Honey Boy is a sweet, simple indie film based on Shia LaBeouf’s life which gives some insight into the father-son relationship, particularly in relation to alcoholism, violence and the film industry. It demonstrates the chain of the violence and alcoholism through the parenting and family relations. It also examines the masculinity of the father-son relationship.
This film gives the very talented young actors Lucas Hedges (Ladybird) and the absolute gem that is Noah Jupe (A Quiet Place) the chance to really show off their skills. FKA Twigs also appears as a friend to Otis who also lives in the motel complex. Shia LaBeouf stars in the role of his father, which he excels in, as well as being able to boast writing credit for the screenplay. It has a nice structure, flashing forward and back from his twelve and twenty-two year old self, and has some good, realistic dialogue that ties it all together.
The montage scenes, the lighting and the set dressing makes it so that you are really sucked into the world of the motel where much of the story takes place. The scene where Otis is on the phone and is speaking (acting) the words of his parents through him is genius and really demonstrates a child’s position between the separated parents. There is an absurdity to it that just breathes life into every scene and LaBeouf takes us with him on this journey and makes it cathartic for everyone.
‘Honey Boy’ is available to stream on Amazon Prime.
Pep Reviews 