Cruelty Spreads Like a Plague in a Thrilling Adolescent Drama
Few films capture the harsh reality of childhood like this one. Being young isn't just about wonder and freedom; it's also about the abuse doled out by peers, the bullies, and the constant pressure to fit in. For every beautiful experience a child encounters, there's a nasty, predatory element lurking in the background. This is what makes Charlie Polinger's debut, 'The Plague', so impactful and difficult to watch. Polinger's film is a sharp portrayal of the masculine struggles, bottled-up pain, and explosive release, set against the backdrop of a group of preteen water polo players. The young cast, including up-and-coming stars like Everett Blunck, brings an intense and raw portrayal of pubescent social dynamics, making it thrilling and brutal at the same time.
The story unfolds through the eyes of Ben (Everett Blunck), a newcomer at Tom Lerner Water Polo Camp in 2003. The camp is filled with little white boys with bleach-blond hair, mimicking the popular culture of the time. As Ben navigates his social status, he discovers that he's already higher in the hierarchy than he thought. The lowest caste, however, belongs to Eli (Kenny Rasmussen), who is referred to as 'The Plague' due to a pimply rash. The other kids avoid him, and Ben, despite showing more compassion, still operates as part of the swarm. The film explores the dynamics of bullying, where the team, led by Jake (Kayo Martin), targets vulnerabilities and escalates their oppression, not just towards Eli but also towards others.
'The Plague' delves into the realm of body horror, with stunning slo-mo underwater photography and face-framing close-ups, though the score by Johan Lenox sometimes overshadows these visuals. The setting of the camp, with its constant endurance and age-specific atmosphere, highlights the desperate need to conform to a group, driven by both ego and survival instincts. This sensation permeates the film, making it a powerful commentary on the angry and confused nature of young boys.
Director and writer Charlie Polinger, with the help of producer-actor Joel Edgerton, has crafted an honest and cutting portrayal of adolescent drama. The film's release date is set for December 24, 2025, and it promises to be a thought-provoking and controversial exploration of the harsh realities of youth.
