The Hidden Principles Within "The Death Of a Unicorn"

The first time I clicked on this movie, my expectations were nowhere near high. But I was astonished by how a simple story about a unicorn could contain so many philosophical reflections on humanity’s cruelty toward animals. Let’s dive in.

Jenna Ortega

First off, we all know how great of an actor she is, but it still fascinates me how she can thrive in every genre imaginable—it’s almost unbelievable. Most actors are known for certain roles or genres, but she’s done it all: romance, action, mystery, and more. Her performances are always outstanding, and in this film, she does an amazing job portraying a misunderstood teenager who, after losing her mother, is trying to prove to the world that she can stand on her own.

The Unicorn

As you probably guessed, the unicorn isn’t just a unicorn—it represents the purity of creation, exploited by humans throughout the film. It's a deeply symbolic figure, especially to the native tribe portrayed in the film’s artwork. The tarnishing of that image is what ultimately brings destruction. The film beautifully illustrates the fragile relationship between nature and the abuse it endures at the hands of humanity.

Humanity

The defining element of this movie is the portrayal of humans—specifically the family at its center. Early on, their individualistic flaws are on full display: the wealthy, ailing father who cares more about his health than his family, and the spoiled son who boasts about inventing his own path to wealth. But all of that fades when they discover that the unicorn’s blood can cure any disease. They begin exploiting the remains of the creature, ignoring the facts: it didn’t belong to them, it was a mythical being protected in a national conservation area, and most importantly, it had a family. Their greed and overconsumption ultimately led to their downfall, serving as a metaphor for human arrogance and disregard for the natural world.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this was a fantastic film. I would recommend it to anyone—even to those who might not immediately catch the deeper layers of awareness and meaning it offers beneath the surface.

NOTES FROM The Penguin