Leo Lewis O’Neil’s documentary “Slauson Rec” recently premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about films in the lineup after receiving a two-minute ovation in the Cannes Classics section. The documentary examines an experimental theater company led by actor Shia LaBeouf, who was in attendance during the screening.
The film chronicles a 2018 endeavor aimed at fostering a creative “family” and stimulating the arts community in South Central Los Angeles. However, instead of a joyous celebration of creativity, viewers are taken on a turbulent journey rife with ego clashes, physical confrontations, and emotional turmoil among members of the theater group.
LaBeouf, who has faced significant personal and professional challenges, shared some reflections during the premiere. “I’ve done a lot of coming to terms with the failure that was my life, and the plastic foundation I had,” he stated, acknowledging the repercussions of his actions on those around him.
The film reveals gripping anecdotes from the company, including a poignant story involving a member named Sarah. While coping with her mother’s illness, she lands a lead role in a play but is later dismissed by LaBeouf just weeks before the show opens. Another young actor, Zeke, faced intense criticism from LaBeouf to the point of quitting, culminating in a physical altercation that showcases LaBeouf’s volatile behavior.
Director O’Neil embarked on this project at LaBeouf’s request, capturing the highs and lows of the acting group over multiple years. Notably, he recorded raw moments of LaBeouf’s confrontational style, which raised eyebrows and led to audience members leaving the screening mid-show. LaBeouf supported the documentary’s unedited release, stating he was proud of the creative achievements within the group despite his unconventional methods.
Despite the film’s darker themes, it presents an opportunity for growth and healing for all involved, especially as LaBeouf expresses pride in the work accomplished by his students. The intersection of art, personal struggles, and emotional resilience displayed in “Slauson Rec” offers a reflective space for audiences to consider the complexities of creative collaboration.
As the festival concludes, “Slauson Rec” stands out, not just as a portrayal of a tumultuous artistic journey, but as a possibility for transformation and understanding in the world of performance art.