The controversial “Rust” will have its tumultuous production start up again on April 21st in Livingston, Montana.
They could have just scrapped the movie altogether, but now that this little shitty, low-budget indie has gained notoriety, for all the wrong reasons, there will be curiosity seekers out there who will want to watch the finished product, whenever it gets released. Baldwin, as producer of the film, knows that.
The late Halyna Hutchins has been replaced by another DP, we don’t know who exactly. All of this as Hutchins’ family are still trying to pursue Baldwin in court for the death of their daughter. What a total and utter shitshow.
This quote from the producers of “Rust,” on the decision to begin shooting after the eighteen month shutdown, is quite something. Okay, let’s call it for what it is, an absolutely shameful and artificial display of non-empathy:
“The dedication and passion of the entire ‘Rust’ production team to honor Halyna’s vision has deeply moved us [..] We’ve learned so much about Halyna as a friend and colleague, the depth of her artistry, and the lasting impact she had on so many. We are honored to play a role in the realization of her vision and to carry forward her inspiring legacy through championing this film.”
Baldwin fired the shot that killed Hutchins while preparing to film a scene in a church building near Santa Fe, N.M. The armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, loaded the weapon. She’s also been charged. If anything, Gutierrez-Reed is more to be blamed.
The most important question that has yet to be answered: why were there live rounds on the set? Who was the genius that decided to load the gun with the real bullet that discharged from the prop gun.
The bullet went straight through the body of Hutchins and into the clavicle of the film’s director Joel Souza. The set was immediately locked down. Ambulance and helicopters arrived. Hutchins died en route in an helicopter.
Of course, basic gun safety dictates you assume all guns are real, and loaded with live ammo, and therefore lethally dangerous. Baldwin, as producer and gun handler, didn’t follow these protocols. Does he deserve jail time? I don’t think so.
Paul Greengrass’ "The Uprising," starring Andrew Garfield, opened to $3.2M from 2,068 theaters this weekend. Yikes. The budget hasn’t been disclosed, but is said to be in the $20-$30M range.