‘Rust’ Review: A Tragic Western that Honors Halyna Hutchins and Delivers Much-Needed Closure in Alec Baldwin’s Journey

In October 2021, the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of “Rust” shocked the world. A live round accidentally shot by actor and producer Alec Baldwin took her life, leaving many to wonder if the film would ever see completion. Sadly, the industry has seen similar tragedies before, like the deaths of crew members in “The Crow” and “Midnight Rider,” but the public reaction today is amplified by social media and instant news.

The incident on “Rust” quickly ignited outrage. Many crew members learned of Hutchins’ death through their phones while they were still processing the chaos around them. The filming of “Rust” was halted, and the legal fallout began. Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was convicted of involuntary manslaughter, but questions lingered about how a live round ended up in the gun and the extent of Baldwin’s responsibility.

Despite this dark cloud, production resumed in spring 2023. Many crew and cast members felt a sense of duty to finish the film, encouraged by Hutchins’ husband, who took on the role of executive producer. He believed completing the movie would honor Hutchins’ legacy.

When evaluating “Rust,” the question of quality seems almost trivial. No film can justify the loss of life. The story follows a 13-year-old orphan, Lucas Hollister, inadvertently involved in a fatal shooting, and his escape with his grandfather, notorious outlaw Harland Rust. Their journey across the rugged American West is as much about their evolving relationship as it is about evading danger.

Director Joel Souza’s script may feel formulaic at times, with familiar Western tropes. However, Hutchins’ cinematography shines through, even in the reshot scenes thanks to co-cinematographer Bianca Cline’s respect for her notes. The film’s visuals paint a hauntingly beautiful landscape, reflecting both the sorrow of the past and a wistful hint of hope for the future.

Recent statistics reveal that incidents like this have led to calls for stricter safety regulations on film sets. According to the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, safety training could significantly reduce on-set accidents. The film industry must learn from the past to ensure that tragedies like Hutchins’ never repeat.

Ultimately, “Rust” is more than just a film; it is a complex reminder of loss, responsibility, and resilience. As Harland expresses in the film, some things in life cannot be reclaimed. The legacy of Hutchins now intertwines with this haunting piece of cinema, forever shaping its narrative.

For more insights into film safety and industry practices, check out resources from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Source link

Alec Baldwin,Film,Reviews,Rust