Western movie 'Rust' makes quiet debut after 3-year wait due to tragic incident
After long delays due to an on-set tragedy that took place about 3 years ago‚ “Rust“ finally reached movie screens at a small Polish film fest. Director shows final work of talented cinematographer who lost her life during filming
At a modest film fest in Torun (Poland) last week the western “Rust“ finally reached audiences — its path to screens marked by a tragic accident that happened bout 3 years ago. The premiere gathered just a few hundred viewers at Camerimage‚ an event thats known for its focus on camera work
Joel Souza‚ the films director who got hurt in the incident shared his thoughts: “Getting the movie done wasnt easy but showing it to people felt right — its what Halyna Hutchins husband wanted too“. The 42-year old Ukrainian cinematographer lost her life in a shocking on-set accident that shook Hollywood to its core
The incident took place when Alec Baldwin had a prop-gun that fired unexpectedly. The movies weapons expert Hannah Gutierrez got an 18-month prison term (which shes now fighting in court) while charges against Baldwin were dropped this past summer. During a tv talk back then Baldwin explained that the gun went off as he followed Hutchins directions for a camera shot
The director made some big changes to finish the film — like taking out the church scene where the accident happened. “The crew helped me stay on track; they kept reminding me to think of Halyna as our north star“ Souza points out. He thinks its good that people will see her work even if they come to watch because theyre curious about what occurred
I hope they can appreciate that
The film opened with a quiet moment to remember Hutchins at this festival that meant so much to camera pros. When asked about court decisions Souza just noted: “Moving ahead is the only choice we have“
