New Movies: Unicorns (2024) by Sally El Hosaini, James Krishna Floyd: A Fearless & Vital Love Story in Full Bloom

Core Summary: Unlikely Love Challenges Identity and Cultural Norms

"Unicorns" (2024) is a groundbreaking British drama co-directed by Sally El Hosaini and James Krishna Floyd, who also wrote the screenplay. The film centers on an unexpected and transformative romance between Luke (Ben Hardy), a straight, working-class single father and mechanic from Essex, and Aysha (Jason Patel), a captivating British-Indian drag queen living a double life hidden from her conservative Muslim family in Manchester. Their chance encounter at an underground "gaysian" club sparks an undeniable connection, forcing both characters to profoundly question their identities, challenge societal labels, and navigate the complex intersections of love, family, and self-acceptance. The film premiered at TIFF 2023 and has been celebrated for its bold portrayal of queer cross-cultural romance.

Snapshot: Mechanic Meets Drag Queen; Worlds Collide, Identities Redefined

A single father's conventional life is upended when he falls for a captivating drag queen, sparking a queer, cross-cultural romance that forces both to confront hidden truths and redefine their identities against familial and societal pressures.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21451014/

Link Review: https://www.theguardian.com/film/article/2024/jul/06/unicorns-review-sally-el-hosaini-james-krishna-floyd-ben-hardy-jason-patel

About movie: https://protagonistpictures.com/film/unicorns/

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/unicorns-2024 (UK)

Deep Dive: The Colors of Love Beyond Labels

"Unicorns" has been a significant presence on the festival circuit and in independent cinema since its world premiere.

• Plot: Luke leads a seemingly ordinary, somewhat monotonous life as a mechanic and a single father. His routine includes functional, unfulfilling sexual encounters. His world changes dramatically when he stumbles into a vibrant, underground "gaysian" (gay Asian) nightclub in London. There, he is mesmerized by the stunning drag queen Aysha. Their initial connection is powerful, but complicated by Luke's assumption that Aysha is a cis woman. Upon discovering Aysha's male identity (Ashiq, a closeted man who works a dull retail job by day), Luke is initially conflicted but remains undeniably drawn to her. Aysha, meanwhile, faces her own set of challenges: maintaining her drag persona and queer life secret from her traditional Indian Muslim family in Manchester, dealing with rivalries and dangers within the drag scene, and the constant threat of exposure. As Luke begins driving Aysha to her gigs for extra cash, their relationship deepens. They offer each other a much-needed escape and a space to be truly seen. The film explores the nuances of their growing sexual chemistry and emotional bond, questioning whether traditional labels of "straight" and "queer" apply to their unique connection. The narrative delves into the sacrifices they might have to make to be together, touching on themes of family responsibility (Luke's son, Aysha's family) and the immense courage required to live authentically.

• Characters & Cast:

  • Ben Hardy as Luke: A 26-year-old straight, white, working-class single father from Essex. Hardy's performance has been highly praised for its vulnerability and the depth he brings to Luke's journey of self-discovery and evolving sexuality.

  • Jason Patel as Aysha/Ashiq: A mesmerizing British-Indian drag queen living a double life. Patel's breakthrough performance as Aysha, a "realism drag" queen (inspired by Bollywood's item girls, contrasting with Rupaul-style drag), is central to the film's allure and thematic richness. He embodies the duality of a performer and a dutiful son with remarkable skill.

  • Hannah Onslow as Emma: Luke's estranged partner and mother of his son, complicating his personal life.

  • Sagar Radia, Ali Afzal, Nisha Nayar, Val The Brown Queen: Other cast members who help to build the diverse and vibrant world of the film, particularly within the "gaysian" club scene.

• Genre and Style: "Unicorns" is primarily a Drama and Romance, with strong elements of Queer Cinema and Cross-Cultural Film. Its style is characterized by:

  • Raw and Empathetic: It handles complex themes of identity, sexuality, and cultural conflict with sensitivity and authenticity, avoiding sensationalism.

  • Vibrant and Nuanced: The film contrasts Luke's muted daily life with the vibrant, colorful world of the drag club, using visual storytelling to underscore their evolving relationship.

