BREAKING: Joel Edgerton’s highly anticipated psychological thriller, The Plague, has just achieved a stunning 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. This perfect rating, coupled with strong critical acclaim, positions the film as a must-see in theaters right now.
Released in U.S. theaters on December 24, 2025, The Plague dives into the harrowing dynamics of a water polo camp, exploring the cruel hierarchy that ensnares a socially awkward boy. Directed by Charlie Polinger in his feature debut, the film has resonated with audiences and critics alike, reflecting its urgent themes of adolescent struggle and societal pressures.
Critics have praised Edgerton’s dual role as both actor and producer, highlighting the film’s gripping narrative and emotional depth. The Rotten Tomatoes audience score currently stands at 60%, indicating a polarized reception among viewers, while its Metacritic score is 79, signifying generally favorable reviews.
Renowned critic Keith Garlington from Keith and the Movies awarded the film a solid 4/5 rating, praising Polinger’s “remarkable vision” and the film’s ability to engage viewers with its profound subject matter. He described the experience as “a remarkable and significant big screen debut.”
Meanwhile, Jake Coyle from the Associated Press noted that The Plague is “not a comfortable watch” but essential for understanding the complexities of youth. He stated, “This is a movie that makes you all the more thankful for adulthood, just as it renews your sympathy for those still wading such daunting waters.”
Also noteworthy, Cary Darling of the Houston Chronicle called it a “gripping feature debut,” emphasizing that it creates a “nerve-jangling unease” rather than a full-blown nightmare. This sentiment echoes the film’s ability to evoke emotional responses, making it a significant entry in the thriller genre.
The film stars a talented ensemble, including Everett Blunck, Kayo Martin, and Lucas Adler, among others, enhancing the narrative’s emotional impact.
As audiences flock to theaters, The Plague stands out as a conversation starter, provoking discussions about the darker aspects of youth and societal expectations. With its impressive critical reception, this film is poised to draw even larger crowds in the coming weeks.
What to watch for: Keep an eye on evolving audience reactions and box office performance as more viewers experience this impactful film. Expect discussions around its themes to grow, further solidifying The Plague‘s position in contemporary cinema.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story!
