Unicorns

From the writing to the directing to the acting, this was a phenomenal piece of cinema! A beautiful love story with the clash of worlds handled so beautifully it wasn't the usual clichéd nonsense. Absolute credit to the actors, especially Ben and Jason, they were incredible. Fully fleshed out characters that were flawed, damaged, believable and you couldn't help but root for them. All ensemble actors did they're job so beautifully as well, not a single weak link in the casting. Hats of to the Director for bringing this incredible story to life. And yes, I'm aware I keep saying incredible but that is just what this film was. Couldn't look away from start to finish. Well done to everyone involved.

Luke is a mid-20s white man in London, divorced, with custody of his 5-year-old son, working as a mechanic in his father's garage. One night, he stumbles upon a south Asian nightclub, meets alluring woman Aysha, and they kiss, before he realizes that "she" is a drag queen.

Aysha feels an interest in Luke, and also needs a driver to drive her to various gayasian events where she performs. She tracks down Luke, and he agrees to the job because he needs the money. However, this develops into at least a friendship, as they do other things together, like sing karaoke.

So here are two people who are divided by race, culture, religion (Aysha's family in Manchester is Moslem), sexual orientation, and gender identity. Can they overcome all these differences, and be each others' unicorns?

I saw this at the world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, where the director said he was inspired by an out British Asian drag queen. He noted that South Asian drag was realistic rather than glamorous, and a certain number of the background characters were actual drag queens in their customary attire.

UNICORNS is a breathtaking exploration of identity and connection, beautifully woven through the lives of its diverse characters. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant South Asian nightclub scene, the film delicately navigates the complexities of self-discovery and acceptance. The performances are mesmerizing, drawing you into the emotional journeys of the main characters. Their unlikely encounter sparks a profound exploration of their own identities and desires, creating a narrative that is both tender and powerful. The cinematography captures the energy and intimacy of their world, enhancing every heartfelt moment. UNICORNS is not just a film; it's a celebration of authenticity and the courage to embrace one's true self. A masterpiece that lingers in your thoughts long after the credits roll.

Unicorns is a very authentic feeling queer love story that delivers two compelling lead characters with some great performances behind them.

The story carries a few surprises but for the most part is quite understated and poignant. What I really like is that it doesn't try to over complicate or explain things about sexuality. It just focuses on the characters and their relationship and it makes the queer element of it feel quite authentic and real.

There aren't too many bells or whistles to the film making, and it does feel a bit long for what it is. Those are minor criticisms though of what is an otherwise very poignant and intriguing film.

Not enough media centres around the gaysian community, so this was very refreshing and juxtaposed against the world of a working class/white "macho" man - Unicorns was really effective. Maybe It could've been *more* effective, but that wasn't a necessity to make a good movie - I was just really intrigued in this clash of cultures that I wanted more.

Ben Hardy was brilliant imo. It's quite surprising that beyond X-Men Apocalypse he didn't really fly much higher in Hollywood, though maybe he actually is better suited in these indie-type gems.

Jason Patel was beautiful as Aysha/Ashiq. This is the first I've ever seen him, and he was captivating. I always struggle hearing my own local accents on movies (!) so I'll let others judge his acting haha. But I enjoyed his performance.

As I'm greedy, I think this would've been perfect as a mini series - but watch it!