The biggest film festival in the world is currently underway in Cannes, and while there are a heap of incredible new releases being screened for the first time, there is one documentary that has tongues wagging. It’s called Slauson Rec, and it depicts what it was like inside actor ‘s experimental theatre company of the same name.
While the film wasn’t necessarily a glowing review of LaBeouf’s coaching tactics, the actor came to the festival to support the film’s director,, who compiled the documentary using raw footage from inside the theatre company.
Although the film seems to capture an unusual dynamic, it wasn’t like O’Neil snuck in a camera and secretly filmed what went down. Back in 2018, LaBeouf posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) about a free theatre workshop every weekend at a recreation centre in Los Angeles.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, around 200 people — mostly fans of LaBeouf’s method acting antics — showed up. However, while most of the attendees were looking to add some skills to their acting arsenal, O’Neil was “desperate to be part of anything” LaBeouf did and wanted to document the experimental school.
For several years, he stood by capturing the highs and lows of the school and LaBeouf himself — including many moments where the reportedly tumultuous actor and director has outbursts at his students.
You can check out the trailer below.
Although the documentary reportedly features some not-so-flattering moments for LaBeouf, O’Neil’s filming was completely consensual and LaBeouf says he’s supportive of the film.
“I gave Leo this camera and encouraged him to share his vision and his personal experience without edit,” LaBeouf said to Vanity Fair in a statement back in April.
“I am aware of the doc and fully support the release of the film. While my teaching methods may be unconventional for some, I am proud of the incredible accomplishments that these kids achieved. Together, we turned a drama class into an acting company. I wish only good things for Leo and everyone who was part of The Slauson Rec Company.”
— Variety (@Variety) May 18, 2025
According to Vanity Fair, which interviewed O’Neil, the film features moments where LaBeouf initiated physical altercations with students at the theatre company.
“I felt a sense of responsibility—like I had to capture every thread, every moment,” O’Neil told the publication.
“My role in the group was to capture everything, and I really stayed true to that role even in moments when it was difficult.”
The theatre company eventually disbanded in 2021.
In a chat with The Hollywood Reporter before the premiere, Shia LaBeouf was clear about his shortcomings during his theatre company days.
“When this thing comes out, it isn’t any worse than what’s been said about me previously,” LaBeouf said.
“Maybe it reifies people’s ideas about me. I think, at heart, I’m a good guy. Am I fucked up? Yes. Is my process ugly and disgusting? Yes. Have I done horrible shit in the past that I’m going to have to make amends for the rest of my life? Yes.
“Does this movie change any of that? No. Does it also allow my people to get a foot into this fucking industry? Yes. So gas pedal down, green light go.”
Slauson Rec premiered at Cannes. However, an official release date has not been announced by O’Neil just yet.
