The Drama manages to make you feel probably every emotion there is, with awkwardness being one of the more primary. With an expectation that I wouldn't find it that enjoyable, I couldn't have been happier to be more wrong. This one is out today on 4k UHD and Blu-ray.
“Robert Pattinson and Zendaya star as a happily engaged couple whose relationship is put to the ultimate test after a sudden revelation throws their happily ever after into spectacular turmoil. Rising comedic auteur Kristoffer Borgil pushes the wedding comedy into fresh new territory in an inventive, darkly funny, and unexpectedly heartfelt look at love in the age of oversharing.”
Kristoffer Borgli’s The Drama is a sharp, squirm-inducing dark romantic comedy that A24 has delivered with their usual bold flair. The film excels at exploring complex themes of moral judgment, redemption, the weight of past sins, and the limits of unconditional love.
I’ll admit, I was not particularly taken with the trailer for this film, not in the usual way I am with most A24 upcoming films. The trailer made the film seem like everything hinged on the ‘secret’ that Zendaya reveals as “the worst thing you’ve ever done”. The way they dance around it in the trailer, almost lightheartedly, made me think the revelation would fall flat upon seeing the film, which is one of the reasons I spoiled it for myself before ever even thinking of watching the film, and I’ll say, I am glad I did. I think knowing what this is better prepares you for the story that is unfolding and the direction the relationship takes only days before they are to be wed.
What I particularly enjoyed and what makes it more effective is the fact that, although the film is about dwelling on the secret that’s revealed, it’s more about seeing your partner in a new light. It focuses on the chaos and emotional fallout that erupts in its wake, turning a single confession into a pressure cooker of awkwardness, doubt, resentment, and self-examination. Robert Pattinson begins to second guess small occurrences from the history of their relationship, and you squirm with anticipation and discomfort in the most perfect ways throughout the film.
The cast is absolutely spectacular. Zendaya delivers a nuanced, layered performance as Emma, balancing vulnerability, strength, and quiet defensiveness with incredible skill. Robert Pattinson is equally outstanding as Charlie, capturing the slow unraveling of a man who thought he knew everything about the woman he loves. Their chemistry crackles with both tenderness and tension. The supporting cast, including Alana Haim, Mamoudou Athie, and Hailey Gates, are all superb.
Borgli’s direction is precise and meticulous. One thing that won me over was how the story was told through editing. One moment we hear a piece of dialogue, then we cut to a seemingly unrelated scene with no reference. Borgil trusts his audience to be intelligent enough to put the pieces together, that these are either past moments from their two-year relationship, or fantasies of the character that are not truly happening. It starts off feeling a bit jarring with its abrupt cuts and shifting rhythms, but it quickly becomes a valued addition that mirrors the fractured, anxious state of the characters’ minds.
Video
A24’s 4k release presents the film in crisp 2160 Ultra-High Definition with a strong AVC encode in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio featuring Dolby Vision. The image is clean and detailed, with naturalistic colors that suit both the warm settings and the colder emotional moments. Contrast is excellent, making this a very pleasing presentation.
Audio
Audio is delivered in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, providing clear, centered dialogue and a subtle but effective use of surrounds for the growing tension. Daniel Pemberton’s score adds nice texture to the mix.
Special Features
A wide array of extras to keep you busy after the credits roll. This is one of those films that you’ll be wanting more, and this A24 set doesn’t disappoint.
- Commentary with Costume Designer Katina Danabassis, Production Designer Zosia Mackenzie & Co-editor Joshua Raymond Lee
- Making-of Featurette
- Wardrobe & Camera Test with Commentary
- “Relationship Hotline” Promo
- Charlie & Emma Wedding Video
- Six Collectible Postcards illustrated by Kristina Tzekova
The Drama on 4k UHD is a provocative, uncomfortable, and thought-provoking gem that lingers long after the credits roll. With stellar performances, smart direction, and a story that prioritizes emotional chaos, it’s a strong release from A24. This one is out now on 4k UHD and Blu-ray.
