Romantic dramedy The Drama has been the topic of conversation for around a week or so due to the themes in which it tackles. Despite this unfortunately spoiling the surprises the movie has up its sleeve for plenty of potential cinema-goers, it has also piqued a lot of interest. The irony of a movie titled ‘The Drama’ being under the microscope for its controversial plot isn’t lost on viewers, and perhaps might even make it stand out more during Easter Weekend. Directed by Kristoffer Borgli (Dream Scenario), The Drama stars Robert Pattinson (The Batman) and Zendaya (Dune) as a happily engaged couple on the brink of marriage. Their relationship, and surrounding friendships, are put to the test when a huge secret is revealed, sending their wedding week off the rails. Asking intriguing questions whilst making us uncomfortably laugh in the process, The Drama is a fresh, unique rom-com headed by two incredible central performances.
It’s hard to discuss a movie that hinges on a secret being revealed without entering spoiler territory, and even harder to discuss a topic so controversial. It’s best to enter The Drama as blind as possible, if you’re able to avoid spoilers, as the places it dares to go may shock you. The script, written by Borgli, asks many questions that most of us couldn’t even fathom considering. Do we ever really know someone as well as we think we do? Does past behaviour change current feelings? Can someone ever really change? And, most importantly, is my partner dangerous? Because it dares to ask these questions, The Drama feels completely fresh and unique in both its subject matter and approach. The themes at play are dark and dangerous, leaving you wincing as you consider all the possible outcomes, but there’s a comedic nature to it that draws you in. Flitting between uncomfortable arguments and pitch black humour, it plays out like a ticking time bomb ready to go off. At any second, information could be revealed, someone could kick off, and everything can be ruined. Leaving you on the edge of your seat throughout every second of its fast-paced 105 minute run-time, The Drama is equal parts captivating and uneasy, balancing its tones perfectly. Forcing you to put yourself in the characters shoes, it puts an incomprehensible moral dilemma front and centre.
It’s not just the writing that helps The Drama impress and stand out, but the filmmaking in general. Adopting a show, don’t tell approach elevates it to incredibly high heights, with clever editing that reveals things at the exact right moment. The team meticulously place flashbacks and snippets of information on the screen to evoke a response, whether that be laughter or surprise. It fills in the blanks before we even notice that we’re missing pieces of information, ensuring we’re fully informed on every aspect of the story. No stone is left unturned here, we’re forced to live every awkward detail alongside our characters. Music is expertly used to bring back memories, reminding us of the couples simpler times despite the fact we’ve only known them for a short hour. The juxtaposition of romantic, rom-com-esque tracks against the original score that widely mimics that of a thriller makes for a deliciously dark audible experience. Composer Daniel Pemberton turned in yet another fantastic score just weeks after audiences fell in love with his Project Hail Mary accompaniment. The cinematography is also notable, bringing us incredibly close to our characters in an immersively uncomfortable manner. Every aspect goes hand-in-hand to bring this riveting story to life.
The cherry on top here are Robert Pattinson and Zendaya as our not-so-happy couple, Charlie and Emma. Showcasing excellent chemistry whether they’re infatuated with each other, making love, arguing, awkwardly navigating wedding planning or even occasionally fearing one another, the pair work well to sell us the emotions required to get behind the story. Similarly to his recent turn in Mickey 17, The Drama allows Pattinson to showcase his more playful side, reminding viewers of his excellent, underrated comedic timing. Taking on the stress of Charlie with believability and ease, it’s another turn that proves to audiences he’s the real deal. The soon-to-be bride Emma is no easy character to master, yet Zendaya manages it seemingly effortlessly. Despite the films comedic tone, there is much emotion behind this character as she desperately tries to cling on to her life and stop it from imploding, and Zendaya ensures you feel sorry for her character, even when you’re not sure if you should. The pair are good both separately and together, taking on their different characters arcs well whilst convincing us of their status as soulmates. The supporting cast are also fantastic, notable turns being delivered by Mamoudou Athie (Elemental) and Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza) as the besties of the engaged couple.
The Drama undeniably deals with a controversial topic, which may leave some viewers with a sour taste in their mouths. However, the excellent performances, effective comedy and engaging think piece of a script are likely to impress many others. Offering a truly unique experience that’s best seen with a crowd, The Drama is brilliantly equal parts uncomfortable and hilarious. Pattinson and Zendaya are at their best here, selling you this story with ease. You may not love it, but it will definitely spark conversation.
Grade: B+
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The Drama
A happily engaged couple is put to the test when an unexpected turn sends their wedding week off the rails.
