Critics Divided on Controversial New Drama Starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson

The Drama is generating strong reactions, both positive and negative, ahead of its theatrical release.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:37pm

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An abstract close-up image featuring shattered glass and glittering sequins in high-contrast studio lighting, conveying the glamour and drama of the film's subject matter.The bold visual style and provocative subject matter of the new film The Drama are sure to spark strong reactions from audiences.NYC Today

The upcoming A24 film The Drama, starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, has been generating a lot of buzz and controversy among critics who have seen early screenings. While some praise the film's bold storytelling and the performances of the lead actors, others find the subject matter deeply disturbing and question the director's approach to the charged themes.

Why it matters

The Drama is poised to be one of the most talked-about films of the year, sparking important discussions around societal issues, personal relationships, and the limits of unconditional love. However, the film's provocative subject matter is also likely to generate significant backlash from audiences who may find it too unsettling or morally questionable to enjoy.

The details

The film's big narrative twist happens about 30 minutes in, according to critics, and how the characters react to the dark secret that rocks the engaged couple's relationship is just as important as the secret itself. The Drama has been described as both deeply disturbing and darkly hilarious, with the director's approach to the material drawing a range of reactions from critics.

  • The Drama is scheduled to hit theaters on Friday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Kristoffer Borgli

The writer and director of The Drama, known for creating art that he intends to both disturb and delight audiences.

Zendaya

The acclaimed actress who stars in The Drama alongside Robert Pattinson.

Robert Pattinson

The versatile actor who co-stars in The Drama, delivering a performance that critics say includes both subtlety and well-earned outbursts.

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What they’re saying

“Like the spoiler-y revelation, the movie is unsettling, but it's darkly funny at times, and ultimately a satisfying way to explore both societal issues and personal issues at the same time. The Drama finds a new spin on an old idea that makes it completely different than anything else in the romantic comedy genre. Rom coms are meant to be fantasies, not nightmares. Even the tropes it incorporates are twisted from what we all expect.”

— Hugh Scott, CinemaBlend Critic

“It's cringe-inducing and gross-out in places (join my own campaign for filmmakers to stop shooting endless projectile puking as a metaphor for emotion), but artfully shot, interestingly edited and set to some of the freakest flute toots in arthouse cinema. The ending scene is genuinely romantic and feels like something out of a cult classic movie. It's some delicious drama that will hopefully outlive whatever outrage the subject matter is duly generating.”

— India Block, Critic

“For the brave, avoid any spoilers or even vague whispers at all costs. Going in cold, you'll never guess the bombshell. Be warned: When the scene arrives, you might absolutely loathe it. Even if what happens after that jaw-dropper doesn't pack the same punch — how can it? — much of The Drama is gripping, quite stressfully so, and it's sometimes stomach-churning in the topical subjects it touches. Look, this is not a pleasant experience. But it's an admirably tough one to shake.”

— Johnny Oleksinski, Critic

What’s next

The Drama is scheduled to hit theaters on Friday, April 3, 2026, where it is expected to generate significant discussion and debate among audiences.

The takeaway

The Drama is a bold and provocative film that tackles complex societal and personal issues in a way that is likely to deeply divide audiences. While some critics praise the film's artistic merits and the performances of its lead actors, others find the subject matter too disturbing to fully embrace. Regardless of one's reaction, The Drama is poised to be one of the most talked-about films of the year.