Shia LaBeouf, Slauson Rec Documentary: Everything We Know

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I, as a follower, am sharing that Shia LaBeouf is back at the Cannes Film Festival, but not in his usual role as an actor. Instead, he’s the focus of a documentary by first-time filmmaker Leo Lewis O’Neil titled “Slauson Rec“. Contrary to what one might expect, this film doesn’t just show LaBeouf’s challenging side; it delves deeper, making the portrayal more accurate as a “Hearts of Darkness” reenactment for him. This film, which seems strange and hostile, chronicles an unusual journey where Shia LaBeouf, who planned to host a weekly theater workshop in 2018 for aspiring actors and filmmakers like O’Neil, ended up becoming the star of his own documentary instead. The question remains: what is the true essence of this documentary, and why were viewers at Cannes Film Festival leaving during the screening?

What is Slauson Rec about?

The documentary titled “Slauson Rec” focuses on Shia LaBeouf’s experimental theater group of the same name, and it paints an unfavorable portrait of him. Established in 2018, Slauson Rec was initially intended as a free weekly theater workshop in South Central Los Angeles, but unfortunately, it became a platform for LaBeouf’s recent scandals.

In the initial stages, a filmmaker named Leo Lewis O’Neil from Los Angeles stepped forward to document the group and served as its archivist. Over three years, he recorded the chaos that ensued, which later became his directorial debut at Cannes. However, throughout the movie, LaBeouf is seen verbally abusing and even physically harming his trainees.

A woman named Sarah grapples with juggling rehearsals and caring for her ailing mother, but when her mother passes away, LaBeouf dismisses her from the group. Another member, Zeke, eventually lands a role on “On My Block,” and their disagreements escalate into a physical altercation, while at another point, LaBeouf shoves Zeke against the wall.

How did the audience at Cannes react to the doc?

The film appears to be causing unease among viewers. According to Variety, approximately 30 people walked out of the screening, and several critics who viewed it at Cannes have voiced discomfort. Owen Gleiberman from Variety stated, “It’s not just the physical abuse he inflicts on these individuals (at various instances). It’s that the entire spectacle begins to feel purposeless.” The film’s intention, as implied by Variety, is to depict a well-known star in a state of collapse. However, the tabloid nature of Slauson Rec lies in its transformation of the star’s self-destruction into a theatrical performance, even when he behaves abusively towards the trusting individuals in the film.

In simpler terms, critics such as Christian Zilko from Indie Wire and David Fear from Rolling Stone have described Shia LaBeouf’s behavior as abusive and erratic. Christian Zilko portrays LaBeouf’s escalating agitation towards a group as leading to explosive anger, physical violence, and appalling actions. David Fear from Rolling Stone adds that while O’Neil’s film seems to be an expression of affection for his former mentor, LaBeouf appears as a monstrous figure. However, The Hollywood Reporter acknowledges the film’s positive aspects, praising its sensitive cinematography, sharp editing, and dynamic energy flow, with Shia LaBeouf’s intense acting style permeating almost every scene in the movie.

What has Shia LaBeouf said about the film?

As a passionate cinephile, I proudly stand behind the upcoming release of the film, acknowledging that it may reveal some of my less-than-perfect aspects. In an interview with Vanity Fair, I explained, “I handed Leo the camera and urged him to express his unique vision and personal experiences without censorship. I wholeheartedly endorse the distribution of this documentary. Though my teaching methods might seem unorthodox to some, I am immensely proud of the remarkable achievements these kids have made. Together, we transformed a drama class into an acting troupe. I wish only the best for Leo and everyone associated with The Slauson Rec Company.” Regarding director O’Neil, our relationship is complex, but my feelings towards Leo are nothing but love. As I told THR, “Leo and I may not be married or anything, but we share a deep affection. There’s no other way to capture some of these moments as authentically as he did.

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2025-05-20 06:54