Revelations from the ‘Rust’ Documentary Uncover Safety Concerns Surrounding Halyna Hutchins’ Tragic Death

Revelations from the ‘Rust’ Documentary Uncover Safety Concerns Surrounding Halyna Hutchins’ Tragic Death

A new documentary titled “Last Take: Rust and the Story of Halyna” has shed light on the circumstances leading to the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The film, which premiered on March 11 on Hulu, provides insight into the crew’s perceptions of safety on set during the production of the Western film “Rust.”

Hutchins was fatally shot on October 21, 2021, when a prop gun held by actor Alec Baldwin discharged on the Bonanza Creek Ranch film set in New Mexico. The day before this tragic incident, the camera crew made a significant decision that would impact the filming process.

Camera Crew Exits on Critical Filming Day

The documentary reveals that on the day of Hutchins’ death, the entire camera crew walked off the set. This walkout occurred on what was described as the biggest shootout day of filming.

Special effects coordinator Thomas Gandy, in the documentary, explained that the crew’s departure left Hutchins and director Joel Souza with only one camera to work with. Gandy noted the seriousness of this decision, stating, “They chose to walk out on the day we were having the biggest shootout of the whole show.” The implications of this lack of equipment would soon become tragically apparent.

Safety Protocols Under Scrutiny

The documentary highlights ongoing concerns about safety protocols on set. First camera assistant Lane Luper mentioned that the crew decided to resign due to what they perceived as lax COVID-19 policies as well as inadequate gun safety practices. He voiced that the environment felt unsafe, stating, “It very quickly felt like somebody was going to get hurt if something didn’t change.”

Luper described how the handling of firearms during filming had become increasingly troubling. Despite his worries, he did not communicate directly with Hutchins about his concerns, expressing regret about not having done more at the time.

Firsthand Accounts of Risky Conditions

Actress Frances Fisher, who featured in “Rust,” also shared her unsettling experience on set. She recounted a moment on her first day, as an individual with an assortment of guns navigated through the base camp, raising her concerns about safety. Fisher recounted her thoughts as she witnessed this, questioning, “Have they been cleared? Why are you doing this?”

Moreover, she criticized armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed’s handling of firearms, labeling her behavior as “unprofessional” and a product of “sloppiness”. She expressed regret for not speaking up, believing that even small actions could have made a difference.

Legal Implications Arise

The incident sparked significant legal proceedings. Initially facing charges of involuntary manslaughter, Baldwin’s case garnered attention amid controversies surrounding the handling of evidence. Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer ultimately dismissed Baldwin’s charge with prejudice after the prosecution’s case was questioned.

Throughout the documentary, Baldwin’s attorneys argued that the state had withheld crucial evidence, further complicating the legal landscape surrounding Hutchins’ death.

Severe Consequences and Industry Reflection

In the wake of Hutchins’ death, industry reactions have prompted a reevaluation of safety protocols on film sets. The level of unease expressed by crew members raises essential questions about accountability and the responsibility of production companies to ensure safer working environments.

The months following the tragedy saw growing calls for reform regarding firearm safety on set. The incident highlighted a gap in standard safety practices that clearly need addressing to prevent future tragedies.

Final Thoughts: A Call for Change in Industry Standards

The documentary serves as both a tribute to Hutchins’ life and an urgent call for reform within the film industry. As the dust settles on this heartbreaking incident, many hope that the discussions sparked by these revelations will lead to lasting changes in safety protocols.

While the pain of Hutchins’ death resonates within the industry, it also ignites a movement for greater awareness regarding the handling of firearms and the prioritization of crew safety. It is crucial that the lessons learned from this tragedy propel significant changes in policies and practices, protecting future talents on film sets.