Blame 2018

Abigail begins her journey lying in bed, reluctant to return to high school, referenced only as “MHS”. In her bedroom, she has a copy of “Sybil,” hinting at her struggles. During a meeting with her parents and Ms. Cohen, it is decided that she needs to get back to her routine as soon as possible, with her parents in agreement.

Meanwhile, the character of Melissa, played by Nadia Alexander, is introduced as a rebellious cheerleader whose vibrant, multicolored hair and heavy makeup reflect her defiance. She lives with Robert, a man who emphasizes the importance of school and tells her to get out of bed. However, Melissa reacts defiantly, asserting “He’s not my father,” revealing the nature of their relationship as guardianship rather than parenthood.

As Abigail enters the school environment, she encounters Melissa and her friends Sophie and Ellie, who mock her with the nickname “Psycho Sybil,” linking it to her limp. In class with Mrs. Howell, Abigail reveals her fascination with glass animals, showcasing her unique yet fragile perspective in a world where she feels out of place.

In a surprising twist, Eric, a classmate played by Owen Campbell, expresses interest in Abigail, asking for her number, but the moment quickly turns tense when he jokes about her multiple personalities. The next day, the classroom dynamic shifts as Jeremy Woods takes over Mrs. Howell’s class after she goes into labor. Instead of following the lesson plan, Jeremy decides that the class will perform “The Crucible” for the Drama Showcase, stirring excitement and competition among the students. He assigns Abigail the lead role of Abigail, which makes Melissa, who perceives Eric as her boyfriend, irritated and possessive.

Outside of school, Jeremy faces pressure from his friend Jennifer, who questions his commitment to teaching versus pursuing acting. Their relationship seems strained, with Jennifer expressing her disappointment that he doesn’t have long-term goals. Meanwhile, Abigail retreats into her artistic and eerie world, lighting candles in her room and creating spooky art that reflects her inner turmoil.

As rehearsals get under way, Abigail’s talent begins to shine through, and she’s given the opportunity to learn more about the production process. Despite missing some key players like Eric and Melissa during practice, Jeremy’s encouragement helps Abigail excel. As preparations for the football game and the drama performance ramp up, we see a glimpse of Melissa’s secretive plans to take revenge on Abigail.

Their rivalry intensifies when Melissa and her friends turn on Abigail, drinking and partying while plotting against her. When Eric apologizes to Abigail for missing a rehearsal, his intentions remain questionable as ulterior motives come to light. In a series of events marked by bullying and manipulation, Abigail becomes more committed to her character, even dressing like her onstage persona, leading to further tensions with Melissa.

Jeremy and Abigail’s bond deepens during rehearsals, culminating in a close moment when they must perform a kiss, prompting rumors about their relationship. Meanwhile, Sophie begins to piece together evidence of inappropriate conduct between Abigail and Jeremy, creating a mystery that spreads through the school like wildfire.

As the performance looms, tensions escalate, and Melissa makes a crucial decision that could change everything. She confronts Jeremy, claiming inappropriate actions and exposing her own trauma, which reveals the darker side of her relationship with Robert, showing a disturbing cycle of abuse. This dramatic turn of events leads to Melissa feeling isolated, while Abigail, who has already put in so much effort, appears at the performance just in time.

In the end, the story navigates complex themes of identity, relationships, and the consequences of misunderstandings, culminating in a dramatic performance that leaves school dynamics and personal lives forever altered. As the characters’ secrets unravel and tensions reach a breaking point, the film explores the blurred lines of friendship, rivalry, and the search for identity in an unforgiving high school environment.