Robert Pattinson and Zendaya appear in “The Drama.” (A24)
By Jade Enos
Would you still love someone if you discovered they had done something terrible? That question drives “The Drama,” directed by Kristoffer Borgli and starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson.
What begins as a light romantic comedy about a couple preparing for their wedding quickly shifts into a disturbing, compelling story about redemption and unconditional love — and what happens when someone is not who you thought they were.
The film follows Emma and Charlie during the week of their wedding. At a dinner with friends, the group shares the worst things they have ever done to “build a stronger bond.” When Emma reveals a deeply disturbing confession, Charlie is shaken and forced to question everything he thought he knew about her — and whether he still wants to spend his life with her.
Zendaya delivers a layered performance that keeps viewers questioning Emma’s true nature, while Pattinson grounds Charlie with realism. Alana Haim stands out as a subtle antagonist, adding tension and complexity. Each character feels fully realized, contributing to the film’s emotional weight.
Borgli’s direction creates a constant sense of unease. The cinematography is subtle but effective, using framing, color and movement to mirror the characters’ discomfort. The editing is precise, using jump cuts, J-cuts and cross-cutting, while allowing certain scenes to linger to heighten tension. A low, looming bass in the sound design undercuts even lighter moments, reinforcing the sense that something is about to go wrong.
The script is sharp, weaving satire into its exploration of relationships, morality and radical acceptance. Dialogue feels natural, often uncomfortable and anxiety-inducing. However, the pacing falters in the final act, which feels rushed and does not fully explore the ideas it introduces.
At its core, “The Drama” examines love, trust and the complexity of human relationships. It raises difficult questions about whether people can truly change or start over. The film also touches on heavy subject matter, including school violence, which may be triggering for some viewers.
Emotionally, the film is intense. Every scene is charged with tension, and the unpredictability keeps viewers on edge. It lingers long after the credits, sparking necessary conversation.
Despite a weak final act, the film succeeds in delivering a thought-provoking and unsettling experience.
Overall, “The Drama” is a divisive but fascinating look at redemption and unconditional love. It is not for everyone, but it is worth watching for those who appreciate challenging, uncomfortable storytelling.
Rating: 8/10
Viewers should consider checking content warnings before watching.
