Independent Film Company announced today that they have acquired the North American distribution rights to The Plague, a haunting psychological thriller that dives into the realm of adolescent sports. The Plague has been set for a limited theatrical release on December 24, 2025, expanding on January 2, 2026. The thriller made its debut at Cannes […]
Independent Film Company announced today that they have acquired the North American distribution rights to The Plague, a haunting psychological thriller that dives into the realm of adolescent sports.
The Plague has been set for a limited theatrical release on December 24, 2025, expanding on January 2, 2026.
The thriller made its debut at Cannes Film Festival, where it received an 11-minute standing ovation and won the Best Sound Creation Award.
“At an all-boys water polo camp, a socially anxious twelve-year-old is pulled into a cruel tradition targeting an outcast with an illness they call ‘The Plague.’ But as the lines between game and reality blur, he fears the joke might be hiding something real,” the fest’s logline reads.
The Plague was written and directed by Charlie Polinger, making his feature debut.
It stars Joel Edgerton (The Green Knight, The Gift), who also produces, alongside newcomers Everett Blunck, Kayo Martin, and Kenny Rasmussen.
Said Director Charlie Polinger “Premiering The Plague at Cannes was a dream. I’m thrilled to share it with a wider theatrical audience through Independent Film Company, who’ve championed so many of my favorite films.”
“Independent Film Company is a perfect partner for this incredible first feature debut of Charlie Polinger and I could not be more proud to have my name in the credits of this incredible project. From script to completion this film has always had a very strong vision. Charlie is a filmmaker with a great future ahead. I’m proud to have been part of his first film along with these incredible producers and companies,” said Joel Edgerton.
Said Head of IFC Entertainment Group Scott Shooman, “ The Plague’s hypnotic and captivating psychological dive into sports, competition and adolescence is one of the most riveting debut films we’ve ever seen. The technical craftsmanship and excellent performances captured our attention and solidified our desire to collaborate on the launch of this impressive film from a talented auteur visionary.”
