What tragic event during the production of Rust significantly impacted the film’s journey to completion?
How did the filmmakers choose to honor Halyna Hutchins after her untimely death?
In what ways does Rust attempt to resonate with traditional western themes as well as modern sensibilities?
What are some key strengths and weaknesses highlighted in the cinematography of Rust?
How does the film’s narrative connect its characters, especially Lucas and Harland Rust?
Rust is certainly one independently made movie that doesn’t need publicity.
The western starring Alec Baldwin, who also came up with the story and serves as a producer, was hit by tragedy during production in October 2021 when Baldwin’s prop gun discharged during a rehearsal, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and also injuring director/screenwriter Joel Souza. Production on the film immediately halted and finally resumed in April 2023. Legal cases involving Baldwin and armorer Hannah Guitierrez-Reed, both charged by the New Mexico D.A. with manslaughter, ended with Baldwin being acquitted and Guiterrez-Reed found guilty. The events of this tragedy made headlines around the globe and certainly raised doubt the film itself would ever see the light of day, much less be finished. In the end, it was decided that to honor Hutchins’s final work the film would be completed, no profits would be shared by the original producers, and Hutchins’s widower Matthew Hutchins would come on as an Executive Producer with both he and his son receiving some profits from the film.
No movie, no matter how good, is worth the loss of a life, and so to see Rust finally on the screen is bittersweet, especially since it is the exceptional cinematography of Hutchins, as well as Bianca Cline, who came in to film the remaining scenes, that is perhaps the key strength of this traditional western meant to be in the mode of Clint Eastwood’s Oscar-winning Unforgiven (even copying that film’s iconic poster design). It doesn’t reach those heights, but Rust, though overlong at 139 minutes and in need of tightening, is a perfectly decent addition to the well-worn genre that basically is found these days on television rather than the big screen. Yes, it is hard to watch and review a movie with this kind of tragic notoriety but this is the time to look at what is left behind and to hope the work of Halyna Hutchins is not forgotten.
Storywise, it is 1880’s Wyoming where recently orphaned teen Lucas Hollister (Patrick Scott McDermott) is trying to take care of little brother Jacob (Easton Malcolm) at their primitive home located in the middle of the vast Wyoming landscape. It doesn’t go well even as he tries to be a man, unsuccessfully hunting a wolf, and getting into fights at the local general store with other local kids, including one whose angry father attempts to confront Lucas before the owner intervenes. Unfortunately for Lucas, yet another attempt at that wolf ends instead in the accidental killing of the aforementioned father riding by on his horse. Now, considering the incident in the store, it appears on the surface to look like intentional murder and Lucas is tossed in jail and sentenced after trial to hang. Things take a turn when the notorious Harland Rust (Baldwin), a man who has killed many, rides into town and breaks Lucas out of jail, taking him on the run with him. We soon learn, as does a skeptical Lucas at first, that this is his grandfather and father of his late mother, a man he has never met or was even aware existed.
From this point on, the story switches to different southwestern states—Kansas, Colorado, back to Wyoming—as other characters are introduced who will be a key part of efforts to track down Lucas. One is U.S. Marshal Wood Helm (Josh Hopkins), whose own son is gravely ill, something he tries to deal with even as he must keep law and order in town. Another is the fearsome bounty hunter Fenton “Preacher” Lang (Travis Fimmel), who is bound and determined to pocket the $1000 bounty on Lucas’s head. Yet another is Miss Evelyn Bassett (Frances Fisher), who takes a key interest in the welfare of Lucas and what will become of his brother, and later is discovered to have secrets of her own that make this all very personal.
All these stories intersect with the treacherous and dangerous journey, much through Indian territory, Rust leads his grandson on to eventually hopefully find safety in New Mexico rather than be hanged for a tragic unintended killing (that aspect of an accidental shooting holds some irony considering the real-life behind-the-scenes events of the making of Rust). Some of the side plots bog the film down and take away from the core of seeing Rust and Lucas staying one step ahead of those trailing them, including a posse formed by Helm along the way, and an encounter with a widow and her son that pads Fimmel’s role.
Overall though, Rust, with its themes of loss, regrets, and redemption does work, and much of the credit goes to sharp direction by Souza and the gorgeous photography of the American west by Hutchins and later Cline, who followed her template and distinct color palette to the point where its visual style is seamless and quite stunning, even with the homage to John Ford’s 1956 western classic The Searchers quite evident in a few set-ups with the camera in a darkened room seeing a person looking out yonder onto the bright landscape. Ford’s iconic shot must be the most imitated in Hollywood history.
You can also see why Baldwin was inspired to make this film. It is a great role for him and he has one of his best film outings here. Hopkins is also quite good as the Marshal who must manage his increasing grief over his son in order to bring another young boy to justice. Fimmel digs into the more stereotypical gruff bounty hunter with relish, though the character itself is a western staple. Fisher only has a couple of scenes (shot before the film shut down) but delivers them nicely.
The film premiered appropriately at last Fall’s Camerimage festival honoring the art of cinematographers in Poland. At the end credits, there is a dedication: “For Halyna…,” followed by a quote from her: “What can we do to make this better?”
Title: Rust
Distributor: Falling Forward Films (theatrical); Ascending Media Group (VOD)
Release Date: May 2, 2025 (day and date theatrical and VOD)
Director: Joel Souza
Screenplay: Joel Souza; Story by Joel Souza and Alec Baldwin
Cast: Alec Baldwin, Frances Fisher, Josh Hopkins, Travis Fimmel, Patrick Scott McDermott, Devon Werkheiser, Rhys Coiro, Xander Berkeley, Jake Busey, Abraham Benrubi, Travis Hammer, Nick Farnell, Sam Carson, Richard Gunn, Easton Malcolm
Running Time: 2 hours and 19 minutes
Alec Baldwin Western: Tragedy on Set Sparks Controversy and Reflection
The tragic incident that transpired on the set of the Alec Baldwin-led Western film "Rust" has become one of the most discussed events in Hollywood, raising questions about safety, accountability, and the nature of filmmaking itself. The incident took place on October 21, 2021, when a prop gun accidentally discharged during a rehearsal, resulting in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. As the film is now set for release, the industry grapples with the implications of this harrowing event.
