Photo by www.polygon.com
Unicorn of Controversy: Inside Netflix’s Viral Song “Here Comes the Cud” from Thelma the Unicorn
In the whimsical world of Netflix’s new animated movie, “Thelma the Unicorn,” a tale of fame, friendship, and funky music unfolds in a riot of colors and catchy tunes. At the heart of the story lies an unlikely duo: Thelma, a pony disguised as a unicorn, and Danny Stallion, a social media influencer with a penchant for regurgitating cud for his adoring followers.
As Thelma chases the elusive dream of stardom, her manager Vic Diamond, played with comedic flair by Flight of the Conchords’ Jemaine Clement, concocts a plan to boost her online presence. Enter Danny Stallion, the embodiment of every over-the-top influencer rolled into one, complete with an arsenal of eye-catching antics and viral-worthy content.
The stage is set for a collaboration that is equal parts bizarre and captivating. Thelma, initially hesitant to deviate from her powerful rock ballads, finds herself thrust into the world of manufactured pop music, where algorithms dictate the hits and yacht-set music videos reign supreme. The result? “Here Comes the Cud,” a disgustingly catchy earworm that is as synthetic as it is irresistible.
Directors Jared Hess and Lynn Wang masterfully weave together elements of satire and social commentary as they explore the dark side of fame and the music industry. Thelma’s journey from authenticity to commercialization is both humorous and poignant, a reflection of the pitfalls of modern-day celebrity culture.
With a soundtrack that oscillates between soulful rock ballads and absurdly catchy pop tunes, “Thelma the Unicorn” is a visual and auditory feast that will leave audiences laughing, grooving, and pondering the nature of authenticity in an increasingly digital world. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be enchanted by the magical world of Thelma and her neon-colored adventures. After all, in the age of influencers and algorithms, a little dose of whimsy might be just what we need.
