#REVIEW: “THE DRAMA”

Review by Amanda Gilmore for Mr. Will Wong

Is love truly unconditional? What if you learned the worst thing your partner ever did? Would you still love them? Writer-Director Kristoffer Borgli takes these questions and delivers a daring film that forces audiences to self-reflect. Those familiar with the Norwegian Filmmaker know Borgli enjoys tackling dark topics with pitch-black comedy. The Drama is no different.

Emma (Zendaya) and Charlie (Robert Pattinson) are a happily engaged couple planning their wedding. During a food and beverage tasting for their big day, they disclose the worst thing they’ve ever done. The cautious Charlie can’t think of anything worse than some cyberbullying he did as a teenager. Emma, on the other hand, has a chilling period from her past that anyone would consider disturbing. Her revelation puts their love to the test, sending their wedding off the rails.

The Drama is sure to spark conversation amongst viewers. Without exposing Emma’s secret, it is rooted in fears that Americans live with both past and present. Audiences will have a visceral reaction to the revelation. Borgli doesn’t shy away from Emma’s disturbing past but thoroughly utilises it to challenge viewers’ preconceived beliefs of love and this sombre American reality.

Borgli has full control over the story and direction, keeping the audience emotionally invested throughout. He excels at pushing the envelope and embracing the reality that The Drama will be divisive. For all his success with this Feature, his greatest might be his meticulous casting. Emma needs to be “likeable” for Borgli’s intention to succeed. It’s a challenging role that many Actors would run from. The fearless Zendaya brings her charming charisma and vibrant presence to Emma, forcing the viewer to navigate their moral compass.

Opposite the formidable Zendaya is the endearing Pattinson, who gives one of his finest performances as the anxiety-induced Charlie. Charlie’s careful, hyper-vigilant and easily ruminates. This revelation quickly sends him into an uncontrollable mental rabbit hole. His life turns to disarray as everything around him reminds him of Emma’s past. Editors Borgli and Joshua Raymond Lee perfectly capture the emotional chaos with sharp cuts, placing the audience into Charlie’s mind.

The Drama is one of the most complex viewing experiences so far this year. You won’t want to miss this whirlwind wedding extravaganza.

VVS Films release THE DRAMA on Friday, April 3, 2026.