The Drama (15)
Directed by Kirstoffer Borgli
★★★★☆

 

FROM the director of Dream Scenario comes another surreal and mind-blowing film which starts off as a classic rom-com before transforming into something completely different which will leave you reeling — and debating — for days. 

The Drama follows a happily engaged couple, played by Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, whose union is tested following a shocking confession which sends their wedding week off the rails. However, the bride’s revelation during a boozy food tasting session for the nuptials with the groom, the best man and the maid of honour in tow, isn’t the worse secret that is revealed that night. It begs the question what darkest admission would be the deal breaker in your union. 

Writer-director Kirstoffer Borgli’s film provides a fascinating examination of relationships and emotional chaos as well as a thought-provoking look at one of US society’s fundamental issues. 

Zendaya and Pattinson are outstanding as their characters’ growing tension, and spiralling high anxiety, is reflected by the deliberate use of sound and the frantic editing, courtesy of Borgli and Joshua Raymond Lee, which keeps you off kilter and wondering what is real and what is imagined. The A list pair ground the film with their complex and convincing powerhouse performances as a couple questioning each other as they start losing control.  

Provocative and audacious, and with a high cringe factor, it lives up to its title but there is so much more to this dramedy than you are led to believe at first. It is a difficult film to define as it is a mash-up of different genres which leads to a finale from hell which will have you grimacing and squealing at the screen. 

It is one of those rare films that will surprise you as it reportedly aims to provoke debate and discussion, which I have no doubt it will.  

This is definitely a must see but best to know as little as possible beforehand.

In cinemas April 3