Shia LaBeouf’s ‘Slauson Rec’ Documentary Reveals Controversial Teaching Methods

Los Angeles, CA — Shia LaBeouf is set to release a new documentary that provides an in-depth look at his unconventional teaching methods at the Slauson Rec Center’s experimental theater company. The film, titled ‘Slauson Rec,’ showcases intense interactions between LaBeouf and his students, highlighting his dynamic yet controversial approach to education.

The trailer depicts LaBeouf passionately engaging with students, sometimes resorting to aggressive expressions, including slamming his fist on a table. While the documentary showcases his methods, LaBeouf has clarified that he is not involved in its creative process, but he fully supports its release.

A representative for LaBeouf confirmed that he encouraged director Lewis O'Neil, a former member of the theater company, to share his experience authentically. In a statement, LaBeouf said, “I gave Leo this camera and encouraged him to share his vision and his personal experience without edit. I am aware of the doc and fully support the release of the film. 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.”

The documentary aims to explore the complex power dynamics within the theater collective, which operated from 2018 to 2020. O’Neil described his experience with the company, noting that LaBeouf’s involvement consumed both their lives, often leading to high-pressure situations that resulted in moments of dramatics and explosiveness.

“We were there every day, and that pressure really just built and built and built,” O’Neil told Vanity Fair. “Until you had these moments of explosiveness.” O’Neil also confirmed that LaBeouf participated in an interview for the film, granting his approval after viewing a rough cut.

Despite LaBeouf’s enthusiasm for the project, his past remains a subject of scrutiny. He has faced allegations of physical and emotional abuse, including a lawsuit from ex-girlfriend FKA Twigs, who accused him of abusive behavior during their relationship from 2018 to 2019. LaBeouf has categorically denied these allegations and previously admitted to a history of emotional harm toward those close to him. “I have been abusive to myself and everyone around me for years. I’m ashamed of that history,” he stated in a 2020 New York Times interview.

As the release of ‘Slauson Rec’ approaches, O’Neil’s documentary holds the potential to spark discussions around artistic expression and the bounds of mentorship in creative settings. A trial date related to LaBeouf’s ongoing legal issues is set for this September.