Unicorn Store (2019) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The story is set in two contrasting locations: the whimsical Unicorn Shop, a magical place where dreams can come true, and the protagonist's family home, a traditional setting marked by the pressures of daily life and work commitments. The Unicorn Shop serves as the central fantastical location where the protagonist Kit confronts her aspirations and identity.

• unicorn shop
• family home
• setting
• locations

Unicorn Store takes place in a contemporary, modern setting that reflects current societal pressures around education and career expectations. The story unfolds in the present day, showcasing a young adult's struggle against contemporary family dynamics and personal growth challenges.

• contemporary
• modern
• time period
• present day

The Unicorn Shop represents a magical, whimsical space where dreams can become reality. It serves as a metaphorical playground for self-discovery, contrasting sharply with the mundane pressures of everyday adult life. The shop promises fulfillment of childhood fantasies and symbolizes the possibility of embracing imagination even as an adult.

• unicorn shop
• symbolism
• magical place
• fantasy

The film explores three major themes: self-discovery, where the protagonist learns to embrace her uniqueness; family relationships, highlighting the tension between parental expectations and supporting a child's dreams; and creativity versus conformity, addressing the struggle to maintain artistic aspirations against societal and workplace pressures.

• themes
• self-discovery
• family
• creativity
• conformity

Kit (played by Brie Larson) is a young, imaginative college student whose artistic aspirations are challenged when she faces academic failure. Her journey through depression and self-discovery forms the emotional core of the story, as she learns to value her authentic self despite external pressures from family and work.

• kit
• brie larson
• protagonist
• main character

The Salesman (played by Samuel L. Jackson) serves as a catalyst in Kit's journey, guiding her toward her dreams and providing the opportunity to earn her own unicorn. His flamboyant personality adds a whimsical, theatrical layer to the narrative, challenging Kit to embrace her creativity and imagination.

• salesman
• samuel l jackson
• guide
• mentor

Gene (played by Bradley Whitford) is Kit's sexist boss at her temporary job who embodies the corporate pressures and workplace challenges she faces. His oppressive demeanor serves as a contrasting figure to Kit's artistic aspirations, highlighting the theme of conformity versus creative self-expression.

• gene
• bradley whitford
• boss
• workplace

Kevin (played by Karan Soni) is a vibrant character who introduces Kit to the Unicorn Shop and offers her a chance to redefine her life. His lively demeanor and supportive nature play a crucial role in Kit's journey toward embracing her true self and pursuing her dreams.

• kevin
• karan soni
• friend
• unicorn shop

The film highlights the tension between Kit's artistic aspirations and the realities forced upon her by work and societal norms. Through her struggle with her temporary job and family expectations, the movie underscores the importance of maintaining one's creative spirit while navigating adult responsibilities. The Unicorn Shop becomes a symbol of preserving imagination against Conformist pressures.

• creativity
• conformity
• artistic
• work
• dreams

Unicorn Store explores how Kit's return home reveals her parents' shortcomings in nurturing her creative dreams. The film showcases the importance of support and understanding in familial bonds, while also depicting how parental expectations can conflict with a child's individuality. The evolving family dynamic illustrates the challenge of balancing familial love with personal authenticity.

• family
• parents
• relationships
• support

Unicorn Store has a gentle, hopeful tone with a low-intensity narrative that focuses on character development rather than high-stakes drama. While it deals with real-world struggles like depression, a sexist boss, and familial disappointment, these emotional elements are framed within an ultimately positive and whimsical quest. The emotional weight is medium, balancing serious themes with a hopeful message about embracing one's authentic self.

• tone
• emotional
• hopeful
• whimsical
• mood