Toe Curling Anxiety in The Drama (2026) | Film Review

This film and its looming twist will undoubtedly divide audiences. Some will come away declaring the subject matter was approached far too insensitively and some will walk away stating it was a callous, cruel yet compelling approach to such a spine chilling topic. I would agree with the later, The Drama (2026) evokes toe curling anxiety, disconcerting twists and overall a generally unforgettable plot that left me with sweaty palms and bitten finger nails. The Drama (2026) promises a mysterious romantic comedy and for a while, it delivers just that, Zendaya and Robert Pattinson’s characters Emma and Charlie start at the peak of love but their bond quickly falls into chaos as we learn something catastrophic about Emmas’s past. This is a non-romantic rom-com, it is a darkly satirical commentary on societal and political issues, raising the question of, “does our past define us?” and “can we truly change or evolve?” 

Directed and written by Kristoffer Borgli, who brought us Sick of Myself (2022) and Dream Scenario (2023), two stories that toy with the concept of identity and perception. The Drama (2026) builds upon his previous work but in a more grounded approach, The Drama unfolds like reality, the events aren’t caricatured or dramatised but instead portray a believable approach to a terrible situation. The Drama is also produced by Ari Aster, which speaks volumes in its tonal shifts and subject matter, Ari strives to evoke the most disturbing thoughts, he relishes in discomfort and this film makes its audience squirm. 

Both Zendaya and Robert Pattinson are magnificently subtle, they both bring realism and naturalism to their roles. I believed they were madly in love, then I soon believe they are madly destructive and messy. They had satisfying characters to dive into, thought provoking and deeply disturbing moments to experiment and play with. This film felt like a natural progression for them both, they had amazing chemistry and they were able to bring comedy to dark moments and successfully portray the balance of serious topics with ludicrous imagery. Without a cast this strong, the film could have been a huge failure, they brought the concept to life.  

I think, to truly appreciate this film for all its worth you should go in with nothing. The subject matter is disturbingly surprising and prepare yourself for a wash of unease and discomfort but do not spoil the twist for yourself because the reveal is remarkably and astonishingly concerning. Treat yourself like Robert Pattinson’s character Charlie, about to marry the love of your life only to be hit with the terrible truth of their past, with no notice, with no warning. The Drama (2025) is a jarring watch, a daring storyline of utter madness and human chaos and I genuinely loved every minute of it.  

Moral judgement, the fragility of trust and acceptance, the union of marriage, perception, social commentary, judgement and the lasting impact of violence. The Drama (2026) is not what it says on tin, this is a thought provoking, undeniably decisive film. Will this film erupt a discourse storm, without a shadow of a doubt. I can assume The Drama (2026) was made to cause tension, to shock you, to disturb you but primary to start conversation. The Drama (2026) is controversial, it’s a nightmare, it’s audacious, it’s outlandish and unforgettably uncomfortable. 

I like films that shock me, I like films that make me laugh in disbelief and I love films that make me think. The Drama (2026) will make you think and it’ll ponder on your mind. 

The Drama (2026) surprised me beyond my wildest dreams, the film shocked me, it upset me but most of all it enticed me. As I said perviously, I like films that make me think. Although The Drama (2026) may appear to be a film about gun violence, it is also a deep commentary on human nature, perception, companionship, secrets and identity. As I think more about the film, I remember moments that made me laugh, moments that made me cringe and moments that made my eyes widen in discomfort. “Weddings are performative by nature”, is a quote that stuck out to me, performance, the facade of life, the taboo of our darkest thoughts. The Drama (2026) tests the limits of unconditional love and stress. Would you be willing to protect the person you loved, even if they admitted to something unspeakable, something evil.

PROBE POINTS

★★★★.5