On April 3, 2025, director Michael Shannon and actress Judy Greer discussed their latest film, "Eric LaRue," during an interview with Linsey Davis of ABC News. This film marks Shannon's directorial debut, focusing on the emotional aftermath faced by the parents of a school shooter. The film, which opens in select theaters on April 4, aims to explore the differing paths that parents take toward healing after such a tragedy.
Shannon, known for his acclaimed performances, initially swore he would never direct a movie, viewing it as an enormous hassle. However, his perspective changed dramatically when playwright Brett Neveu handed him a script on the closing night of a play they had worked on together back in 2018. "For some reason, when I read it, I just felt it very deeply in my bones," Shannon shared, emphasizing his desire to nurture and protect the story.
The film is based on Neveu's play, which premiered at A Red Orchid Theatre in 2002, long before the tragic events of Columbine, Sandy Hook, or Parkland. Neveu's story, which delves into the anguish following a school shooting, has remained strikingly relevant over the years. Shannon expressed his hope that the film adaptation would reignite important conversations about these tragedies, stating, "I feel like we’re caught in the loop, and I want to get out of this loop." He added that the emotional weight of the film is something he hopes audiences will engage with.
The narrative centers around Janice, played by Judy Greer, a mother grappling with the horrific reality that her son, Eric, has killed three classmates. Greer's performance has been hailed as one of her best, showcasing her ability to convey deep sorrow and complexity. Critics have noted that her portrayal is both raw and devastating, particularly in scenes where she meets with the mothers of the victims.
In a separate interview, Greer discussed her role, stating, "This is a stunning performance, among the best of the year so far, so definitely seek it out!" She emphasized the weight of the character and the emotional challenges of portraying a mother in such a harrowing situation. Greer’s character, Janice, navigates her grief in isolation, contrasting sharply with her husband Ron, played by Alexander Skarsgård, who seeks solace in religion.
The film explores the different ways Janice and Ron cope with their son’s actions. While Janice isolates herself, Ron turns to his church community, seeking comfort and understanding from Pastor Verne, played by Tracy Letts. Their contrasting approaches to grief create tension within their relationship, particularly as they navigate meetings with the mothers of Eric's victims. This dynamic is pivotal, as it highlights the complexities of healing and forgiveness in the aftermath of tragedy.
Shannon has noted that he chose not to cast the “usual” dramatic actresses for the role of Janice, wanting someone who would bring a fresh perspective to the character. He described Greer as a “national treasure,” emphasizing his belief that she could deliver a performance far beyond the comedic roles she is often given. Shannon stated, "I don’t think there are words for what Judy does in this movie. I’ve never seen an actor give as much as she did."
Notably, the film was shot in 2022 in Wilmington, North Carolina, after Shannon decided to relocate the production from Arkansas due to the state's newly enacted abortion laws. This decision reflects Shannon's commitment to creating a film that resonates with contemporary audiences, as he pointed out, "To my knowledge, we’re the only movie that did that."
As the film approaches its release, both Shannon and Greer are eager for audiences to experience the emotional depth of "Eric LaRue." The film not only sheds light on the personal struggles of those affected by such tragedies but also serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing conversations surrounding gun violence and its aftermath.
"Eric LaRue" will run at the Gene Siskel Film Center from April 4-11, 2025, before becoming available for rent on streaming platforms like Apple TV and Prime Video starting April 11. As the film opens, it invites viewers into a difficult but necessary exploration of grief, faith, and the long road to healing in the wake of unimaginable loss.
In a world increasingly affected by gun violence, Shannon and Neveu's adaptation of "Eric LaRue" serves as an important conversation starter, challenging audiences to reflect on the complexities of healing and the impact of tragedy on families and communities.
