Eric LaRue is an upcoming American drama film directed by Michael Shannon in his directorial debut. The movie is based on Brett Neveu’s 2002 play of the same name and tells the powerful story of Janice LaRue, a mother struggling to come to terms with the horrific actions of her son, Eric, who was involved in a tragic high school shooting.
With an incredible cast featuring The Best Christmas Pageant Ever star Judy Greer, Alexander Skarsgård, Alison Pill, and Tracy Letts, Eric LaRue had its world premiere at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival and is set for a United States theatrical release on April 4, 2025.
But where was this emotional and gripping movie filmed? Let’s take a closer look at the filming locations and behind-the-scenes details.
Where Was Eric LaRue Filmed?
The movie was originally set to be filmed in Little Rock, Arkansas, but due to changes in state laws, the production team decided to move the filming to Wilmington, North Carolina. Wilmington is known for its historic charm and diverse landscapes, making it a popular filming destination for many Hollywood movies.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington served as the main filming location for Eric LaRue. The city is famous for its beautiful coastal views, historic buildings, and quiet suburban neighborhoods, which helped bring the story to life.
Here are some of the specific locations where filming took place:
- Elderhaus – A senior care center in Wilmington that was transformed into a key setting in the film.
- St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church – This historic church was used for emotional scenes involving Janice and her community, as she struggles with faith and forgiveness.
- New River Pottery – A well-known local shop that played a role in a few scenes of the film.
Filming in Wilmington lasted from August 8, 2022, to mid-September 2022, capturing the essence of small-town America while maintaining the film’s serious and reflective tone.
Why Did the Filming Location Change?
Originally, Eric LaRue was supposed to be filmed in Little Rock, Arkansas, but due to new state laws banning almost all abortions, including in cases of rape and incest, the filmmakers decided to pull out of Arkansas and relocate the production.
Instead, they chose Wilmington, North Carolina, which offered similar scenic locations, a supportive film industry, and a welcoming atmosphere for the cast and crew.
Behind-the-Scenes Moments
- Michael Shannon’s Directorial Debut: This is Michael Shannon’s first time directing a movie, and he worked closely with the cast to make sure every scene felt real and emotional.
- Judy Greer’s Powerful Performance: As the lead actress, Judy Greer delivered a deeply moving performance as Janice LaRue, the mother of the school shooter. Many scenes were shot in quiet, isolated settings to emphasize her emotional turmoil.
- Authenticity in Filming: The production team chose real churches, homes, and businesses in Wilmington to create a setting that felt genuine and immersive.
FAQs
Q: Where was Eric LaRue filmed?
A: Eric LaRue was filmed in Wilmington, North Carolina, after the production team decided to move from Little Rock, Arkansas.
Q: Why did the production leave Arkansas?
A: The filmmakers chose to relocate from Little Rock, Arkansas, due to a controversial state law banning most abortions, which conflicted with their values.
Q: What are some filming locations in Wilmington?
A: Key locations include Elderhaus, St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church, and New River Pottery.
Q: When did filming take place?
A: Filming started on August 8, 2022, and wrapped up by mid-September 2022.
Q: When will Eric LaRue be released?
A: The movie will be released in the United States on April 4, 2025, by Magnolia Pictures.
Eric LaRue is expected to be a thought-provoking and emotional drama that explores themes of grief, forgiveness, and redemption. With its authentic filming locations in Wilmington, the movie promises to deliver a powerful cinematic experience. Stay tuned for more updates!