When I sat down in the theater to see “The Drama,” I had no idea what to expect. Because the creators of the film intentionally shared very information while promoting it, my knowledge was limited to Zendaya having a leading role. Luckily, I was in for a treat.
“The Drama,” released April 3, centers around Emma (Zendaya) and her fiancé Charlie (Robert Pattinson). A week before their wedding, the couple, along with their best man and maid of honor, decide to reveal the worst things they have ever done. After the maid of honor, Rachel (Alana Haim), reveals she locked her neighbor in a shed in the woods, Emma drunkenly declares that her “worst thing” was when she planned a school shooting in high school. After this shocking news was dropped at dinner, Charlie must confront a life-altering question: should he still marry Emma, or is this admission unforgivable?
While this movie was not necessarily the uplifting weekend watch I may have hoped for, its complex, unpredictable and touching plot still captivated me. There were numerous occasions where my mouth hung open in disbelief after plot twists were thrown at me. At one point near the end of the film, Charlie makes an impulsive decision after talking with his co-worker Mischa (Hailey Gates) about his situation with Emma. While my heart initially broke for him, his action shocked me. I think my gasp could be heard throughout the theater.
I also enjoyed how emotionally complex “The Drama” was, which I think was in part due to the impressive acting in the film. Zendaya and Pattinson embody the characters of Emma and Charlie so beautifully. This is exemplified in the scene when Charlie and Emma are rehearsing their wedding dance. There are not many words exchanged, yet it’s easy to understand the love the two characters have for each other. I could practically feel the vulnerability radiating off the screen.
Additionally, Zendaya and Pattinson develop emotional layers within their characters. Their portrayals demonstrate that Emma and Charlie are complicated people who can’t be categorized. One would think Emma’s character is immediately hateable, because planning a school shooting is unforgivable; however, just like Charlie, I didn’t immediately walk away. Emma’s story is complex. My heart felt for her and her struggle.
Although the plot is generally not cheerful, there are some notable comedic moments. One particular scene comes to mind, specifically when Emma and Charlie have a meeting with their wedding photographer. The photographer keeps saying the word “shoot,” which clearly disturbs the couple. It is so awkward, which is what makes that scene so funny. Charlie’s outfits also made me laugh. At one point he’s wearing dress shoes, a dress shirt and these disturbingly tiny shorts. It was during a really emotional scene, but I just couldn’t focus on the deep conversation occurring because I was questioning his credibility with that particular outfit choice.
I was incredibly impressed with “The Drama.” I found the emotionally intense scenes very engaging, and the acting is superb. I appreciated how connected I felt with the characters, as well as the unexpected nature of the plot. I can sincerely say that this movie is unlike any movie I’ve ever seen, and I know I will be rewatching it very soon.
Published and digitized April 2026.
