Santa Fe, New Mexico — Cinematic tragedy pushes the long-awaited release of ‘Rust,’ starring Alec Baldwin and dedicated to slain cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The film, which hits theaters and VOD on May 2, 2025, is laden with emotional weight following the tragic death of Hutchins by a prop gun on set in October 2021.
Production on ‘Rust’ faced immediate termination after the incident, prompting questioning on the film’s completion. Despite the legal entanglements surrounding Baldwin and armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, both charged with manslaughter, the decision to finish the film came out of respect for Hutchins’ artistic contributions, according to producers.
“We felt it was essential to honor Halyna’s final work,” Oscar-nominated director Joel Souza emphasized in a recent interview. This sentiment resonates deeply, considering Hutchins’ husband, Matthew, stepped in as an executive producer, aiming to ensure their son will benefit from the film financially.
‘Rust’ is set in 1880s Wyoming, centering around Lucas Hollister (Patrick Scott McDermott), a young boy wrongfully imprisoned for an accidental killing. His fate becomes intertwined with Harland Rust (Baldwin), his estranged grandfather, who takes him on a perilous journey to escape justice.
Despite its attempts at evoking classic Western themes, criticisms have surfaced. Some reviewers argue the film stretches thin at 139 minutes and lacks a tighter narrative. “It’s hard to separate the tragedy that unfolded from the film’s quality,” noted a critic from Deadline. “This is a story that some find hard to watch.”
The cinematography, however, remains a strong point, with Hutchins’ artistry bringing the stark landscapes to life. Critics note that the visuals capture the essence of classic Westerns while paying homage to Hutchins’ memorable style. “Halyna’s work truly shines in this film,” Souza stated. “Her influence is still palpable throughout.”
Throughout the film’s journey, themes of loss, regret, and redemption are explored against a backdrop of rugged terrains and shifting allegiances. Characters like U.S. Marshal Wood Helm (Josh Hopkins) and the ruthless bounty hunter Fenton “Preacher” Lang (Travis Fimmel) bring layers to the fabric of the story.
Despite various subplots diluting the main storyline, the emotional core remains intact, resonating with audiences grappling with the film’s dark history. Criticizing its pacing, another review reflected that, “The film drags at times, with an overabundance of characters that muddle the experience.”
As audiences prepare to witness the film’s release, the ethical dilemma persists. Some fear watching ‘Rust’ may appear as a voyeuristic pastime given its tragic background. Yet for Hutchins’ family and friends, this film stands as a tribute to her craft. “Halyna poured her heart into this film, and we wanted the world to see her genius,” said Rachel Mason, a longtime friend of Hutchins.
Whether or not this film encapsulates Hutchins’ intent remains a point of contention, but it is evident that her spirit continues to inspire those who worked alongside her. As the film opens, it prompts viewers to reflect on the intersection of art and the human cost behind its creation.
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