Zendaya Film's Plot Twist Sparks Outrage

The film 'The Drama,' starring Robert Pattinson and Zendaya, has encountered significant backlash over a controversial plot point revealed prior to its wide release. The dark romantic comedy, directed by Kristoffer Borgli, centers on an engaged couple playing a game that involves confessing past wrongdoings.

Zendaya's character reportedly admits to having planned a school shooting but ultimately abandoning the idea. This narrative element has drawn sharp condemnation, particularly from Tom Mauser, the father of a victim from the 1999 Columbine High School shooting. Mauser described the use of such themes in a romantic comedy as "awful."

Mauser also expressed concern over discussions of the film's twist on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!,' where Zendaya alluded to its mixed tones and the varied audience reactions. He voiced worries about humanizing individuals associated with such violence and potentially normalizing school shootings, even if the act is not carried out on screen.

Reviews for 'The Drama' are embargoed until March 31st, but early reactions from a limited screening in the United States were largely positive. The controversy has also prompted renewed discussions about earlier films addressing similar themes, such as 'Elephant' and 'Bowling for Columbine.'