Upcoming Movies: The Plague (2025) by Charlie Polinger

"The Plague (2025)": A Descent into the Psychological Horrors of Summer Camp

Description: Charlie Polinger's debut feature film, "The Plague (2025)," is a psychological horror and coming-of-age drama that plunges into the unsettling world of an all-boys water polo summer camp. The film explores the ruthless social hierarchy and the intense anxiety of a 12-year-old boy who becomes entangled in a cruel tradition targeting an outcast, blurring the lines between a childhood game and a terrifying reality.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32792934/

Link Review: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/the-plague-review-joel-edgerton-1236215166/

About movie: https://www.agcstudios.com/pres

Release Date on Streaming: A specific streaming release date for "The Plague (2025)" is not available. Its availability on streaming platforms will follow any potential theatrical release and will depend on distribution deals.

Theatrical Release: "The Plague (2025)" had its World Premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival on May 16, 2025, as part of the Un Certain Regard section. This is its primary theatrical premiere. Information about wider theatrical releases beyond the festival circuit is not yet available.

Detailed Summary: Set during a summer at a water polo camp, "The Plague" follows Ben, an anxious 12-year-old navigating the complex and often brutal social dynamics of his peers. He witnesses and is drawn into a cruel camp tradition where a designated outcast, labeled with a metaphorical "Plague" due to a perceived illness or difference, becomes the target of isolation and torment. As Ben grapples with the pressure to conform and the rising tide of his own social anxiety, the film delves into his psychological turmoil. The lines between the "game" of the plague and genuine fear and perception begin to blur, leading Ben to question if the cruel joke might be masking something more sinister and real. The film is described as a stark and authentic portrayal of the insidious nature of bullying and the terror of being an outsider during the vulnerable years of adolescence.

Plot Summary:

• An anxious 12-year-old boy, Ben, attends an all-boys water polo summer camp.

• He encounters a harsh social hierarchy and a cruel tradition called "The Plague."

• "The Plague" involves targeting an outcast with a metaphorical illness.

• Ben's anxiety increases as he is drawn into the tradition.

• The distinction between the game and reality becomes blurred, leading to psychological horror.

The plot is a coming-of-age story infused with elements of psychological horror, exploring themes of social dynamics and anxiety in an isolated setting.

Director's Vision: "The Plague (2025)" marks the feature directorial debut of Charlie Polinger, who also wrote the screenplay. Polinger's vision for the film is to explore the "violence and vulnerability of boyhood" in a way that deviates from typical nostalgic or comedic portrayals of coming-of-age. Drawing from his own experience of social anxiety at age 12, he aims to capture the intense fear and discomfort that can define that period of life. Polinger uses a blend of stark realism and unsettling atmosphere to depict the "living hell of social anxiety" he felt. He is interested in the unsettling aspects of peer pressure and male rites of passage. While acknowledging the film is not a traditional illness narrative despite the title, he focuses on the psychological impact of being ostracized and the blurring of perception and reality for his young protagonist.

Themes:

• Bullying and Peer Pressure: The film offers a raw and authentic portrayal of the cruel social dynamics and pressure to conform within a group of young boys.

• Social Hierarchy and Exclusion: It explores the formation of social orders and the fear of being outcast or "infected" with social undesirability.

• Anxiety and Psychological Turmoil: The protagonist's intense social anxiety and the psychological impact of the camp environment are central to the film.

• Childhood Trauma: The film delves into the potentially traumatic experiences of navigating difficult social situations during adolescence.

• The Blur Between Reality and Perception: As the "game" of The Plague escalates, the film explores how anxiety and fear can distort one's understanding of what is real.

• Coming-of-Age: Despite the horror elements, it is also a story about the difficult and often terrifying process of growing up.

• Masculinity and Rites of Passage: The film examines aspects of male social dynamics and potentially harmful group traditions.

Key Success Factors:

• Authentic Portrayal of Bullying and Anxiety: Early reviews highlight the film's realistic depiction of these difficult experiences.

• Unsettling Atmosphere and Visuals: The film is praised for its flair for creating a disturbing mood and notable underwater cinematography.

• Strong Performances from Young Cast: The effectiveness of the film relies heavily on the performances of the young actors portraying the camp dynamics.

