Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Drama about school shooting has confusing message.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Eric LaRue
What's the Story?
ERIC LARUE follows Janice LaRue (Judy Greer), a mother who's in turmoil as she tries to pick up the pieces of her life. Her son, Eric (Nation Sage Henrikson), is incarcerated for shooting and killing three of his classmates, and his family are now town pariahs. Janice's husband, Ron (Alexander Skarsgård), seems to be faring somewhat better, diving headfirst into conservative Christianity at a new church. He's also having, at the very least, an emotional affair with fellow church member Lisa (Alison Pill). Meanwhile, Janice is floundering, deciding to turn to her pastor, Steve (Paul Sparks), for guidance. Steve advises Janice to meet with the mothers of the boys her son killed, hoping that it will bring the women together emotionally and spiritually. Instead, the meeting leads not only to Janice's feeling more isolated, but also to her feeling more certain about why Eric may have committed his act of violence.
Is It Any Good?
This drama directed by Michael Shannon has deep, compelling performances, but the script strangely fails the actors. Eric LaRue is definitely a drama, but there are jarring moments of levity and humor that don't quite mesh with the overall vibe. On top of that, Janice's ultimate belief about why Eric did what he did may strike parents as confusing, especially since Eric himself disagrees with her logic.
Janice's thought process does allow for thought-provoking discussion when it comes to the lengths a parent will go to in order to try to understand their child. And Janice's constantly feeling talked down to or admonished for having feelings also seems like commentary on how women's emotions can be policed by society. But this commentary is portrayed clunkily. Eric LaRue swings for greatness, but its plodding tone and confusing climax mean that it falls short.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether they consider Eric LaRue to be a faith-based film. What role does religion play in the movie?
Can you think of other movies that have tackled similar subject matter? How is this one similar? Different?
The violent act at the core of this story isn't shown. How does that affect its impact on you?
What do you think about Eric's feelings about his actions? Does he take responsibility for them? Why is that important?
How are women portrayed in this film? Does Janice have agency? How is she handling her life after her son is incarcerated? And how would you describe her relationship with Ron?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 4, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : April 11, 2025
- Cast : Judy Greer , Alexander Skarsgard , Paul Sparks , Alison Pill
- Director : Michael Shannon
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Magnolia Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 119 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : April 21, 2025
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