Exploring Adolescent Cruelty in "The Plague"

Charlie Polinger's debut feature film, "The Plague," delves into the complexities of adolescent cruelty within the confines of a water polo camp in 2003. The narrative centers on 12-year-old Ben (Everett Blunck), who faces the daunting challenge of fitting into an established social hierarchy dominated by a group led by the manipulative Jake (Kayo Martin). The film explores themes of ostracism and the psychological impact of bullying, particularly through the character of Eli (Kenny Rasmussen), who is labeled as "the plague" by his peers due to his awkwardness and physical appearance.

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Set against the backdrop of a water polo camp, "The Plague" employs a unique setting to portray familiar adolescent struggles. The film's atmosphere is crafted through Polinger's direction and Steven Breckon's cinematography, which captures the eerie and tumultuous nature of preteen interactions. The narrative draws parallels to classic works like "Lord of the Flies," emphasizing the primal instincts that surface in the absence of adult supervision. The camp serves as a microcosm for the harsh realities of growing up, where friendships are fragile and the fear of exclusion looms large.

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• Ben (Everett Blunck): The sensitive protagonist navigating the treacherous waters of social acceptance.

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• Jake (Kayo Martin): The quintessential bully, whose manipulative tactics create a toxic environment for his peers.

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• Eli (Kenny Rasmussen): The outcast, whose struggles with self-acceptance and bullying highlight the film's central themes.

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• Coach (Joel Edgerton): A well-meaning but ineffective authority figure, representing the disconnect between adults and the realities of youth.

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Critics of "The Plague" may argue that the film's portrayal of bullying, while poignant, risks reinforcing negative stereotypes about adolescence. The depiction of Jake as a classic bully could be seen as overly simplistic, failing to explore the deeper motivations behind such behavior. Additionally, some viewers might find the film's dark themes unsettling, questioning whether it effectively addresses the complexities of childhood trauma or merely sensationalizes it.

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Polinger has indicated that "The Plague" draws from his own childhood experiences, lending authenticity to the narrative. The film's R rating by the Motion Picture Association reflects its mature themes, including language, sexual material, and depictions of self-harm, which are integral to its exploration of adolescent life.

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• “In “The Plague,” ostracism is as permanent and irremediable as any pandemic infection.” — Charlie Polinger, Director

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• “The most tragic thing in it is that even Eli seems to think “the plague” is real, that there really is something wrong with him.” — Film Review Commentary

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• “This is a movie that makes you all the more thankful for adulthood, just as it renews your sympathy for those still wading such daunting waters.” — Film Review Commentary

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"The Plague" invites discussions about the impact of bullying and the importance of addressing mental health in youth. As audiences engage with its themes, it may inspire further exploration of how childhood experiences shape adult perspectives, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in addressing adolescent issues.

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