The Incident: A Grievous Mistake
On that fateful day, Baldwin was practicing a scene that involved drawing a revolver. The weapon was reportedly a prop gun, which he believed to be safe. However, the gun was loaded with a live round, resulting in a catastrophic accident. Halyna Hutchins, who was known for her visionary work and contributions to cinema, was killed instantly, and Joel Souza sustained injuries. The incident shocked the industry and ignited widespread conversations about gun safety on film sets.
In the aftermath, the production faced intense scrutiny. Investigations were launched to determine how a live round got onto the set. Multiple lawsuits were filed, and various crew members came forward, alleging unsafe working conditions and a lack of proper safety measures. The loss of Hutchins has left an indelible mark, not just on the film but on the industry at large, highlighting serious issues that require reform.
The Legal Fallout
As investigations unfolded, the legal ramifications became increasingly convoluted. Baldwin, who is also a producer on the film, found himself at the center of numerous lawsuits, including wrongful death claims from Hutchins’s family. The legal system grappled with questions of accountability—who should be held responsible for the series of failures that led to that tragic day?
Baldwin has publicly expressed his sorrow and has been cooperative with authorities throughout the investigation. He maintains that he did not pull the trigger, stressing the need for a safe working environment on film sets to prevent future tragedies. The broader implications of these legal battles may set precedents for how the industry approaches safety and responsibility going forward.
The Release of "Rust"
Despite the tragedy, "Rust" is set to be released, albeit under a cloud of controversy. The decision to move forward with the film has been met with mixed reactions. Some members of the film community feel it is a vital homage to Hutchins and her work, while others argue that releasing the film soon after her death is disrespectful and undermines the seriousness of the incident.
The filmmakers have stated that the project aims to honor Hutchins’s legacy. The interactions and storytelling inherent in Westerns typically delve into themes such as honor, redemption, and loss—elements that resonate deeply in light of what happened on set. The narrative follows a 13-year-old boy who witnesses the death of his estranged father and goes on the run with his grandfather, introduced to the complexities of life and death along the way.
A Call for Change in the Industry
The tragedy has accelerated discussions surrounding gun safety protocols in the film industry. Several actors and filmmakers have called for stricter regulations, better training for handling firearms, and a reevaluation of how prop weapons are managed on set. Organizations like the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) have advocated for modernizing safety standards.
In addition to physical safety, the tragedy has spotlighted mental health concerns within the industry. Many crew members report experiencing significant psychological distress after witnessing the incident. More than ever, conversation about mental health support for those working behind the scenes is crucial, as they often operate in high-stress environments without adequate resources.
The Future of "Rust" and Baldwin’s Career
As the release date approaches, Baldwin’s future in Hollywood remains uncertain. While he has a storied career, this incident could overshadow his extensive body of work. The actor’s choice to take part in combining his grieving process with the continuation of the film project may prove to be both healing and contentious.
Overall, the release of "Rust" is not merely a return to a regular Hollywood schedule; it’s a nuanced event that raises ethical questions about artistry, loss, and the safety of those working tirelessly behind the camera. The industry must not only remember Halyna Hutchins, but also act decisively to ensure that no one else experiences a similar tragedy. In the wake of this incident, there is a renewed urgency for reform, accountability, and awareness—both in the immediate aftermath and into the future of filmmaking.
As audiences prepare to view "Rust," they will not only witness a story on screen but also be reminded of the real-life stories intertwined with its creation, making the film an emblem of both art and tragic reality.
"Rust" is a Western film directed by Joel Souza, starring Alec Baldwin as Harland Rust, an elderly outlaw. The film’s production was marred by a tragic incident in October 2021, when cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was fatally shot on set. Baldwin, who was also a producer on the film, was rehearsing a scene involving a prop gun that discharged a live round, resulting in Hutchins’ death and injuring director Joel Souza. (cbsnews.com)
Following the incident, production was halted, and legal proceedings ensued. In January 2023, Baldwin was charged with involuntary manslaughter, but the charges were dismissed in July 2024 due to procedural violations by the prosecution. (apnews.com) Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the film’s armorer, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in March 2024 and sentenced to 18 months in prison. (reuters.com)
Filming resumed in April 2023 at a new location in Montana, with strict safety protocols implemented to prevent further incidents. The film premiered at the Camerimage festival in Poland on November 20, 2024, and is scheduled for theatrical release on May 2, 2025. (en.wikipedia.org)
"Rust" follows the story of Harland Rust, who comes out of hiding to rescue his 13-year-old grandson, Lucas Hollister, after the boy is sentenced to hang for an accidental killing. The film also stars Patrick Scott McDermott, Josh Hopkins, Frances Fisher, and Travis Fimmel. (en.wikipedia.org)
The film’s release has been met with mixed reactions. While some anticipate its debut, others, including Hutchins’ family, have expressed dissatisfaction with Baldwin’s involvement and have filed civil suits seeking justice. (time.com)
Recent Developments in ‘Rust’ Film and Legal Proceedings:
- Prosecutors withdraw appeal of dismissed case against Alec Baldwin in fatal movie set shooting
- Alec Baldwin sues prosecutors, sheriff’s officials over ‘Rust’ case
- Last Take Honors Halyna Hutchins in an Unflinching Look at What Led to the Rust Shooting