THE DRAMA – Review by Susan Kamyab
Have you ever dared to ask yourself, what’s the worst thing you have ever done? In the new dark comedy, The Drama, the answer rocks the lives and upcoming nuptials for a happily engaged couple that now questions everything. Writer/director, Kristoffer Borgli brings audiences a twisted romantic tale that’s sure to inspire some tough conversations.
Robert Pattinson and Zendaya play Charlie and Emma, a newly engaged couple who are just a week away from their wedding. As they are sampling food and several glasses of wine with their best friends, the four of them light-heartedly discuss “the worst things they have ever done”. The evening quickly turns sour when Emma reveals a dark past. Friendships are broken, and the seemingly solid foundation between a blissful couple begins to crack. This raises a thought-provoking question of whether you can truly love every version of your partner?
When you start to think about it, there are probably a lot of things we did, especially in our younger days, that we are not proud of. And you would like to believe that the worst thing we did in our past would not define who we are today. What brilliantly originated from this catalyst is the reaction. Though all four friends share something terrible, three of the confessions are merely laughed off. Emma’s admission stops the laughter and ignites anger, particularly from her friend and maid of honor, Rachel (played by Alana Haim). Even though Rachel’s revelation is almost just as unsettling. Emma receives no support or understanding. While it was Emma who reveals this part of herself, she is ashamed of, Charlie is the one who is wrecked by it.
Fair warning, this is not a romantic comedy. Do not expect 27 Dresses energy. It’s a heavy drama with comedic notes about a romantic relationship. This film is bleak, witty, organized chaos that’s cringey, but digestible thanks to the sensational performances by the entire cast and the riveting, unforgettable premise that is sure to stay with audiences all year long.
