Controversial Film 'The Drama' Explores Forgiveness After Planned School Shooting

Robert Pattinson and Zendaya star in a dark romantic comedy that asks tough questions about the aftermath of a shocking revelation.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:41pm

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An abstract close-up photograph featuring shattered glass and cracked mirror textures in dramatic, high-contrast lighting, conveying a sense of emotional fragmentation and tension.The Drama's dark exploration of forgiveness and the aftermath of a shocking revelation is reflected in the film's visually striking and conceptually layered imagery.Boston Today

The new A24 film 'The Drama' from writer-director Kristofer Borgli follows a couple, Charlie (Robert Pattinson) and Emma (Zendaya), whose relationship is upended when Emma reveals she once planned a school shooting as a teenager. The film explores how Charlie grapples with this revelation and whether he can move forward with their wedding plans.

Why it matters

The Drama tackles the sensitive topic of school shootings and the complex emotions surrounding it, challenging audiences to consider how they would respond in a similar situation. The film's provocative premise and dark humor aim to cut through the noise of today's media landscape and spark difficult conversations.

The details

The Drama begins as a romantic comedy, with Charlie and Emma's relationship progressing quickly. However, a week before their wedding, Emma confesses that when she was 14, she had planned a school shooting, though she ultimately did not go through with it. This revelation shakes Charlie, who must decide whether he can move forward with their marriage. The film explores Emma's backstory of bullying and depression that led to her planned attack, as well as the reactions of their friends Mike and Rachel, whose own dark secrets pale in comparison.

  • The Drama is set in present-day Boston, Massachusetts.
  • The film's key events take place in the week leading up to Charlie and Emma's planned wedding.

The players

Charlie

The film's protagonist, a museum curator who becomes engaged to Emma before her shocking revelation.

Emma

Charlie's fiancée, who confesses to planning a school shooting as a teenager due to bullying and depression.

Kristofer Borgli

The writer and director of The Drama, known for his provocative storytelling.

Robert Pattinson

The acclaimed actor who stars as Charlie in the film.

Zendaya

The Emmy-winning actress who portrays Emma in The Drama.

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What’s next

The Drama is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2027, where it is expected to generate significant buzz and discussion around its provocative premise.

The takeaway

The Drama challenges audiences to grapple with the complex emotions and moral quandaries surrounding school shootings and the possibility of forgiveness. By blending dark humor with a sensitive subject matter, the film aims to cut through the noise and spark difficult conversations about the lasting impact of such tragedies.