have missed the mark for many viewers. This has left Ortega's upcoming project, Hurry Up Tomorrow, under scrutiny as well. Like its predecessor, this film is another risky venture that could further impact Ortega's reputation as a bankable star.
In Hurry Up Tomorrow, Ortega stars alongside Barry Keoghan and The Weeknd, playing an insomniac musician on the brink of a nervous breakdown. The film's blend of musical elements with psychological thriller aspects raises questions about its commercial viability, especially following the disappointing performance of Death of a Unicorn.
Ortega's recent success with Beetlejuice 2 had positioned her as a rising star, but the back-to-back box office disappointments could signal a troubling trend for her budding career. Critics have noted that while Death of a Unicorn may not be a commercial success, it offers a fresh take on the horror-comedy genre, showcasing Ortega's talent in a challenging role.
The film's narrative weaves together elements of dark comedy, fantasy, and horror, creating a unique viewing experience. Rudd and Ortega's performances have been praised for their emotional depth, bringing vulnerability to their characters amidst the film's absurdity. The unicorn, initially a victim, becomes a metaphor for the greed and desperation of the characters surrounding it, particularly the wealthy corporate figures played by Richard E. Grant and Téa Leoni.
While the film's box office performance is disappointing, it has sparked discussions about its themes and the underlying messages regarding corporate excess. Critics have pointed out that the film's chaotic tone and blending of genres may have contributed to its struggle to resonate with mainstream audiences.
As A24 continues to experiment with genre storytelling, Death of a Unicorn stands as a testament to the studio's commitment to pushing boundaries, even if it doesn't always result in commercial success. The film's unique premise of a killer unicorn, coupled with its critique of the pharmaceutical industry, sets it apart in a crowded market.
Ultimately, Death of a Unicorn may not have achieved blockbuster status, but it offers a worthwhile exploration of emotional themes and societal critiques. As Ortega prepares for her next project, the industry will be watching closely to see if she can rebound from this setback and reclaim her status as a leading actress.
With the mixed reception of Death of a Unicorn and the uncertainty surrounding Hurry Up Tomorrow, Ortega's path in Hollywood remains a topic of interest. As audiences grapple with the film's bizarre narrative and emotional stakes, one thing is clear: the journey of Jenna Ortega is far from over.
