A happily engaged couple is put to the test when an unexpected turn sends their wedding week off the rails.

There’s a question at the center of The Drama that some have mistakenly described as a twist. It’s not a twist; it’s kind of the entire crux of the plot. But to reveal it would be a disservice, so I won’t. It also makes it difficult to really talk about the film. What I can say is that Norwegian writer-director Kristoffer Borgli has crafted a complex, intriguing, beguiling morality play that is as engaging as it is maddening.

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, in their first of three (!) movies this year play a couple on their way to the altar until an awkward moment upends everything about their relationship. Zendaya delivers yet another star turn. She’s such a crisply-drawn, seasoned performer that commands every scene in the loud moments as much as she does in the quiet ones – a crinkle of her nose, the narrowing of her eyes. She just exudes so much without it feeling like she’s ACTING in an all caps. Pattinson is befuddled charm, and actually commands more of the movie, which isn’t bad, but I do think a version of the movie with the roles reversed would’ve been much more interesting (if more obvious).

Alana Haim, on another break from being a rock star, slides right into her bitchy, upper crust New Yorker role. Mamoudou Athie is also great as Haim’s partner, and Pattinson’s BFF. The movie is dark but fascinating, and provokes discussion, which is the sign of great art. There are some great comedic moments throughout, especially one with Succession’s Zoe Winters as the wedding photographer.

If you’re going to see it, which I recommend, please please please don’t read too much about it. You’ll be so much better off.

Jonathan’s grade – B