• Involvement of Joel Edgerton: His participation as an actor and producer brings additional attention to the film.

• Prestigious Festival Premiere: Being selected for Cannes Un Certain Regard is a significant launchpad for a debut feature.

• Unique Blend of Genres: The combination of coming-of-age drama and psychological horror offers a fresh perspective.

Summary Short: Charlie Polinger's debut feature "The Plague (2025)" is a psychological horror set at a water polo summer camp where an anxious 12-year-old navigates brutal social hierarchies and a cruel tradition called "The Plague," blurring reality and fear. It premiered at Cannes Un Certain Regard 2025.

Awards and Nominations: "The Plague (2025)" had its World Premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival on May 16, 2025, in the Un Certain Regard section. This is a highly prestigious platform for a debut feature film and is a significant form of recognition. While specific awards wins from Cannes are yet to be announced as of May 17, 2025, the film's selection for this competitive section is a major achievement and it is eligible for the Un Certain Regard prizes. Charlie Polinger has also received nominations related to the Un Certain Regard section (Prize of Un Certain Regard, Directing Prize, Jury Prize).

Critics Reception: Critical reception for "The Plague (2025)," based on early reviews from its Cannes premiere, is generally positive, with critics acknowledging its impact in portraying the psychological horrors of bullying and adolescence, while some note areas for deeper exploration.

• Reddit (Review Snippet): Describes the film as a "fantastic portrayal of bullying" that is "painfully authentic." It praises Polinger for capturing the experience with "striking clarity" and creating a tone that matches the terror of adolescence. The direction, underwater scenes, score, and blend of genres are highlighted positively.

• Screendaily: Calls the film an "uneven mixture of coming-of-age drama and psychological horror" but notes that Polinger has a "flair for unsettling atmosphere." It suggests the film has much to say about peer pressure and male rites of passage, though the points can sometimes be repetitive or lack depth.

• Indiewire: Describes the film as playing with "broad riffs on coming-of-age, body horror, and bullying genres before paring these themes back to reveal that two 12-year-old boys... are really the heartfelt preoccupation of the film." It calls it an "extraordinary, emotional" debut that is "full of ideas."

• Cannes Film Festival Official Website: Features an interview with Charlie Polinger where he discusses his inspiration and desire to explore the violence and vulnerability of boyhood.

Overall Critics Reception: The critical reception is largely favorable, with particular praise for the film's authentic and unsettling depiction of bullying and social anxiety, the strong atmosphere created by Polinger's direction and the cinematography, and the effective blend of genres. While some reviews indicate that the thematic exploration could be deeper in certain areas, the film is widely seen as a powerful and promising debut.

Reviews: Detailed reviews from Cannes are providing insight into the film's strengths and impact.

• Key Praises: Reviewers consistently commend the film's authentic portrayal of the psychological impact of bullying and social hierarchy on a young boy. Charlie Polinger's direction is praised for creating a palpable sense of unease and for his visual style, particularly in the underwater sequences. The performances of the young cast, especially Everett Blunck as Ben, are crucial to the film's authenticity and have been well-received. The film's effectiveness as a psychological horror that stems from realistic social fears is a recurring positive point. The score by Johan Lenox has also been noted for enhancing the unsettling mood.

• Points of Criticism: Some reviews suggest that the film's thematic insights, while relevant, might become somewhat repetitive or could have been explored with greater depth in certain aspects.

Overall Reviews: The available reviews indicate that "The Plague" is a critically interesting and impactful debut feature, particularly within the horror and coming-of-age genres. It is celebrated for its unsettling atmosphere, authentic performances, and bold approach to depicting the psychological toll of bullying.

Production: "The Plague (2025)" is a co-production between the United States and Romania. The film was written and directed by Charlie Polinger. Producers include Lizzie Shapiro, Lucy McKendrick, Steven Schneider, Roy Lee, and Derek Dauchy. Production companies involved are Spooky Pictures, Hellcat, The Space Program, Five Henrys Productions, and Image Nation Abu Dhabi. The cast features young actors Everett Blunck, Kayo Martin, and Kenny Rasmussen, with Joel Edgerton also appearing in a role (Daddy Wags) and involved as a producer. Steven Breckon was the cinematographer, Simon Njoo and Henry Hayes were the editors, and Johan Lenox composed the music.

