Unicorn Store

Brie Larson’s Whimsical Directorial Debut: The Story Behind Unicorn Store

Brie Larson’s Unicorn Store (2017) is a film that defies easy categorization—part quirky comedy, part surreal fantasy, and entirely a passion project for the Oscar-winning actress-turned-director. Larson not only stars as Kit, a struggling artist who receives a mysterious invitation to adopt a unicorn, but also makes her directorial debut with the film. latestnetflix.com's read is that the result is a divisive, candy-colored oddity that has sparked conversations about artistic ambition, Netflix’s role in indie cinema, and Larson’s own creative risks.

A Labor of Love (and Unicorns)

Larson’s journey to directing Unicorn Store wasn’t a sudden leap but a deliberate evolution. The script, written by Samantha McIntyre, had been floating around Hollywood for years before Larson attached herself—not just as an actress but as a champion of the project. In interviews, Larson has described the film as deeply personal, reflecting her own struggles with adulthood and the pressure to conform . She even called it "inspiring" during its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2017, framing it as a story about embracing one’s inner weirdness .

The film’s production wasn’t without challenges. Larson has recounted the experience of directing her first feature in a lighthearted but candid "storytime" video, where she joked about the chaos of balancing acting and directing—including moments of self-doubt and the sheer exhaustion of wearing both hats . Yet, her enthusiasm for the material is palpable. In a separate interview, she emphasized the importance of creating a supportive set environment, particularly for women in film, and described Unicorn Store as a project that allowed her to explore vulnerability in storytelling .

Netflix’s Gamble (and the Backlash)

Unicorn Store was originally set for a theatrical release, but after struggling to find a distributor willing to take a risk on its unconventional tone, Netflix acquired the rights. The streaming giant positioned it as a quirky, feel-good comedy, but the reception was far from unanimous. Some critics and audiences found the film’s whimsy grating, with one YouTube commentary bluntly titled "Everyone Hates Unicorn Store - Brie Larson and Netflix Did An Oopsie" . The film’s mixed reviews—including a modest 5.5/10 rating on SensCritique based on over 2,000 votes—highlighted the divide between those who embraced its offbeat charm and those who dismissed it as self-indulgent .

Larson, however, has stood by the film’s vision. In her TIFF interview, she framed Unicorn Store as a necessary counterpoint to the cynicism of modern storytelling, arguing that it was "important to have a movie that is about joy and wonder" . Whether or not audiences agreed, the film’s existence on Netflix ensured it found an audience—even if that audience was niche.

The Cast: A Surreal Ensemble

Larson assembled a talented ensemble to bring Unicorn Store’s bizarre world to life. Samuel L. Jackson plays the enigmatic "Salesman," a role that leans into his signature charisma while subverting expectations. Joan Cusack delivers her usual sharp, deadpan humor as Kit’s mother, while Bradley Whitford and Mamoudou Athie round out the supporting cast with their own brand of offbeat energy .

The chemistry among the cast is one of the film’s strengths, particularly in scenes where the absurdity of the premise collides with grounded, relatable emotions. Larson’s real-life friendship with some of her co-stars (including Athie) reportedly contributed to the film’s warm, collaborative atmosphere . Still, the film’s tone—oscillating between childlike wonder and existential dread—proved polarizing, with some viewers finding it too saccharine and others praising its bold refusal to conform.

Legacy: A Cult Favorite in the Making?

Nearly seven years after its release, Unicorn Store remains a curiosity. It’s not a film that dominates conversations about Larson’s career, nor is it a mainstream success. Yet, it has carved out a small but devoted following, particularly among fans of offbeat indie cinema. The film’s trailer, which leans heavily into its surreal, pastel-drenched aesthetic, has racked up millions of views on YouTube, suggesting that its visual style resonates even if the narrative doesn’t .

For Larson, Unicorn Store was a stepping stone. She has since directed other projects, including the 2019 drama The Messengers and episodes of Lessons in Chemistry, but Unicorn Store remains her most personal directorial effort to date. Whether it’s remembered as a misfire or a hidden gem may depend on who you ask—but it’s undeniably a testament to Larson’s willingness to take creative risks, even when the odds (and the unicorns) are stacked against her.