The Film: Malcolm & Marie
Zendaya (HBO’s Euphoria) and John David Washington (Blackkklansman, Tenet) made a secret film in quarantine – Malcolm & Marie:
On Monday, March 16, Levinson received the call from HBO that Euphoria’s Season 2 had to shut down. I understand that one night during quarantine, Zendaya phoned him and asked if he could write and direct a movie during quarantine. Within six days, Levinson had cracked Malcolm & Marie. When it came to thinking about who could spar with Zendaya, Levinson kept seeing and hearing in his head BlacKkKlansman Golden Globe nominee and Tenet star Washington. (Deadline)
Malcolm & Marie‘s release date is February 5 on Netfilx. This looks like one to watch:
Synopsis: A director and his girlfriend’s relationship is tested after they return home from his movie premiere and await critics’ responses.
For me Malcolm & Marie has everything I could want in an indie film:
- black & white images
- moodiness
- sexiness
- romance off the rails
- nothing but dialogue
- one setting
- john david washington (and his dance moves)
Initial (Twitter) Reactions from Critics

Anne Thompson, Editor at Large, IndieWire:
Zendaya runs away with Sam Levinson’s black-and-white Cassavetes-inspired two hander Malcolm & Marie. She could steal the Best Actress Oscar from another @netflix contender, Viola Davis, for Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. It’s a two way race now. Wow.
Candice Frederick, Film/TV journalist:
I still think the age difference is… awkward. But, my word, the bareness of #MalcolmAndMarie is incredible. The constant questions about one’s artistry and relevance within a relationship as well as through their public sphere is deeply resonant.
Clayton Davis, Film Awards Editor, Variety
John David Washington and Zendaya are fire in MALCOLM & MARIE. The two bring devotion and energy to their roles, both of which can find room in the #Oscars race. Beautiful camera work. Dialogue leaves much to be desired but many will dig it.
Erik Davis, Managing Director, Fandango
Zendaya & John David Washington deliver powerhouse performances in #MalcolmAndMarie, a monologue-heavy romantic drama that’s ultimately about being a better partner & wow do they put it all out on the table. It’s angry, soulful & sweet & the music cues are the absolute best.
Both stars have some dynamite moments in this film, but Zendaya is on another level, and you won’t be able to take your eyes off her. Such a commanding performance — I think she becomes an immediate #Oscars front runner the moment this film drops. She’s outstanding.
And while the film is very much about love & respect & appreciation & forgiveness, it also has a lot to say about criticism — about how to accept it & how it can ruin you if you let it. Man, what I would give to watch the two of them perform this live on stage. Well done.
My Take

I loved how phenomenal it was
I loved the Old Hollywood vibe juxtaposed with Young Hollywood energy
I loved interplay between the actors
I loved how the passionate dialogue revealed the shape of their relationship
I loved how Marie called Malcolm “an emotional terrorist” (entirely true)
I loved how Marie is also one
I love how how brilliant Zendaya is in her acting
I loved the tempo of the emotions – highs were high and lows were low
I loved the soundtrack and how the music was like a third character
I loved the camera movements and intricate cinematography
I loved the film’s wisdom and confidence… and vulnerability
I loved the discussion about black art in the context of white film criticism
I loved the depiction of a temperamental, sensitive artist
I loved…

Everyone is excited about this film, and so am I. What about you?
P.S. Watch it and then pair it with some music about love and lost: 5 Songs on Repeat (Vol 2)
Desarae
Oooh, thank you for synopsis! I’m interested in checking this film out!
Sharila
I’ve been meaning to check this film out, and this post made me all the more eager. I love movies that are about interactions between characters as opposed to fast paced plots.
Shala
Me too. Absolutely love it
Tiffany
I had never heard about this movie before your review. After watching the trailer I’m intrigued and look forward to it coming out next month. Black and white and there raw love for each other makes for an interesting story
Shala
Definitely plan to see it!
Nkem
I saw the trailer for this recently and it looked very alluring. I think I’ll have to watch it with some wine or something because it will make me want to get all feely.
Shala
I will definitely drink the next time I watch this lol
Stevie
I’m so glad I came across this revue because I’ve been wondering about this film. Now I gotta watch it
Shala
Watch and report back!
Zaynah
I meant to watch this on V-day but we ended up watching The Photograph! I definitely have to watch!
Shala
I think the Photograph was probably the best choice if you were looking for romance on V-day, lol. This is more anti-romance but a great film nonetheless.
Lisha Panzarella-Eubanks
I can’t wait to watch
Shala
If it’s your type of thing, it’s a great film!