“What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done?” While this is a question that most would prefer not to answer, the new movie, “The Drama,” which stars Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, revolves around this very question. Set in Boston, Massachusetts, the movie depicts Zendaya as Emma Harwood and Pattinson as Charlie Thompson, who are a young couple about to marry. However, their plans are soon shaken after a shocking revelation—the worst thing Emma has ever done.
Going into the movie, I understood from the trailer that Zendaya’s character had revealed something to Pattinson, which would serve as the major conflict of the film. However, I definitely did not expect the direction in which the movie went. While I will not spoil what exactly it is that Emma has done, I will say that the issue raised is both thought provoking and relevant to many high schoolers today.
My favorite part of this movie was Zendaya. While I am biased because I love her acting in every project she has ever taken part in, I do believe her role in “The Drama” is a standout. Pattinson’s role as Charlie was also well performed and was another highlight of the film. His portrayal of a near nervous breakdown was quite convincing. I certainly felt his intense worry as the movie progressed.
Second to the acting, I found the film’s dark humor to be masterfully executed. Though the topics explored in the movie are extremely serious, my friend and I found ourselves laughing at subliminal jokes throughout the film’s duration. Even the most grave scenes were laced with humor, which contributed to the watching experience. While I did find some of the pacing in the movie somewhat slow, I think that the use of dark humor accelerated the film and brought it back some life.
My biggest critique of the film is perhaps its promotion. Throughout its press junket, trailers and promotional posters, “The Drama” is marketed as a romantic comedy. While I do enjoy a good plot twist, I do think that much of the film’s content may be triggering for some movie watchers who expected to watch a lighthearted film. While in the beginning of the film there are inklings that something may be amiss between Emma and Charlie, the sharp switch to the movie’s true plot is quite jarring. To me, “The Drama” is more of a psychological horror movie masked as a rom-com, which can be both fun or problematic depending on the individual.
Overall, I would recommend “The Drama” to others. However, I do caution potential audience members to be prepared for the movie’s turn of events and to think critically of the movie’s themes, which are undeniably worthy of discussion.