The Plague: Boyhood Bullying Uncovered

0:00It's March 11th, here's your Adelaide News in two minutes. The plague is a new film that dives into the harsh world of bullying among adolescent boys at a water polo summer camp. Set in the summer of 2003, it follows a group of 12 and 13 year olds under the watch of Coach Daddy Wags, played by Joel, Agerton. A new kid tries to fit in with the popular crowd, but things turn dark when they target a boy with a skin condition they call the plague. The story builds tension as rumors spread and bullying ramps up, despite the coach's efforts to step in. Director Charlie Polynger, who also wrote the script, draws from intense films like The Shining and Full Metal Jacket using Stark lighting and a sharp soundtrack to heighten the mood. Viewers get a raw look at how far kids will go to belong, blending sympathy and cruelty in close-up shots that hint at deeper madness. It's less a full thriller and more a close study of group dynamics gone wrong. Standout performances come from young actors, ever blunk as the newcomer, Kyle Martin

1:02as the leader, and Kenny Rasmussen as the outcast. Their skills impress for such early roles, backed by solid work from the rest of the young cast, and Edgerton. Overall, the plague doesn't hit its lofty thriller goals, but delivers a gripping, well-acted look at the shadows of boyhood bullying that sticks with. You. Thank you to our sponsor of today's episode. A pillow that sounds as good as it feels, built for listening and bed, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com.