The Drama 🍿🎥🎬

The movie The Drama received a ton of attention earlier this year when it was first released, but I finally saw it recently after it appeared on home streaming services. I was riveted by the conflict that formed the basis for the plot, which revolves around a young couple’s romance, engagement and pending wedding.

Without spoiling it for you if you haven’t seen it, the most interesting aspect of this movie for me had to do with the friends surrounding the couple. Charlie, the groom, portrayed by Robert Pattinson of Twilight fame, has maintained a long-term friendship with his best man Mike, played by Mamoudou Athie. Their friendship seemed genuine, characterized by affection, shared history, and care for one another.

The bride (artfully played by Zendaya), however, has few friends, which she makes clear near the beginning of the film in a cafe scene with Mike’s wife Rachel, portrayed by Alana Haim. The reasons for this have to do with her childhood and background, but she also strikes me as a bit of an introvert, which is part of what makes her romantic story with Charlie so sweet.

It’s hard to tell who has your back from who has it long enough just to stab you in it.

–Nicole Richie

This Nicole Richie quote reminds me of the Rachel character from the movie. In my opinion, the way things spin out for Charlie and his bride stem from Rachel’s role in the story. Watching this unfold in the context of the friendships was what made this black comedy such a delicious mess for me.

Like in the movie, most of us have had the experience of a friend who contributed negatively to whatever bad situation we may have found ourselves in at one time or another. Some friends provide a calming effect, while others do the opposite. When we are in the middle of dealing with life’s events and relying on our friends, it can sometimes be hard to tell the difference. The movie was a great reminder to me of the importance of not being influenced by the people around us who aren’t acting in a supportive or helpful way, but also to treasure those who do have our best interests at heart.

The Red Clay Strays have an amazingly relevant and beautiful song that was in my head during the movie, and I’ve linked it here for your enjoyment.