The film begins with the introduction of a 22-year-old male actor named Otis (Luke Hedges). Otis is working on various blockbuster films until he encounters several frustrations. Some of these frustrations lead to him drinking heavily before being involved in a horrific car accident. Otis is having a breakdown, and he is now forced to get help.
The film goes back in time, and we see what life was like for a young 12-year-old Otis (Noah Jupe) as he was raised by his father (Shia LaBeouf). While checking into a helpful rehab facility, Otis struggles to do what is asked of him. He begins to reflect on his days as a child and remembers his upbringing by his father. The film jumps from the past to the present at various points, giving more profound insight into Otis’s upbringing. Throughout, we are taken on an insightful and yet unsettling journey showing the challenges of a young and adult Otis. The question is, will Otis be able to overcome his past and improve his mental health.
According to IMDb, Shia LaBeouf was arrested in the past and required to attend a ten-week rehab program. It was during this rehab that Shia LaBeouf wrote this very screenplay. The film gives the world a glimpse into the actor’s past, and it’s impressive that the actor plays his father in this movie.
Honey Boy is dramatic, raw, and very touching. Not just because this film was based on one man’s personal experience and upbringing with his father, but because the film also has powerful and unforgettable performances. Not a single performance can be faulted from any of the male leads here, including Shia LaBeouf, Lucas Hedges, and Noah Jupe. The film is shot well, and I felt like nothing was missing on screen. Emotions, drama and tension are all shown wonderfully here. I had a great time with the film’s audio track, which delivered multiple creative choices. These creative moments certainly felt fresh and easily kept me engaged with the drama and heartbreaking story.
Overall, this is a raw, dramatic, and highly touching film about family and mental health, and I found myself quite engaged for the entire duration. Performances are incredible from all-male leads, including Shia LaBeouf, Lucas Hedges, and young Noah Jupe. The pacing is excellent, and the film’s style and creative choices are impressive. Those who watch on blu-ray will also be treated to an impressive audio track. It might be a hard watch, but I also found myself quite touched by this story, and the film is an unforgettable cinematic experience.
8.5/10
29th July 2021
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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