This drama is not the first movie to deal with the massacre of high school students. Famous examples include Gus Van Sant’s Elephant (2003) and Lynne Ramsay’s We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011). The difference here is that Norwegian writer and director Kristofer Borli takes this subject matter into the film, which despite the title is essentially a comedy. The drama has a taboo-smashing Scandinavian sensibility reminiscent of the provocative social satire of Ruben Østlund (The Triangle of Sorrow), Lukas Moodysson (Together), and Thomas Vinterberg (Another Round). But with that Scandinavian gallows humor applied to a movie set in America and starring two glamorous blockbuster superstars, it’s no wonder it’s already been made. The media is reporting backlash against the drama.even before its release. The father of one of the Columbine High School massacre victims told TMZ that the gist of the plot was “terrible.”
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Viewers will have to decide for themselves whether this backlash is justified, but the film’s risk-taking is thrilling and beautifully crafted. Some scenes, especially the one before the opening credits, feel like a flashy, campy rom-com. Pattinson’s character shares a first name, messy bangs, and penchant for glasses with the protagonist of Four Weddings and a Funeral, and Pattinson himself has all the shy British charm of a young Hugh Grant.
Other scenes are like searing black comedy, but it’s Haim who stands out, her fierce sarcasm and eye-rolling of industry strength. But there are also subtle flashbacks that explore why teenage Emma was drawn to murder, reminiscent of Netflix’s award-winning drama Adolescence, which deals with similar themes.
The question is whether Borli can find the perfect balance between these different tones. The answer is “almost, but not quite.” The drama spends more energy on awkward, uncomfortable comedy than on the reality and emotions of its characters. In the end, it’s not a wholly compelling story, a series of toe-curling, albeit hilarious sketches, and more superficial than its traumatic scenario deserves. First of all, it’s hard to believe that Emma and Charlie would end up having a rambling conversation without really discussing the confession. Still, most people who watch the drama will end up having a thorough discussion, even if the characters themselves can’t manage it. Here are the first great cinematic conversation starters of 2026.
The drama will be released in theaters in the US and UK on April 3rd.
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Source: BBC Culture – www.bbc.com
