Joel Edgerton, reflecting on his experiences with young children, humorously noted, “I have two almost 4-year-olds, and I’m quite powerful and influential in certain circles, but not with two 4-year-olds. Kids run their own country, in a way.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of Edgerton’s latest film endeavor, “The Plague,” which marks the directorial debut of Charlie Polinger.
Exploring the World of Competitive Youth Water Polo
The film delves into the intense environment of a summer water polo camp, highlighting the intricate social dynamics among a group of boys aged 12 and 13. At the heart of the story is Ben (Everett Blunck), who grapples with the dilemma of befriending a marginalized camper, shunned by others for his visible case of eczema. Edgerton portrays the well-meaning but ineffective water polo coach, navigating the challenges of guiding young minds.
A Timely Reflection on Youth and Social Dynamics
In a contemplation of masculinity and social constructs, THR critic Lovia Gyarkye remarked, “In the age of renewed questions about and considerations of the manosphere, The Plague is a prescient title.” With its debut at Cannes 2025 in the Un Certain Regard section, interest in the film is burgeoning.
Edgerton’s Journey as a Multifaceted Artist
Joel Edgerton is not just an accomplished actor—known for his versatility in roles from Baz Luhrmann’s “The Great Gatsby” to Paul Schrader’s “The Master Gardener” —but also an accomplished filmmaker. His prior work, “The Gift,” earned him a Directors Guild of America nomination.
Diving into the Mind of a Preteen
Engaging with THR, Edgerton conveyed his deep interest in the complex transition from child to adult, highlighting the dilemma of adolescent innocence. “There is an untethered, unchecked period of our life,” he stated, emphasizing how personal experiences shape their understanding of the world. He believes the film’s central journey cleverly illustrates this universal exploration.
The Allure of the Script
Edgerton was drawn to the script due to its nuanced portrayal of social instincts among children. He reflected, “Children might be unaware of the consequences of their actions, yet they excel in socio-diplomacy.” Observing how children navigate their social environment sheds light on the complexities of growth and empathy, especially as embodied in Ben’s character.
The Unique Challenges of Working with Young Actors
Contrary to the filmmaking adage that suggests avoiding kids and animals, Edgerton relished the opportunity to collaborate primarily with young actors. He found them to be refreshingly honest and perceptive. “Kayo [Martin], who plays the bully, could run rings around me,” he noted, illustrating the unpredictability and creativity children bring to a set.
Children: The Rulers of Their Own Domain
Edgerton pointed out that while adults impose their rules on children to prepare them for the future, kids naturally cultivate their own societal norms. “An adult like my character becomes a foreigner within their country,” he explained, acknowledging the unique perspective children hold on their social world.
A Glimpse into the Horror of Childhood
Discussing the film’s darker themes, Edgerton remarked on the harrowing experience of pre-adolescence, likening it to “a documentary of a depleting watering hole in the African savanna.” In doing so, he captured the raw and unpredictable nature of childhood dynamics.
The Water Polo Camp Setting: A Thoughtful Choice
Setting the story within a water polo camp serves as a potent backdrop for the film’s exploration of childhood. Edgerton noted that the specificity of the sport enhances the narrative’s cultural depth, drawing parallels to his own childhood experiences. “Childhood is replete with sentimental moments and significant trauma, leaving enduring marks,” he concluded.