Drama
United States of America
Honey Boy is a 2019 film directed by Alma Har’el and written by Shia LaBeouf. The movie confronts LaBeouf’s childhood trauma and relationship with his father, an ex-rodeo clown and convicted felon. The film is loosely based on LaBeouf’s life and tells the story of Otis Lort (played by Noah Jupe and Lucas Hedges), a child actor who stars in a popular TV series, and his complicated relationship with his father, James Lort (played by LaBeouf himself).
After a car accident, Otis is forced to live with his father in a run-down motel in California, where he struggles to deal with his father’s alcoholism, drug abuse, and violent behavior. James, a former rodeo clown and ex-convict, is a deeply troubled man who resents his son’s success and blames him for his own failures. Despite their tumultuous relationship, Otis tries to reconnect with his father and understand his past, while James attempts to make amends for his past mistakes and become a better parent.
The movie explores themes of family, addiction, trauma, and forgiveness, and features strong performances from the cast, especially LaBeouf, who delivers a raw and emotional portrayal of his own father. The film received critical acclaim and was praised for its authenticity, honesty, and compelling storytelling.
