Critics' reviews of Zendaya and Robert Pattinson's A24 drama 'The Drama'

The initial critiques are in for The Drama, the highly anticipated A24 drama featuring Zendaya & Robert Pattinson.

Directed by Norwegian creator Kristoffer Borgli (known for Dream Scenario), the film also includes performances by Mamoudou Athie and Alana Haim.

The storyline revolves around a young, engaged couple whose upcoming wedding faces chaos due to unforeseen events.

Feedback from critics is varied, but there's a shared appreciation for the standout performances by Zendaya and Pattinson.

In his assessment, Deadline’s Pete Hammond referred to The Drama as “remarkably comedic yet brutally honest,” adding that “it might take you by surprise initially, but is certain to ignite lively discussions when you leave the theater.”

Hammond also lauded Pattinson's portrayal, calling it a “landmark performance in his career.”

Canada’s CBC called the movie “flawed, divisive, but intriguing.”

The review noted “there’s almost endless debate to be had” about the film’s controversial plot twist, but cautioned that it might also divide viewers.

“The uncomfortable, dark humor from Pattinson and Zendaya might push away mainstream viewers more than it irritates them,” the critique stated.

The Australian newspaper criticised The Drama, labeling it a “disturbing, one-star calamity” in a harsh review.

Meanwhile, the UK’s Guardian offered a glowing perspective, asserting that the film “fulfills its promises.”

“The Drama carries the sharp, inventive, brazen flair of his earlier work Dream Scenario and surpasses his overt comedic take on narcissism in Sick of Myself,” the paper remarked.

“It provides a provocation, a playful spirit of shock, and a psychological breakdown conveyed with more skill than many other earnest films. It delivers exactly what the title suggests.”

US Today showered compliments on the primary performances, calling Zendaya and Pattinson “formidable” on screen.

“Zendaya delivers a quietly intense performance, balancing the tidal wave of emotions brought by a wedding with her life unraveling,” the paper noted. “Pattinson, on the other hand, is unpredictable, spiraling off course as the weight of Emma’s revelation leads Charlie to question everything, responding poorly. Then there's Haim, filled with venom and passion, potentially either the film's covert hero or villain, based on one’s viewpoint.”

In a positive four-star review, Empire Magazine commented that The Drama is “brilliantly funny in the sharply observant manner Borgli excels at.”

“It veers into the similar cringe-inducing comedy territory he explored in his excellent previous feature Sick Of Myself, a dark dramedy about a woman who, consumed by jealousy over her partner's achievements, loudly pretends to have a severe illness,” the magazine elaborated.

The Independent made an audacious claim, describing The Drama as the “year's most unnerving film.”

“The Drama poses questions that leave me unsure of the answers. And it unsettles me,” the paper expressed. “It makes me feel exposed and provoked. It also stirs a desire to discuss it with everyone. And if that’s not the essence of art, then what is?”

The Drama hits cinemas on April 3.