‘The Plague's Charlie Polinger & Joel Edgerton Discuss Themes Of Conformity & Cruelty In Psychological Coming-Of-Age Thriller – Cannes Studio

## The Plague Within: Polinger and Edgerton Unpack Conformity and Cruelty in Chilling Coming-of-Age Thriller

Cannes, always a hotbed of cinematic innovation and challenging narratives, recently played host to the buzz surrounding "The Plague," a psychological thriller that’s burrowing its way under viewers' skin. Directed by Barnaby Clay, the film boasts a powerful duo in Charlie Polinger and Joel Edgerton, who lend their talents to a story that probes the darkest corners of adolescence and the societal pressures that can warp even the most innocent souls.

During a Cannes Studio discussion, Polinger and Edgerton delved deep into the core themes of "The Plague," shining a light on the film’s exploration of conformity, cruelty, and the suffocating atmosphere that breeds both. Here’s a closer look at what these insightful actors revealed:

A Pressure Cooker of Conformity: The Setting and Premise

"The Plague" unfolds in a small, isolated community reeling from a mysterious illness affecting its children. This backdrop serves as more than just a plot device; it's a potent metaphor for the psychological and societal pressures faced by the film’s young protagonists. The fear of contagion isn't just physical; it extends to social acceptance, peer pressure, and the desperate desire to fit in, even if it means sacrificing one's own moral compass.

As Polinger, who delivers a captivating performance as the central character, explained, “The environment is incredibly restrictive. It’s a place where individuality is not just discouraged, but actively punished. The fear of being different, of contracting the ‘plague,’ drives these kids to extremes.”

This fear, Edgerton emphasized, creates a fertile ground for manipulation and control. "The adults, often well-intentioned, are blinded by their own anxieties and inadvertently contribute to the suffocating atmosphere. They prioritize conformity over compassion, unwittingly fostering a climate where cruelty can thrive."

Cruelty as a Symptom, Not a Cause:

The film doesn't shy away from depicting acts of cruelty, but Polinger and Edgerton were keen to emphasize that these acts are not merely gratuitous. They are a direct consequence of the oppressive environment and the internalized pressure to conform.

Edgerton, whose character plays a pivotal role in shaping the narrative, remarked, “The cruelty in 'The Plague' isn’t born out of pure malice, but from a deep-seated insecurity and fear. These kids are mirroring the anxieties and prejudices they see around them. They're learning to survive in a system that values obedience above all else.”

He further added, "The film asks uncomfortable questions about how easily we can be led astray when fear takes hold. It highlights the dangers of unchecked authority and the importance of questioning the status quo, even when it’s uncomfortable.”

Coming-of-Age Under Duress: Navigating Identity in a Toxic Environment

At its heart, "The Plague" is a coming-of-age story, albeit one twisted and darkened by its unsettling context. The characters are grappling with their identities, their burgeoning sexuality, and their place in the world, all while navigating the treacherous landscape of peer pressure and societal expectations.

Polinger beautifully captures this struggle. "My character is torn between wanting to belong and recognizing the inherent wrongness of the group's actions. He's wrestling with his conscience, trying to find his own moral compass in a world that seems determined to lead him astray."

The film explores how young people, desperate for acceptance, can be manipulated into compromising their values and engaging in behaviors they later regret. It's a stark reminder of the fragility of the adolescent psyche and the profound impact that social environment can have on shaping an individual's moral character.

Beyond the Thrills: A Reflection on Society's Dark Side

While "The Plague" delivers its thrills with a compelling narrative and chilling atmosphere, Polinger and Edgerton were clear that the film aims to provoke deeper reflection on broader societal issues.

"We wanted to create a film that stays with you long after the credits roll," Polinger explained. "It's not just about the scares, but about the questions it raises about conformity, prejudice, and the potential for cruelty that exists within us all."

Edgerton echoed this sentiment, adding, "The film serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power, the importance of critical thinking, and the responsibility we all have to challenge injustice, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s about holding a mirror up to society and asking ourselves if we are complicit in creating environments where such cruelty can flourish."

The Verdict: A Must-See for Those Who Dare to Look Deeper

Based on the discussions in Cannes, "The Plague" promises to be more than just a genre exercise. It's a thought-provoking exploration of human nature, a chilling depiction of adolescence under duress, and a timely commentary on the societal pressures that can lead to conformity and cruelty. With stellar performances from Charlie Polinger and Joel Edgerton, and a director willing to delve into uncomfortable truths, "The Plague" is poised to be a film that lingers in the mind long after the lights come up. If you're seeking a film that challenges you to confront the darker aspects of human behavior, "The Plague" is a must-see. It’s a disturbing, yet ultimately important, reminder that the real plague might not be a virus, but the insidious spread of fear and conformity.