Production Companies:

• Spooky Pictures (US)

• Hellcat

• The Space Program

• Five Henrys Productions

• Image Nation Abu Dhabi

Sales Companies:

• AGC International (World-wide)

• Cinetic Media (US)

• UTA Independent Film Group (US)

These companies are handling sales ahead of and during the Cannes market.

Distribution Companies: Specific distribution companies for "The Plague (2025)" beyond its sales agents are not yet widely available. Its distribution strategy will be determined based on agreements made at film markets and festivals.

Why to Recommend This Movie:

• Authentic and Impactful Portrayal of Bullying: The film offers a raw and relatable look at the psychological effects of peer cruelty.

• Promising Debut from a New Director: See the first feature film from Charlie Polinger, recognized at Cannes.

• Unique Blend of Genres: The combination of coming-of-age drama and psychological horror provides a fresh perspective.

• Unsettling Atmosphere and Strong Visuals: The film is praised for its mood and cinematography.

• Relevant Themes of Anxiety and Social Hierarchy: The film explores issues that resonate with adolescent experiences.

Why to Watch Movie:

• If You Are Interested in Psychological Horror: Experience a film that derives its horror from realistic human fears and social dynamics.

• For Films About the Challenges of Growing Up: Gain insight into the difficult social aspects of adolescence.

• Appreciate Artistically Crafted Independent Cinema: See a film recognized for its direction, cinematography, and atmosphere.

• To Support Debut Filmmakers: Discover the work of Charlie Polinger.

• Interested in Films That Explore Social Issues Through Genre: See how horror elements are used to address themes of bullying and anxiety.

What Movie Trend film is Following: Coming-of-Age Horror / Psychological Horror / Social Thrillers: The film fits within the growing trend of horror films that blend genre elements with coming-of-age narratives, often exploring the psychological anxieties and social pressures of adolescence. Its focus on social hierarchy and group dynamics also aligns with social thrillers.

What Big Social Trend is Following: Increased Awareness and Discussion Around Bullying and Mental Health in Youth: The film directly engages with the important social trend of raising awareness about the impact of bullying and its severe effects on the mental health and psychological well-being of young people. It contributes to the ongoing conversation about creating safer environments and addressing the roots of peer cruelty.

Final Verdict: "The Plague (2025)" is a striking and psychologically resonant debut feature from Charlie Polinger that effectively captures the inherent terror of navigating social hierarchies and experiencing bullying during adolescence. By blending authentic coming-of-age drama with unsettling psychological horror, the film creates a palpable sense of anxiety and fear. Polinger's direction, coupled with strong performances from the young cast and notable visual elements, results in a powerful and often disturbing portrayal of the emotional toll of being an outsider. Its premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival is a significant testament to its artistic merit and impact. While some critics may desire deeper thematic exploration, "The Plague" stands as a promising and compelling first film that bravely delves into the dark corners of childhood social dynamics and the lasting scars they can leave.

Recommendations for Film Makers:

• Draw on Personal Experiences to Inform Storytelling: Polinger's use of his own social anxiety experience likely contributed to the film's authenticity.

• Utilize Genre to Explore Social Issues: The film demonstrates how horror elements can effectively highlight and amplify the psychological impact of real-world problems like bullying.

• Focus on Atmosphere and Visual Storytelling: Creating a strong mood and using compelling visuals can enhance the emotional impact of a film, particularly in the horror genre.

• Work Closely with Young Actors: Guiding young performers to deliver authentic and emotionally resonant portrayals is crucial for films centered on adolescent experiences.

Recommendations for Movie Industry:

• Support Debut Filmmakers with Unique Visions: Recognize and champion new directors like Charlie Polinger who bring fresh perspectives and artistic ambition to their work.

• Invest in Genre Films That Explore Deeper Themes: Encourage the production and distribution of horror or thriller films that use genre elements to engage with relevant social and psychological issues.

• Provide Platforms for Stories About the Challenges of Youth: Support films that offer honest and impactful portrayals of the difficulties faced by young people, including bullying and mental health struggles.

• Recognize and Celebrate Strong Technical Craft in Independent Films: Highlight achievements in cinematography, editing, and sound design that contribute significantly to a film's overall quality and impact.