At Cannes 2025, prominent discussions include violence against women and the experiences of children in distress. Focusing on the film 'The Plague' by debut filmmaker Charlie Polinger, the narrative delves into bullying through the lens of young boys at a summer water polo camp. The film explores complex themes of empathy and cruelty as protagonist Ben gradually recognizes the targeted torment faced by Eli. The setting of 2003 provides important context for the bullying depicted, resonating with contemporary parental concerns around youth behavior.
Ben is clearly an empathetic young man, conveyed through Blunck's concerned approach to another kid named Eli, one who the group has determined has 'the plague.'
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