  • Character-Driven: The narrative is propelled by the internal and external struggles of Luke and Aysha, focusing on their emotional journeys and the authenticity of their connection.

  • Social Realism with a Romantic Heart: It grounds its love story in the gritty realities of working-class life and the challenges faced by queer individuals from conservative backgrounds, while maintaining a hopeful and tender tone.

  • Exploration of Fluidity: It subtly questions traditional labels, suggesting that love can transcend predefined sexual identities.

Director's Lens: A Collaborative Vision for a Trailblazing Romance

"Unicorns" is a unique co-directorial effort from seasoned filmmaker Sally El Hosaini and actor/writer James Krishna Floyd, who also wrote the screenplay. Their collaboration is deeply rooted in previous work, notably El Hosaini's acclaimed film "My Brother the Devil," in which Floyd starred.

• Sally El Hosaini: Known for her raw, authentic storytelling often focusing on characters on the margins of society and themes of identity and belonging ("My Brother the Devil," "The Swimmers"). Her experience in capturing nuanced human emotion and navigating complex social landscapes brings depth and authenticity to "Unicorns."

• James Krishna Floyd: As both writer and co-director, Floyd's personal insights into the South Asian queer experience (having conducted extensive research within the "gaysian" community) are central to the film's authenticity and trailblazing nature. This is his directorial debut, informed by his acting background and deep understanding of character.

• Collaborative Synergy: Their combined strengths allow for a film that is both emotionally resonant and structurally robust, blending El Hosaini's directorial vision with Floyd's deeply personal script. The film's unique perspective on a cross-cultural, queer romance is a testament to their shared vision.

Central Themes: Identity & Self-Discovery, Forbidden Love, Cultural Clash, Authenticity vs. Expectation, and Family Duty

• Identity & Self-Discovery: Both Luke and Aysha embark on journeys of profound self-discovery, questioning who they are, who they love, and who they want to be.

• Forbidden Love/Unconventional Romance: The central relationship challenges traditional notions of sexuality and cross-cultural boundaries, pushing against societal norms.

• Cultural Clash/Intersectionality: The film explores the complexities of being a queer individual within a conservative South Asian Muslim family, highlighting the unique pressures and dichotomies faced by Aysha.

• Authenticity vs. Expectation: The characters grapple with the tension between living their true selves and fulfilling familial or societal expectations.

• Family Duty: Both Luke (as a father) and Aysha (as a son to a traditional family) are bound by significant family responsibilities that complicate their personal desires.

Why It Shines: A Tender, Bold, and Timely Queer Romance

• Groundbreaking Narrative: It offers a fresh and rarely seen perspective on queer romance, particularly a cross-cultural relationship involving a drag queen and a seemingly straight man.

• Exceptional Performances: Ben Hardy and Jason Patel deliver "divine" chemistry and deeply layered performances, with Patel receiving a BIFA nomination for his breakthrough role.

• Authentic & Empathetic Portrayal: The film handles its sensitive themes with sincerity, offering an empathetic look at complex identities and relationships without resorting to stereotypes.

• Visually Engaging: It contrasts the mundane with the vibrant, colorful world of the drag scene, making for a visually dynamic experience.

• Critical Acclaim: A high Rotten Tomatoes score and multiple festival awards attest to its quality and impact.

Sally El Hosaini and James Krishna Floyd's 2024 film, Unicorns, is a British drama that explores a unique cross-cultural romance. The film centers on Luke (Ben Hardy), a working-class single father and mechanic from Essex, and Aysha (Jason Patel), a British Indian drag queen from Manchester who is living a double life, hiding her true self from her conservative Muslim family. Their unexpected encounter in a vibrant "Gaysian" club scene sparks an emotional journey of self-discovery and questioning of identity for both characters. The film premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival and saw its UK and Irish theatrical release in July 2024.

Awards & Nominations: Critically Acclaimed and Festival Honored

Unicorns has received significant recognition since its premiere, particularly within the independent film and LGBTQ+ cinema circuits.

