Shia LaBeouf recently weighed in on a new documentary, Slauson Rec, which explores his acting school and includes claims of misconduct. The film is directed by former student Leo Lewis O’Neil. It features footage of LaBeouf’s interactions with students, including alleged instances of physical aggression.
Shia LeBeouf supports acting school documentary
Although the film reportedly portrays his controversial teaching style, Shia LaBeouf has expressed his support for Slauson Rec, a documentary about his former acting school. In a statement to Vanity Fair, LaBeouf acknowledged that he had encouraged director Leo Lewis O’Neil, a former student, to document the experience.
LaBeouf said, “I gave Leo this camera and encouraged him to share his vision and his personal experience without edit.” He admitted that his teaching methods might not be for everyone but emphasized his pride in the students’ work. LaBeouf added, “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.” (via Vanity Fair)
Slauson Rec delves into the rise and fall of LaBeouf’s acting school. It operated from 2018 to 2020 at the Slauson Recreational Center in Los Angeles. The film’s synopsis reads, “What started as an open, egalitarian workshop quickly evolved into intense daily rehearsals led by Shia, pushing participants to their limits.”
O’Neil, who recorded over 800 hours of footage, captured instances of LaBeouf initiating altercations with students. One alleged incident involved a heated exchange with a student named Zeke, which escalated to LaBeouf shoving him against a wall. A teaser clip shows Zeke reflecting on the event and displaying visible injuries he claims resulted from the encounter.
The documentary highlights how what began as an open workshop gradually became an intense environment under LaBeouf’s leadership. Currently seeking distribution, Slauson Rec offers an inside look at the rise and fall of the school.
Originally reported by Disheeta Maheshwari on ComingSoon.
