Nico the Unicorn

Nico the Unicorn is a heartwarming family film from 1998 featuring a fantastic performance from young Canadian actor Kevin Zegers. Based on a novel by Frank Sacks, who also wrote the film’s screenplay, the story radiates a magical charm that captures both the beauty of nature and human kindness.

The film tells the tale of Billy Hastings, an 11-year-old boy played by Zegers, who is recovering from the scars both physical and emotional, after a car crash he and his mother faced. After the death of his father, his mother, Julie, portrayed excellently by Anne Archer, moves them to a small, rural town in Vermont hoping for a fresh start. As Billy is trying to adjust to their new life, an inseparable bond is fostered when he chances upon a young but severely hurt pony at an auction.

Their story takes an enchanting turn when the pony becomes pregnant and gives birth to Nico, a baby unicorn. Nico is no ordinary unicorn, manifesting a true fairy-tale charm, unusually fast growth, and radiant, mythical beauty, bringing a magical joy and wonder to rural Vermont, and testing Billy's courage and wisdom on a journey of friendship and responsibility.

Amidst the dreamlike enchantment, the film doesn’t withdraw from the harshness of life. Struggling with his disability, school bullies, and the struggles of keeping Nico's true identity a secret, Billy's character evolution is not only compelling but inspirational. Kevin Zegers gives a stirring performance, emanating innocence, strength, and resilience, seamlessly capturing the essence of his character.

Neige, the horse playing Nico, delivers a scintillating performance, portraying the charm, grace, and mesmerizing beauty that one would expect from the mythical creature known as a unicorn. Pierre Chagnon, in his role as carnival owner Gaston Gagnon, offers an additional layer of conflict and intrigue to the film, enhancing the story's depth.

Anne Archer as Billy's mother, Julie, embraces her role beautifully. As a struggling single mother attempting to rebuild life after a devastating loss, she brilliantly comes across as a rock of support to Billy. Her astounding performance combines sternness with tenderness and a desperate need to keep her son safe while allowing him to live out his magical adventure.

The beautifully photographed landscape of Quebec, where the film was shot, serves as an impeccable backdrop for this magical tale. The scenic beauty not only contributes to the visual appeal of Nico the Unicorn but texturizes the film with a dreamlike aura that suits its storyline.

Despite its family-friendly fantasy stylings, Nico the Unicorn does not shy away from exploring profound themes such as grief and loss, the trials and tribulations of a single parent family, bullying, animal rights and conservation, and the stress of keeping a world-shattering secret. The film deftly balances these darker complications with its magical narrative, resulting in a narrative flow that is simultaneously enchanting and thoughtful.

Elisha Cuthbert and Michel Perron accompany the lead characters in supporting roles, adding nuance to the film. The dialogue in Nico the Unicorn is sincere and warm, often leaning on a sentimentality that is appropriate given its magical themes and demographic.

Director Graeme Campbell, known for his adept handling of family-oriented plots, weaves the elements of reality and fantasy effortlessly. The film's pacing is exemplary, balancing the slower, delicate moments of bonding between Billy and Nico, and the tension-laden sequences with an expert hand.

Rated PG, Nico the Unicorn is a delightful movie that trails along the path of fantasy and reality, offering viewers a unique blend of both worlds. This film’s unique charm lies in its ability to engage both children and adults, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome family movie night. The music by Milan Kymlicka enhances the overall ambiance of the film, harmonizing with the narrative pacing, and setting the mood throughout.

Nico the Unicorn is more than just a tale of a boy and his unicorn. It’s a poignant story that highlights the power of resilience, the importance of friendship, the significance of protecting and respecting nature, and the magic that often hides within the most ordinary moments of our lives. A cinematic gem that wraps up fantasy, adventure, emotions, and life lessons into one captivating package, this film invites viewers into a magical world while still keeping its hooves firmly planted in the trials and tribulations of everyday life.