The film was nominated for seven British Independent Film Awards (BIFAs) in 2024, showcasing its strong standing in British cinema. Among these nominations were Breakthrough Performance for Jason Patel (who ultimately won one of the Breakthrough awards at BIFA), Best Original Music, The Douglas Hickox Award (Best Debut Director for James Krishna Floyd), Best Debut Screenwriter, Best Costume Design, and Best Joint Lead Performance. It also secured a BIFA win for Best Make-Up & Hair Design. Beyond the BIFAs, Unicorns won both the Special Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the 2024 Dinard Festival Of British & Irish Film. Its world premiere was in the prestigious Special Presentations program at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, followed by official selections at other notable festivals including the BFI London Film Festival, Sydney Film Festival, and Palm Springs International Film Festival. This strong showing at festivals and the numerous BIFA nominations highlight the film's critical acclaim and its impact within the industry.

Critics' Reception: A Tender, Trailblazing Queer Romance

Critics have largely embraced Unicorns, praising its sensitive and unique portrayal of a cross-cultural queer romance, its strong performances, and its bold exploration of identity within underrepresented communities.

• Awards Daily (Joey Moser): Moser offers a highly positive review, declaring Unicorns "unlike anything you've ever seen, because we have never thought of honoring a drag love story in such a balanced way." He hails it as "such an important piece of new queer cinema," emphasizing its fearless and vital contribution to the genre.

• Time Out: This review gives the film 4 out of 5 stars, calling it a "powerhouse acting debut electrifies this rich drag story of fluid desire." It notes the film's "gentler love story" compared to other queer thrillers, while still containing "moments of ruthless conflict." It particularly praises Jason Patel's "warm-hearted and witty" performance for stealing the show and the "delicate direction" from El Hosaini and Floyd.

• City AM (Adam Bloodworth): Giving it a 4-star rating, Bloodworth calls Unicorns an "era-defining LGBTQ romance" that feels "thoroughly and thrillingly fresh." He commends James Krishna Floyd's lived experience for helping create "one of the most fresh pieces of LGBTQ representation in film," particularly exploring "working class bisexuality and the 'Gaysian' drag queen culture." The chemistry between Ben Hardy and Jason Patel is also highlighted as "fizzing."

• FILMHOUNDS Magazine: This review describes Unicorns as a "beautifully tender narrative" and a "refreshingly romantic tale between two men." It notes that the film applies the classic Hollywood romantic drama formula (meet-cute, dating, complication) to a queer relationship, which is "often never applied... in a film of this level." Both Hardy and Patel are lauded for their "tremendous" and "powerful" performances.

• Sorry, Never Heard of It! (Blog): While this review finds the plot "a bit by-the-numbers" and some characters "one-dimensional" (other than Aysha), it still concludes that Unicorns is "one of the better LGBT films released at the cinema in recent years." It praises the film's "brilliantly stylised," "fantastic cinematography," and a soundtrack that immerses the viewer. The "grounded story and acting" are noted for making it feel "very real."

• Empire: This review calls Unicorns a "compelling if formulaic star-crossed lovers' narrative." It acknowledges the "undeniable chemistry" between Luke and Aysha but suggests that the individual characters are "more compelling than the sum of their parts," and the dynamic of their romance "retreads familiar ground." However, it appreciates the film's exploration of "self-expression and the definition of family protection."

Overall, critics largely celebrate Unicorns as a significant and heartwarming contribution to queer cinema, particularly for its tender and authentic portrayal of a romance between a straight-identifying man and a drag queen. The film's strength lies in its exploration of identity, family, and acceptance within both working-class British and South Asian queer communities, enhanced by strong lead performances and a visually engaging style. While some minor criticisms mention formulaic plot points or underdeveloped supporting characters, the consensus is that Unicorns is a powerful, fresh, and deeply human love story.

Reviews: An Unforgettable Journey of Love and Self-Acceptance

Audience reactions to Unicorns have been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers deeply connecting with the film's themes of unexpected love, self-discovery, and the challenges of identity in diverse cultural contexts.

