David Mamet Returns with ‘Henry Johnson,’ Starring Shia LaBeouf

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Acclaimed playwright and filmmaker David Mamet is set to return to the big screen with his newest film, ‘Henry Johnson,’ which will debut on May 9, 2025. This marks Mamet’s first film release in over a decade, following his 2013 television movie featuring Al Pacino.

Reuniting the original cast from his 2023 stage production, the film stars Evan Jonigkeit, Shia LaBeouf, Chris Bauer, and Dominic Hoffman. The trailer, exclusively released by IndieWire, teases an intense exploration of moral ambiguity and manipulation in a prison setting.

‘Henry Johnson’ follows the titular character, played by Jonigkeit, as he embarks on a journey to find his moral compass after an unexpected act of compassion derails his life. As he navigates encounters with various authority figures, including his eventual cellmate Gene, portrayed by LaBeouf, Henry is drawn into a web of ethical dilemmas.

Mamet’s renowned theatrical style is anticipated to transition smoothly to the screen, especially given the accolades he received for the stage version, which critics praised for its gripping narrative and strong performances. LaBeouf’s portrayal of Gene earned particular acclaim, with one review describing him as ‘tortured and slightly volatile,’ exuding ‘a delicious unpredictability.’

The film is a collaborative project with Mamet directing and producing alongside Jonigkeit and notable producers like Peter Baxter and Sheldon Stone. Shot over a concise period of less than a week, the film echoes Mamet’s ability to churn out compelling narratives efficiently.

Despite a history of controversy surrounding Mamet’s artistic and political views, his work continues to attract attention. His indie approach to releasing ‘Henry Johnson’ reflects a determined effort to reach audiences without the backing of major studios. The film will be available for rentals via its official website, alongside a theatrical release at The Aero theatre in Los Angeles.

The narrative not only resonates within the framework of a traditional prison drama but also delves deep into themes of power and justice, challenging viewers to consider the implications of allowing others to dictate one’s moral decisions.

Mamet’s storied career includes staples such as ‘Glengarry Glen Ross,’ which is currently enjoying a revival on Broadway, and several Oscar-nominated screenplays. Fans of his work are eager to see if ‘Henry Johnson’ reconnects with the magic of his earlier successes.

As the May 9 release date approaches, excitement builds around what Mamet has crafted in his return to film. Whether he can capture audiences once again remains to be seen, but early indications from the trailer suggest that ‘Henry Johnson’ will not shy away from provoking thought and discussion.