Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Director: Brie Larson

Starring: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Joan Cusack

Last Friday, Netflix rolled out a new indie film called Unicorn Store that combines whimsical childhood fantasies with the harsh reality of the adult world. Brie Larson and Samuel L. Jackson are back together again after Captain Marvel in this eccentric coming of age tale that also serves as Larson’s directorial debut. The movie details the life of failed art student, Kit, after she moves back home and takes a temp position at an office job. Despite suppressing her colorful personality under layers of grey suits and cups of black coffee, she still gets the opportunity of a lifetime to turn her childhood dream of owning a unicorn into a reality. Unicorn Store is a perfectly packaged glimpse into the relationship between childhood fantasies and the real world and a must see on Netflix.

The success of this movie is driven by the lighthearted nature of it. So many films nowadays discuss heavy subject matter, and although it is important to highlight these issues, sometimes I just want a movie about something fun and lighthearted. Unicorn Store is a little rainbow gem of mundane, carried by childhood dreams and emotions that could not have come at a better time. Its ‘glimmer of hope’ and ‘everything will work out in the end’ message is perfect for de-stressing during this time of the school year as we near closer and closer to AP Exams, regular exams, and then off to college for the senior class. The movie still carries weight, but it is a different kind than a movie about disaster or death. It’s the kind of weight that only comes from nostalgia and reflection on childhood. So be comforted in the fact that this movie is incredibly more fun and eccentric than most modern films, but still have your tissues ready if a wave of nostalgia decides to strike.

Another appealing feature that this film delivered on were the vibrant colors that painted almost every scene. It was easy to get immersed in this colorful world as it serves as an escape from the humdrum reality that surrounds us. Although the plot might seem a little strange at first, the eclectic script, bright colors, and sensational setting make this movie well worth the watch.

Overall, Unicorn Store is a wonderful coming of age story that is certain to delight anyone. If you try not to take this movie too seriously then you will enjoy it for what it was intended to be: a slightly strange yet just as lovable reflection on childhood. And as a senior, I am thankful for this little rainbow colored, glittered time capsule of youth as it made me think back to my own childhood. So if you need to be hit with a wave of nostalgia in 2019, check out Unicorn Store on Netflix.