• General Audience Sentiment (from social media and industry chatter): Audiences are largely captivated by the "undeniable bond" between Luke and Aysha, finding their journey to be "tender and heartfelt." Many viewers resonate with the film's message of self-acceptance and finding belonging, especially in communities where one might feel unseen. The film is often described as "emotional," "beautiful," and "important."

• Representation for "Gaysian" Community: For many, particularly within the "Gaysian" (gay Asian) community, the film offers groundbreaking and much-needed representation. Audiences appreciate the "warm humanity" with which the filmmakers portray this subculture, highlighting both its vibrant energy and its underlying dangers. This specificity grounds the film while also universalizing its themes of identity.

• Emotional Impact and Relatability: Viewers are drawn into the characters' personal struggles, such as Ashiq's double life and Luke's questioning of his sexuality. The film's ability to show how love can "sneak into one's life" regardless of background or situation, as well as the characters' resilience in the face of "archaic societal norms," creates a powerful emotional resonance. As one review noted, the love story is arguably "more romantic, arguably more than most other heterosexual love stories to be released this year."

• Performances and Chemistry: The chemistry between Ben Hardy and Jason Patel is consistently praised by audiences, described as "uplifting" and "tremendous." Jason Patel's portrayal of Aysha/Ashiq is frequently singled out as a "powerhouse performance" that allows audiences to truly connect with the character's internal conflicts and desires.

• Visuals and Soundtrack: The film's "brilliantly stylised" visuals, "fantastic cinematography," and immersive soundtrack, particularly in the club scenes, have been noted by viewers as contributing significantly to the film's engaging atmosphere, making it a film that is easy to get lost in.

Overall, Unicorns resonates deeply with audiences as a heartfelt and authentic love story that transcends conventional boundaries. Viewers celebrate its courage in depicting an underrepresented queer romance and its exploration of identity, family, and acceptance. The compelling performances and emotional sincerity make it a truly memorable and impactful cinematic experience for many.

Box Office Performance: Independent Success and Platform Reach

"Unicorns" is an independent co-production, indicating its financial success will be measured by its critical reception, festival presence, and digital/platform distribution.

• UK Release: Released in the United Kingdom on July 5, 2024, by Signature Entertainment. It garnered an international box office of $39,601 as of July 24, 2024.

• US Release: Scheduled for a limited theatrical release in the United States on July 18, 2025, by Cohen Media Group.

• Streaming Acquisition: Netflix acquired the film for UK distribution in November 2024, indicating significant streaming potential and wider audience reach in that territory.

• Festival Platform: Its TIFF premiere and subsequent festival awards have significantly boosted its profile and aided in securing distribution deals.

• Critical Word-of-Mouth: Strong reviews and an "important" label for queer cinema will likely drive its audience through word-of-mouth and targeted marketing.

Production Notes: An International Indie Collaboration

• Directed by: Sally El Hosaini, James Krishna Floyd

• Written by: James Krishna Floyd (original screenplay)

• Main Cast: Ben Hardy (Luke), Jason Patel (Aysha/Ashiq), Hannah Onslow (Emma), Sagar Radia, Ali Afzal, Nisha Nayar, Val The Brown Queen.

• Genre: Drama, Romance, LGBTQ+

• Country of Origin: United Kingdom, United States, Sweden (co-production)

• Language: English

• Runtime: Approximately 1 hour 59 minutes (119 minutes)

• Music by: Stuart Earl

• Cinematography: David Raedeker

• Editing by: Iain Kitching

• Production Companies: Maven Screen Media, River Road Entertainment, Chromatic Aberration, Film i Väst, Filmgate Films, FFilm Cymru Wales, Cambridge Pictures Co., Off Media, Sayers & Sayers Productions, Notorious Films, Cohen Media Group (US distributor/financier), Signature Entertainment (UK distributor).

• Executive Producers: Stephen Daldry (among others).

• Consultant & Executive Producer: Asifa Lahore (Britain's first Muslim drag queen).

• Filming Dates: Commenced Fall 2022.

