What's Happening?
Charlie Polinger's film 'The Plague' is set to open in theaters on December 24, offering an unconventional horror narrative centered around childhood bullying. The story follows a young boy named Ben at an all-boys water polo camp, where he becomes the target of bullying led by a peer named Jake. The film delves into the casual cruelty of children, a theme that resonates with audiences who grew up in similar environments. Polinger, inspired by his own childhood experiences and journals revisited during a COVID-19 quarantine, aims to evoke visceral memories and emotions in viewers. The film is set in a period without modern technology, yet it is released in a contemporary context where President Trump’s leadership style, often characterized by bullying,
sets a national tone.
Why It's Important?
The release of 'The Plague' during President Trump's administration highlights the ongoing relevance of bullying as a societal issue. The film's exploration of social hierarchies and the dynamics of bullying reflects broader cultural and political themes, resonating with audiences across generations. By portraying the transformation of a seemingly trivial game into a serious social construct, the film mirrors real-world scenarios where collective behavior can legitimize harmful practices. This narrative can serve as a commentary on the current political climate, where authoritarian tendencies and social exclusion are prevalent. The film's impact lies in its ability to provoke personal reflection and dialogue about the nature of bullying and its implications in both personal and political spheres.
What's Next?
Following 'The Plague,' director Charlie Polinger is set to adapt Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Masque of the Red Death' into a feature film. This project will continue to explore themes of group dynamics and social structures, albeit in a different genre and setting. Polinger's adaptation promises a bombastic and darkly comedic take on Poe's classic tale, set in a medieval, fantastical world. This upcoming film will likely further Polinger's exploration of human instincts and societal behaviors, offering audiences a new lens through which to examine these enduring themes.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond its immediate narrative, 'The Plague' invites viewers to consider the ethical and psychological dimensions of bullying. The film's portrayal of peer pressure and the desire for social acceptance highlights the complexities of human behavior and the potential for cruelty within social groups. By setting the story in a past era, the film underscores the timeless nature of these issues, suggesting that the roots of bullying and social exclusion are deeply embedded in human nature. This perspective encourages audiences to reflect on their own experiences and the broader societal structures that perpetuate such behaviors.
