Sol Garcia | THE RIDER
When I heard about the newest Netflix film with Zendaya, “Malcolm and Marie,” I couldn’t wait to see it. If a movie has the stunning actress, I’m immediately hooked, especially after her renowned performance in HBO’s “Euphoria.” When expectations are set so highly, though, the only way to go from there is usually down. Sadly, I would have rather watched a LEGO movie, a reference the couple continuously bring up.
Before we begin, it must be noted this review and the film have several trigger warnings, such as mentions of suicide, verbal and emotional abuse in relationships, drug addiction, gaslighting and sexual content.
The black-and-white movie, released last month, stars John David Washington as Malcolm. Malcolm has just arrived where he is staying with Marie, his girlfriend, from his movie premiere. He’s in high spirits, relishing in his success as a director and scriptwriter, while Marie, played by Zendaya, is upset about something but doesn’t want to discuss it. She just wants to end the night after making Malcolm some mac and cheese.
After his insistence, Marie reveals she’s hurt that Malcolm forgot to thank her in his speech, the one that thanked others. It’s worse that he didn’t thank her since his movie’s plot shares many similarities to Marie’s life: a woman who has experienced a drug addiction and wanting to end her life. While eating the mac and cheese Marie made him, Malcolm belittles her, cursing and calling her delusional. It’s unpleasant to watch as is most of the movie.
Every time they seem to resolve one conflict, another drives the pair apart. The entire movie is about their instability as a couple, repeating the broken cycle over and over again in a single night. In one minute, Malcolm is pursuing Marie sexually, and in the next, he is telling her, “You’re a … featherweight, a level-one boss. I can snap you like a twig.”
The blame can’t be shifted all onto Malcolm, though. Marie is obviously a person who bottles in her feelings, a luxury couples can’t afford. She needs to learn to be honest about her grievances with her partner, but one must wonder if she does it out of habit or does she know Malcolm won’t react well regardless?
With that said, credit is due to Marie for trying to preserve the peace during Malcolm’s special night. She didn’t want to ruin it since she knew the conflict wouldn’t be solved that night anyway. She didn’t warrant the cruel words from Malcolm at all, especially when he cruelly used her suicide attempt as a comeback.
As for the production, it must be recognized. Filmed during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, “Malcolm and Marie” features only the two actors in the single location. Both of the actors performed their characters well. Zendaya’s tension, hurt and anger is felt with every foot tapping, voice crack and subtle tear.
One of my favorite performances from the former Disney star is when she sits outside to make up with Malcolm. Her movements range from nervous lip biting to shaking her foot as she plays a song as a peace offering. In return, Washington’s character cracks his knuckles, making the scene possibly triggering for domestic abuse survivors. Thankfully, Malcolm doesn’t get violent; instead, he walks away from Marie, unable to talk to her. Marie mournfully watches him go. They will get past that issue, though, so they can fight about another one afterward.
Washington’s acting matches his costar’s. His delivery of lines is perfect for the moments. One of his most memorable quotes that isn’t unpleasant is when he shouts, “Why didn’t you do that in the audition?” His dead stare followed by constant blinking and open palms is the right element to break some of the scene’s tension.
The actors did amazing with their roles, but it did not make the movie worth viewing for me. In an hour and 45 minutes, the movie is too emotionally exhausting to finish. Witnessing this couple’s toxic dynamic is too much, and while the ending makes sense, it is not the closure viewers need to see.
Toxic relationships, like Malcolm and Marie’s, are more common than we may think, and they need to be acknowledged. Media needs to portray them, but as a warning to recognize and stay away from. They should not set an example for the audience to follow. If the movie had ended differently, this emotional journey of a long, tumultuous night may have been worth it, but alas, that is not the case.
“Malcolm and Marie” receives the sunny rating of: ☼ ☼ ☉ or 2.5 suns.
Reviews are based on five suns.