Production Company: A Global Independent Endeavor

"Unicorns" is a collaboration between numerous independent production and financing companies across the UK, US, and Sweden, including Maven Screen Media, River Road Entertainment (known for 12 Years A Slave, Brokeback Mountain), and Chromatic Aberration. This multi-national independent production model highlights a commitment to diverse storytelling outside of major studio systems. The involvement of experienced producers and executive producers like Stephen Daldry (a renowned director himself) further underscores the film's artistic ambition and quality.

Sales & Distribution: From Festival Darling to Global Platforms

• World Premiere: Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2023 provided the initial global showcase.

• UK Distribution: Signature Entertainment handled the UK theatrical release on July 5, 2024, followed by a Netflix acquisition for UK streaming.

• North American Distribution: Cohen Media Group acquired North American rights, scheduling a limited theatrical release in the US on July 18, 2025.

• International Sales: CAA (Creative Artists Agency) handles US sales, and various European distributors (e.g., Angel Distribution in Denmark) are bringing it to their respective territories.

• The multi-faceted distribution strategy, combining festival exposure, limited theatrical runs, and major streaming platform deals, aims to maximize the film's reach for its targeted audience.

Release Timeline: 2023 Festival Debut, 2024 UK Release, 2025 US Release

• World Premiere (TIFF): September 8, 2023.

• UK Theatrical Release: July 5, 2024.

• US Limited Theatrical Release: July 18, 2025.

• UK Streaming (Netflix): November 2024.

• Global Rollout: Ongoing throughout 2024 and 2025 for other territories.

Why See It: For a Relatable Exploration of Desire

If you are a fan of:

• Progressive Queer Cinema: Films that push boundaries and explore LGBTQ+ identities in new and nuanced ways.

• Romantic Dramas with Depth: Stories that delve into complex relationships and emotional transformations.

• Cross-Cultural Narratives: You appreciate films that examine the intersection of different cultural backgrounds and identities.

• Strong Performances: You seek out films where the lead actors deliver compelling and memorable portrayals.

• Thought-Provoking and Trailblazing Stories: You want to see cinema that is bold, relevant, and challenges conventional norms.

Why Watch: If You Crave Passion and Psychological Intrigue

Watch it if you're drawn to stories where:

• Love transcends labels: The film questions predefined sexual identities and celebrates love in its most authentic forms.

• Characters live double lives: It explores the tension between public personas and private realities, particularly in the context of family and culture.

• Identity is fluid and evolving: The protagonists undergo significant personal growth and self-discovery through their relationship.

• The emotional stakes are high: Family expectations, societal pressures, and personal desires create compelling conflict.

• You want to be moved by a unique romance: It offers a fresh and heartfelt perspective on love in the modern world.

Movie Trend: The Expanding Spectrum of Queer Narratives & Cross-Cultural Authenticity

"Unicorns" exemplifies the significant movie trend of expanding and diversifying queer narratives beyond traditional coming-out stories. It delves into the complexities of sexual fluidity, drag culture, and the specific challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals within conservative cultural contexts (like the British-Indian Muslim community). This film also contributes to the trend of authentic cross-cultural storytelling, where films are increasingly exploring the nuanced realities of hyphenated identities and the intersections of different backgrounds within contemporary society.

Social Trend: Questioning Labels and Embracing Fluidity

The film powerfully resonates with the contemporary social trend of questioning rigid labels and embracing fluidity in identity and sexuality. As younger generations increasingly define themselves outside of traditional boxes, "Unicorns" provides a timely cinematic reflection of this evolving understanding. It encourages audiences to look beyond superficial categories and appreciate the inherent complexity and individuality of human connection. Furthermore, by portraying a queer Muslim character, it touches upon the ongoing discourse around intersectionality within marginalized communities and the importance of visibility for diverse identities.

Final Conclusions: A Brave and Beautiful Odyssey of Love and Self-Truth

"Unicorns" (2024), co-directed by Sally El Hosaini and James Krishna Floyd, stands as a truly significant and tender cinematic achievement. At its heart, it's a trailblazing romance between Luke, a straight single father, and Aysha, a British-Indian drag queen, whose unexpected connection forces them to navigate a labyrinth of societal expectations, family duties, and their own evolving identities. With remarkable authenticity and a vibrant visual style, the film boldly explores themes of sexual fluidity, cross-cultural understanding, and the profound courage required to live truthfully. Propelled by outstanding performances from Ben Hardy and Jason Patel, whose chemistry is undeniable, "Unicorns" transcends its specific premise to offer a universally resonant message: that love, in its purest form, knows no labels and demands an unwavering embrace of one's authentic self, no matter the cost. It is a vital and deeply moving piece of new queer cinema that deserves to be seen and celebrated.

