Having the ability to effectively convey the human experience is a skill that few filmmakers possess. While rare, a talented director can sometimes utilise the right script to deliver a deeply emotional cinematic experience. Written and directed by Charlie Polinger, The Plague is a psychological exploration of male adolescence. Exceptionally emotional and often uncomfortable, the film’s only flaw is its limited narrative.

Enduring the ruthless hierarchy of a water polo camp, a teenage boy struggles to find his place within the group. Everett Blunck stars. He is supported by Kayo Martin, Kenny Rasmussen, and Joel Edgerton.

The Plague is a character-first drama. In this regard, it is excellent. The development of its characters and the situation they’re in is incredibly intriguing. It is also an extremely accurate portrayal of a young boy’s life at the edge of puberty. It is not always easy to watch, but it uses this as a tool to convey its thrilling script.

The young boys leading the movie are simply excellent. Kayo Martin is a superstar as the central figure, but Kayo Martin gives him a run for his money as an adolescent whose motives aren’t always clear.

Touched on earlier, the only noticeable issue one may have with the film is its limited narrative. It is not a massive problem as this script puts the characters before the overarching story, but some viewers may find the lack of narrative progression to be disappointing once the credits begin to roll.

On a technical level, the film ticks every box. Steven Breckon’s cinematography is visually astounding, and Johan Lenox’s score is an aural assault fitting of the psychological events that unfold.

The Plague is a great film led by a talented director. Charlie Polinger is a man with a clear vision who will have great success in the industry if his future releases are as good as this impressive directorial debut.