Michael Shannon and Judy Greer Reveal Shocking Truths Behind ‘Eric LaRue’!

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Michael Shannon and Judy Greer initially worked together in the charming tribute to small-town life, “Pottersville,” in 2017. They reunited as actors in an episode of the Duplass brothers’ anthology series, “Room 104.” However, for Shannon’s first film directorial venture, “Eric LaRue,” Shannon is now directing Greer instead.

The film, adapted from Brett Neveu’s 2002 stage play, revolves around Janice (Greer), the mother of a school shooter, dealing with the aftermath of the tragedy. Struggling to visit her son and navigating the community fallout, Greer delivers an emotionally charged performance that showcases a different side of the actor known for her comedic roles. This is also a new direction for Shannon, who previously declared he would never direct films.

“Eric LaRue” boasts an impressive cast including Alexander Skarsgård and Tracy Letts, and will be released in limited theaters on April 4. In an interview with EbMaster, the duo opened up about the movie, revealing their sharp wit in addition to their talent. Sometimes, it’s hard to tell if they’re joking at first due to their exceptional acting skills. They also discussed the challenging material, their first encounter, and Shannon’s thoughts on “13 Going on 30.

You’ve worked together, but do you remember when you first met?

Greer: It was “Pottersville.” At least that’s the first time I remember meeting you.

But surely you knew each other and had opinions of one another’s work.

Me: Over the years, prior to “Pottersville,” I noticed that you had been closely following my career and personal life as a devoted supporter.

You didn’t catch me at my best on my first day of work. I was so nervous I needed a baseball as a prop.
However, “Pottersville” was filmed in Hamilton, New York, and we effectively took over the town for a month. It was an absolute blast! Michael Shannon had connections with the crew, and they invited me to join. They said, “Have you met Michael Shannon? We want to create a movie that showcases his sweet, kind, and hilarious nature to the world. People often perceive him as cold and brooding, but he’s actually a wonderful person deep down.

Michael, did you know that they that they built this whole movie basically around changing your image?

Shannon: I appreciated the assistance. People often perceive me as intimidating, but I can’t comprehend why. I assure you, I wouldn’t harm a single ant. However, it’s true that her professional work wasn’t something I was particularly knowledgeable about before working with you. After our collaboration, I did catch up on some of her movies, especially the romantic comedies she’s been part of.


Oh, I was kind of hoping you were a big “13 Going on 30” fan.

Shannon: It’s not exactly my cup of tea, but I did catch it recently. While working on “The End” in Ireland, my daughters dropped by. We ended up watching “13 Going on 30”, and for the first time, I could truly understand it.

Michael, I’m curious about your history with “Eric LaRue” because I could be wrong, but I feel like you once told me you would never direct, or you just weren’t interested in directing.

Greer: During our collaboration on “Pottersville,” I asked him if he had ever considered directing a film, to which he responded negatively. However, before the swear jar, I had dabbled in theater direction occasionally. Film, however, seemed too daunting for someone like me. Yet, I was captivated by “Eric LaRue” at our Chicago theater, Red Orchid. Brett’s unique writing style drew me in, and years later, I was directing a play he wrote called “Traitor.” On the final night of “Traitor,” he handed me the script for “Eric LaRue.” Reading it, I felt an unexplainable barrier dissolve regarding film directing. I thought to myself, “I must direct this. If I only direct one movie in my life, it has to be this.”

Greer: Upon receiving the script, I was astounded that you chose me out of everyone you know. I was also apprehensive — about the subject matter and what it meant for Mike and for me. But Mike would discuss the themes and meanings with me, explaining our story’s significance. Mike is a remarkable individual, both as an actor and thinker, and I knew it was going to be extraordinary. He perceives things in a straightforward yet profound manner. It’s been wonderful hearing him talk about it again during press, and given the current challenges, there couldn’t be a better time to share stories like this that hold meaning.
Shannon: The timing seems almost serendipitous because the film premiered at Tribeca a few years ago, but we had trouble distributing it. Oh, forgive me for my language. Nevertheless, I believe it’s coming out at the ideal moment, don’t you?

Greer: I’m not boasting, but as I had mentioned earlier, things will be revealed when they are ready. And it seems that’s happening now.


Judy, after all that nice stuff you said, you should probably say something a little mean, just to make Michael feel comfortable.

Greer: It was really hard on set. So much swearing all the time.

Shannon: At least I never threw anything in your direction.

Greer: No, not in my direction.

This cast is made up of so many great actors you know. Did anyone actually audition, or did you know who you wanted for every part?

While perusing the script, I found myself repeatedly thinking, “This individual would be perfect for this role.” It stirred memories of my creative companions, which is part of what inspired me to take on the director’s chair.

What about Nation Sage Henrickson, who is phenomenal as Eric and has never done a movie before?

In the play I directed, Shannon portrayed the character Eric in “Traitor.” From the get-go, I instinctively recognized him for the role.

Greer: This movie has a lot of foreign value. I hear he’s big in the Maldives.

I’ve seen a lot of people say that Judy is cast against type in this film but I’ve seen you do so many dramatic roles.

Greer: I appreciate your sentiments – if it assists in attracting audiences, I’m on board. However, this isn’t a romantic comedy, which are some of my more popular roles. I’m unsure Mike would have wanted me for this part unless he believed I could handle the drama.
Shannon: It’s always delightful to work with Judy. She brings a sense of relief. There might have been a list of actors often associated with significant, dramatic roles like this. I call them the regular suspects, and they arrive ready to deliver drama. Yet, I didn’t desire that. Instead, I sought someone who could add depth. Honestly, I was searching for an actor like Janice, who was not what one might expect. Judy is also surprising in her own way.
Greer: I wouldn’t say I hesitated to participate in the film, but I did ponder how I could relate to this character. I once played a role that I struggle with morally, and it was challenging to connect with that woman. But there are countless individuals in the world, and I wish to portray them all. I may not understand what it’s like to be a mother of someone who commits such acts, thankfully, but I believe she deserves a story too. While researching for this role, I discovered things about mothers of school shooters that were unexpected.
Shannon: I frequently discuss this movie on both a personal and societal level. On a personal level, it’s about the family and characters. But on a broader scale, it’s about society as a whole. I believe there’s a significant issue in our country with holding people responsible for their actions or current situations. The blame game is rampant in this nation. Many wish to discuss gun control, which is a crucial debate. However, parallel to that conversation is the discussion of why there’s so much alienation and loneliness in our society that seems full of good, honest, hardworking people. There’s an underlying pain driving individuals to commit horrific acts against one another. How do we locate the source of this pain, and what can we do about it?

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2025-04-04 19:17