The Unicorn

The Unicorn is a charming indie comedy released in 2018 by the Orchard production company, under the expert hands of director Robert Schwartzman. The film holds captivating performances by Lauren Lapkus, Nicholas Rutherford, and Lucy Hale.

At the heart of the narrative are Malory (Lauren Lapkus) and Caleb (Nicholas Rutherford), a long-time engaged couple who find themselves at a critical juncture in their relationship. Faced with their upcoming nuptials, they decide to take some time to live life more spontaneously before settling down and to validate whether they truly are soulmates.

Their desire for adventure is amped up during a visit to Palm Springs for the 25th wedding anniversary of Malory's parents. The couple stumbles upon a secret of enduring marital bliss, which piques their interest and they decide to delve a little deeper. This secret serves to heighten their endurance to the forthcoming adventures, adding more color and flavor to their journey.

One of the film's standout performances is by Lucy Hale, who plays Jesse, a free-spirited woman they encounter on their journey. She manages to give Jesse a genuine vivacity that grabs the audience's attention. Jesse’s character contributes to the plot by adding a layer of exterior influence that challenges Mallory and Caleb's relationship dynamic.

The Unicorn puts an exciting and comical spin on an otherwise traditional romantic comedy. It explores the complexities within a long-term relationship and the anxieties revolving around marriage. The chemistry between Lapkus and Rutherford is evident throughout the movie. They depict the natural awkwardness and inherent love within their characters, creating genuine empathy with the audience. This gives The Unicorn an authentic feel, an aspect that distinguishes it within its genre.

The writing by Nick Rutherford, Kirk C. Johnson, and Will Elliott is quirky and full of sharp humor, laced in an undeniably sweet warmth. The dialogue is fresh, and an extensive part of the film's allure draws from its ability to convey distinctly funny moments without them ever seeming forced.

The Unicorn blends the awkwardness of pre-marital jitters with humorous charm, the juxtaposition of which results in a laugh-out-loud scenario that engages audiences from start to finish. At its core, the film is about self-discovery and the willingness to step outside one's comfort zones. The Butterfly metaphor used in the title ‘The Unicorn’ refers to their hunt for a unique, magical experience that's set to change their lives forever.

Schwartzman executes the perfect balance between humor and heart throughout the film, making the most of an ensemble with great comic timing. Dominantly set in the scenic locations of Palm Springs, the film also does an excellent job of encapsulating the sun-soaked allure of Southern California.

The movie effortlessly raises the subject matter of escapism from one's mundane life and entering a redolent fantasy envisaging a transformative adventure. What sets The Unicorn apart from most of its genre counterparts is its ability to maintain a comforting equilibrium between comic timing and heartfelt moments.

The Unicorn is a delightful exploration of a couple's adventure narrated in perfectly timed comedic beats complemented by top-notch performances. Lauren Lapkus and Nicholas Rutherford give performances that are both charmingly awkward and emotionally vulnerable, creating an authenticity that is refreshing in a romantic comedy. With a backdrop of Palm Springs, stunning vistas added a scenic charm to this humorous tale of love and self-discovery.

In conclusion, The Unicorn is an entertaining romantic comedy. Its unique plot takes you on a wild road trip filled with laughter, strange encounters, and heartfelt moments which will keep you hooked till the end. Perfect for any fan of indie cinema, this film delivers a fun, quirky, and heartwarming story about love, personal growth, and the lengths people will go to keep their relationships vibrant.