Michael Shannon Directs ‘Eric LaRue’: A Gripping Take on Tragedy and Humor

CHICAGO — Veteran actor Michael Shannon makes his film directorial debut with “Eric LaRue,” a striking adaptation of Brett Neveu’s play about the aftermath of a school shooting. Premiering at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, the film stars Judy Greer as Janice LaRue, the mother of a perpetrator, navigating grief and community pressures in a fictional Midwestern town.

Shannon, who co-founded the A Red Orchid Theatre where the original play premiered 23 years ago, reflects on his journey: “At that time, Brett was just starting out as a playwright. I mean, we were all so young,” he said. The evolution of the story, due to the increase in school shootings over time, adds weight to its contemporary relevance.

In Neveu’s narrative, Janice is urged by conflicting religious leaders from rival churches to confront the mothers of her son’s three victims, leading to an intense exploration of personal and collective trauma. As Neveu describes, this film is “not just topical in a way that would fade quickly.” He emphasizes that the themes have become more resonant in light of contemporary societal issues.

Shannon envisions the film’s pacing and editing to convey the emotional landscape. “I was very meticulous about that in the edit. It was all about frames,” Shannon explained. His attention to detail reflects his dedication to the project and desire to convey authentic emotion without resorting to melodrama.

Critics have noted the film’s mix of dark humor amid its heavy themes. “There’s a queasy absurdity to what Janice endures from those around her,” said Neveu, discussing the balance of seriousness and humor. Shannon added, “People are smart; they know there’s a pressure valve connected to a kind of absurdity in dark situations.”

After a tough two-year search for a distributor, “Eric LaRue” will be released by Magnolia Pictures, allowing a wider audience to engage with its layered narrative. Shannon expressed hope about the film’s release coinciding with a period where discussions around grief and responsibility are more essential than ever.

Looking ahead, Neveu is set to embark on several new projects, including a film titled “Brilliant Blue” that involves high school students and aims to serve as a mentoring initiative. He also noted an upcoming script, “Better World,” which he is co-writing with Shannon and Greer.

In addition to his directing role, Shannon continues to act, with projects like “Nuremberg” and a Netflix series titled “Death by Lightning” where he plays President James A. Garfield. Despite the challenges posed by a shifting market for films, he remains optimistic, encouraged by recent successes like the Academy Award-winning film “Anora.” “The timing feels right to me somehow,” Shannon concluded.

The film opens in theaters on April 4 at the Gene Siskel Film Center and will be available for streaming on April 11.