Unicorns

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 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.

It's not a mundane story about being gay and different cultures, it expresses more about identities. And the script and dialouge are not boring at all. Each character is hella interesting, I can't help but wish to figure out more about them. The right amount of angst throughout and to be honest, I was expecting a sad or maybe bizarre ending but no it has a satisfying one. I mean, I don't want be cliched but seriously though I'm not big fan of gloomy closures. The actors were great and I'm not just talking about two main leads, the supporting actors and actresses had also done their parts so well and naturally. The dancing, the costumes, the setting, I love them all. Overall it was such a fun watch.

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.

What a lovely movie, the trailer did not represent the gritty British move you will receive. Its a beautifully written film which just dark enough. Unicorns is lifting the curtain on a world many of us never see. You will ride a slow rollercoaster through this film, watching how an unexpected friendship grows. Luke is a 'geeza' a single dad and a mechanic, Ayisha a Gaysian Drag queen. The characters are thrust together as Ayisha needs a driver and Luke needs cash, their friendship and how it grows has been told in a way only certain filmmakers manage. Bravo

Both main actors were brilliant whoever cast them was bang on.