The upcoming A24 film, The Drama, starring Robert Pattinson and Zendaya, is generating significant buzz, with a trailer recently released and a unique marketing campaign capturing widespread attention. The film, directed and written by Kristoffer Borgli, known for his unconventional narratives such as "Dream Scenario," is slated to hit theaters on April 3, 2026.
The Drama centers on Emma Harwood (Zendaya) and Charlie Thompson (Robert Pattinson), an engaged couple whose seemingly perfect relationship begins to unravel in the days leading up to their wedding. A dark secret surfaces, testing their commitment and casting a shadow over what should be the happiest day of their lives. The narrative explores themes of love, trust, and the hidden truths that can lie beneath the surface of even the most intimate relationships.
The trailer offers a glimpse into the mounting tension and awkwardness that plagues Emma and Charlie as their wedding day approaches. A particularly cringe-worthy pre-wedding photoshoot highlights the growing emotional distance between them. While the film is described as a dark comedy, the trailer also hints at moments of genuine distress and chaos, suggesting a potentially unsettling viewing experience. Supporting roles are filled by Mamoudou Athie, Alana Haim, and Hailey Gates, adding further depth to the couple's personal and social circles.
A24, known for its innovative marketing strategies, orchestrated a clever promotional stunt that initially led many to believe that Pattinson and Zendaya were actually engaged. A formal-looking engagement announcement, complete with character names and details, was placed in The Boston Globe, mimicking a genuine announcement. The ad announced the engagement of Emma Harwood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roger Harwood, to Charlie Thompson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alan Thompson. It further detailed Emma's background as a 2013 graduate of Portside High School and a 2017 honors graduate of Boston University, employed at Mission Books. Charlie was described as a 2004 graduate of Eaton College with a Ph.D. in Art History from Tufts University, serving as the Director of the Cambridge Art Museum. The announcement subtly included the film's release date, April 3, 2026, as the couple's wedding date.
The campaign generated significant buzz on social media, with fans initially confused but ultimately praising A24's creativity. The studio's official X account posted, "Every wedding has some. THE DRAMA, a new comedy from Kristoffer Borgli starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, opens in theaters April 3. Save the date".
The Drama marks the first of several collaborations between Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, who are also slated to appear in Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey and Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part Three in 2026. In The Odyssey, Zendaya will portray the Greek goddess Athena, while Pattinson will play Antinous. For Dune: Part Three, Zendaya will reprise her role as Chani, and Pattinson is rumored to be playing Scytale.
