By Mahnoosh Arsalan
Staff Writer
With daunting ceremonious bell tolls, families flying in from all over the world and realizing one must spend the rest of their life with someone, it’s natural for couples to get pre-wedding jitters. Kristoffer Borgli takes that idea to a whole new level, cordially inviting audiences to his latest film, “The Drama.”
Starring Robert Pattinson and Zendaya, “The Drama” follows a couple in the final week before their wedding finding out harrowing truths about each other, derailing their big day and leaving their future uncertain. This dark comedy poses the question, how well do couples really know each other, and what are we, as humans, truly capable of?
Without spoiling the film, “The Drama” discusses an extremely important and relevant topic in America. Borgli does a good job at not making this harmful subject insensitive or presented as a joke. While the film does have its humorous, ridiculous moments, it’s still able to tell a tale on American culture and how it impacts young minds. It was very interesting to see Borgli make a film on such a sensitive subject, it was very well done.
One very notable component of this film is its unique composition. The way each shot is paced and filmed tells a story within itself, letting the audience in on each character's thoughts, past, future and more. The styling of this film also allows the audience to grow with the characters, to feel what they’re feeling and to ultimately empathize. As the film goes on, it becomes more and more explosive.
The cinematography, along with styling, is an added bonus. “The Drama” is beautifully made, shot on 35mm film. This specific kind of film gave the movie a very old-style feeling, making it look warm and comforting despite its extremely serious and depressing context.
Another noteworthy feature of the film are the performances. Pattinson’s portrayal of Charlie was hilarious and raw. He truly encapsulated the fear in finding out his partner isn’t exactly who he thought she was, trying his best to hold himself together with immense external pressures. Additionally, Pattinson’s awkward physical acting allowed for some unpleasant scenes in the film, making the theater belly laugh.
Zendaya’s portrayal of Emma was emotional, ridiculous and authentic. Emma has been carrying a dark secret with her for almost her entire life, and has found a good life beyond her past. When that darkness comes back into her life, her reactions are complex. Be prepared to see Emma throw up from guilt and anxiety at least two times in this film.
Mamoudou Athie plays Mike, Charlie’s best friend, who is married to Rachel, played by Alana Haim. Mike and Rachel completely turn on Emma once her secret is revealed, encouraging Charlie to do the same. Athie’s portrayal of Mike was very humorous, and his support for Charlie and Rachel was unwavering.
Haim’s portrayal of Rachel was extremely interesting. Rachel especially turns against Emma due to personal trauma, making the entire wedding experience even more nightmarish for the soon-to-be bride and groom. Rachel is a complex character, as she represents someone who is rightfully questionable of Emma yet extremely hypocritical in her behavior.
“The Drama” is a high-stress, emotional and strangely funny story. It induces a gargantuan amount of second-hand embarrassment to the audience and keeps them at the edge of their seats.
