The Sam Sanders Show Want to Cancel ‘The Drama’? You’re Missing the Point
Apr 7, 2026
Amy Nicholson, LA Times film critic and Unspooled co-host, joins to unpack A24’s controversial film. They discuss the movie’s shocking twist, its rom-com marketing bait, and whether shock can prompt meaningful conversation about gun violence and forgiveness. They also debate the director’s tone, star use, and missed opportunities around race and responsibility.
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Host Spent A Day Debating The Movie
- Sam describes his personal reaction: he left the theater thinking about the film all day and discussing it with his partner.
- He says the movie kept him talking for hours, showing its emotional and conversational hold.
Shock Twist As Conversation Starter
- The Drama uses a shocking twist to force public conversation about American gun violence.
- Sam and Amy say the film's bait-and-switch marketing and surprise confession made audiences and groups like March for Our Lives debate accountability publicly.
Let Messy Films Spark Debate
- Use provocative films to start uncomfortable conversations rather than censoring them.
- Amy and Sam argue that clumsy engagement with hard topics is better than ignoring them and can spark public debate after screenings.