
Set against the backdrop of the early 1950s, "Indignation" follows Marcus Messner, a diligent and introspective young man from a working-class Jewish family in New Jersey. As Marcus embarks on his college journey at a conservative institution in Ohio, portrayed vividly through Logan Lerman's compelling performance, he is confronted with a society rife with ingrained prejudices and rigid expectations.
Throughout his time at college, Marcus grapples with the challenges of anti-Semitism that lurk beneath the surface of his academic environment. At the same time, he navigates the complexities of sexual repression in a time when societal norms tightly constrain personal freedom and expression. His relationship with Olivia Hutton, played by Sarah Gadon, opens a window into his desire for connection and understanding amid these oppressive forces.
Amid these personal struggles, the looming presence of the Korean War adds a layer of existential tension to Marcus's story. The war symbolizes the larger conflicts of identity, duty, and morality that the young student must face. "Indignation" is a poignant exploration of youth and resilience in a challenging era, illustrating how one individual's experience reflects broader social and historical currents.