Shia LaBeouf’s documentary “Slauson Rec” premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, leaving audiences and critics alike stunned by his volatile behavior towards actors and crew members in an experimental theater company. The film, which follows LaBeouf’s attempts to create a “family” of players and stimulate community engagement in South Central Los Angeles, takes a dark turn as it reveals a descent into ego-driven insanity.
According to the documentary, LaBeouf would often berate actors and crew members with sanctimonious lectures, causing tension and joy depending on his mood. One company member, Sarah, was even fired from her lead role in a drive-in play after her mother passed away, while another young actor, Zeke, quit 45 days into rehearsals after LaBeouf’s harsh criticism.
The film also shows footage of LaBeouf physically violent and emotionally abusive towards his students. In one incident, he is seen slamming a table with his fist and yelling at Zeke: “I don’t give a fuck what you say to me… You’ve got it better than I ever had it.” The behavior has raised concerns about LaBeouf’s ability to create a safe and supportive environment for young actors.
LaBeouf has given several statements on the documentary, including one where he claimed to have encouraged director Leo Lewis O’Neil to film his behavior without editorializing. However, critics argue that this excuse does not justify the inclusion of scenes that depict LaBeouf’s alleged physical violence and emotional abuse.
The film has sparked a heated debate about LaBeouf’s behavior and its impact on young actors and audiences alike. As one critic noted, “This guy has been a toxic loose cannon for years.”
Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/festivals/shia-labeouf-documentary-cannes-abuse-scenes-1236388376