Critics weigh in on ‘The Drama’, starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, as wedding chaos unfolds on screen

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson’s A24 film ‘The Drama’ receives mixed reviews, but critics agree on standout performances

The A24 feature The Drama starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson is generating early buzz ahead of its April 3 release, with critics divided over the film’s darkly comedic approach.

Directed by Norwegian filmmaker Kristoffer Borgli, The Drama follows a seemingly perfect couple whose wedding week spirals into chaos after an unexpected event throws their plans into disarray. Supporting roles are filled by Mamoudou Athie and Alana Haim, whose performances contribute to the film’s tense, often cringe-inducing atmosphere.

On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an 85% rating, largely attributed to praise for Zendaya and Pattinson. Deadline’s Pete Hammond described the movie as “a darkly funny, yet explosively honest movie” and hailed Pattinson’s turn as a “career-best performance.”

Canada’s CBC called the film “imperfect, controversial, and fascinating,” noting that the plot twist is likely to provoke extensive discussion but may alienate some viewers. Meanwhile, The Australian dismissed it as “a repulsive, one-star mess,” contrasting sharply with The Guardian, which praised the movie for delivering on its provocative promises and likened it to Borgli’s previous work Dream Scenario.

Critics consistently singled out the lead performances, with US Today describing Zendaya as “quietly powerful” as she navigates the emotional turmoil of a disintegrating wedding, while Pattinson embodies a “manic roller coaster” reacting to shocking revelations. Alana Haim’s performance was described as venomous and polarising, leaving audiences debating her character’s morality.

Empire Magazine gave The Drama four stars, calling it “hilarious in that cruel, keen way that Borgli has proved to be a specialist,” and The Independent boldly named it the “most uncomfortable film of the year,” praising the film’s ability to provoke discussion and challenge viewers’ expectations.