If you’re an A24 fan, July 2025 is delivering the goods on HBO Max. Three new titles from the beloved indie studio have just dropped, offering a mix of dark comedy, psychological tension, and offbeat horror.
But let’s be honest—not every A24 release is a slam dunk. With Rotten Tomatoes ratings now out and critics weighing in, we have a better sense of which of these movies measure up to the A24 buzz… and which don’t. Here’s how they rank, from least disappointing to the one you need to binge immediately.
3. Opus
Even with its starry cast—John Malkovich, Ayo Edebiri, Young Mazino, and Amber Midthunder—Opus hasn’t quite measured up. Directed by Mark Anthony Green, the movie brings together cult horror and psychological terror, with echoes of Midsommar.
But the critics are not convinced. While Malkovich brings his trademark wacky genius, the movie itself comes off as aimless and hollow. At a chilly 40% on Rotten Tomatoes, Opus has been described as “largely forgettable” by Future and is best left to die-hard A24 completists.
2. Death of a Unicorn
With a strange premise and an A-list cast featuring Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega, Death of a Unicorn seems to be made for cult status. The movie begins with a father-daughter duo accidentally running down a unicorn with their car—yes, really—and things descending into gory, mythological madness.
The creature feature tries to go for dark satire, but according to critics, it cannot balance tones and present a coherent narrative. Still, there’s charm in the cast’s chemistry, and some fun to be had if you’re in the mood for something outlandish. It’s sitting at 54% on Rotten Tomatoes, which makes it a gamble—but not a total loss.
1. On Becoming a Guinea Fowl
The real standout this month is On Becoming a Guinea Fowl, a haunting yet darkly funny drama by director Rungano Nyoni. It’s her first film in nearly ten years, and the reception has been radiant.
At a rare 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is being hailed for its thoughtful examination of family secrets, loss, and denial—all stitched into a visually exquisite story.
The acting by Susan Chardy and Blessings Bhamjee might be from relatively lesser-known stars, but they pack a punch. Critics are labeling it one of A24’s strongest recent offerings, and it’s the emphatic must-see of the three.
If you’re sorting your weekend watchlist, start with On Becoming a Guinea Fowl—it’s the one that’s getting people talking.
Death of a Unicorn is worth a try if you’re in the mood for weird and wild, while Opus is probably best saved for a night when curiosity gets the better of you.