Recommendations for Filmmakers: Crafting Intimate Truths and Unseen Narratives

• Embrace Authentic Representation in Diverse Love Stories: Filmmakers should actively seek to portray love stories that challenge conventional norms and reflect the true diversity of human experience. "Unicorns" exemplifies how a courageous and empathetic approach to queer, cross-cultural romance can be both groundbreaking and universally resonant. By casting actors who can authentically embody these nuanced identities and relationships, filmmakers can create cinema that is both specific and broadly appealing, fostering greater understanding and representation on screen.

• Dive Deep into Character Transformation: Focus on character arcs that involve significant self-discovery and transformation. The journeys of Luke and Aysha in "Unicorns" show how protagonists grappling with internal and external pressures can create compelling drama. Filmmakers should explore how relationships can act as catalysts for profound personal change, allowing characters to shed societal expectations and embrace their authentic selves. This depth of character exploration creates a more impactful and memorable viewing experience.

• Utilize Visuals to Convey Duality and Emotion: Think creatively about how visual language can underscore thematic elements. "Unicorns" effectively uses contrasting visual styles – the mundane and the vibrant – to highlight the different worlds characters inhabit and the emotional shifts they undergo. Filmmakers can learn to use cinematography, production design, and costuming to communicate deeper meanings, particularly when exploring themes of hidden lives, identity, and the tension between public and private selves.

Recommendations for the Movie Industry: Championing Bold Narratives and Inclusive Voices

• Invest in Trailblazing Queer and Cross-Cultural Cinema: The industry should continue to actively fund and champion films that push the boundaries of queer narratives and explore the complexities of cross-cultural identities. "Unicorns" demonstrates the critical and audience demand for stories that reflect the evolving understanding of sexuality and identity, especially within diverse communities. Supporting such projects not only enriches the cinematic landscape but also serves as a vital form of representation and social commentary.

• Foster Co-Directorial Partnerships for Unique Perspectives: Encourage collaborative directorial models, particularly when they bring together diverse perspectives and expertise, as seen with Sally El Hosaini and James Krishna Floyd. This can lead to richer storytelling and a more nuanced exploration of complex themes, especially when a writer-director is deeply ingrained in the subject matter. Such partnerships can unlock creative synergies that might not be possible with a single directorial voice.

• Recognize the Commercial and Cultural Value of Authenticity: Beyond critical acclaim, authentic and empathetic storytelling, particularly in underrepresented areas, holds significant commercial potential, as shown by streaming acquisitions. The industry should prioritize authenticity in casting, writing, and direction, understanding that genuine representation resonates deeply with audiences and can lead to wider engagement and a dedicated following. This also fulfills a crucial cultural role in fostering empathy and broadening worldviews.

Final Conclusions: A Brave and Beautiful Odyssey of Love and Self-Truth

"Unicorns" (2024), co-directed by Sally El Hosaini and James Krishna Floyd, stands as a truly significant and tender cinematic achievement. At its heart, it's a trailblazing romance between Luke, a straight single father, and Aysha, a British-Indian drag queen, whose unexpected connection forces them to navigate a labyrinth of societal expectations, family duties, and their own evolving identities. With remarkable authenticity and a vibrant visual style, the film boldly explores themes of sexual fluidity, cross-cultural understanding, and the profound courage required to live truthfully. Propelled by outstanding performances from Ben Hardy and Jason Patel, whose chemistry is undeniable, "Unicorns" transcends its specific premise to offer a universally resonant message: that love, in its purest form, knows no labels and demands an unwavering embrace of one's authentic self, no matter the cost. It is a vital and deeply moving piece of new queer cinema that deserves to be seen and celebrated.