Rust: A Film Shrouded in Tragedy, Endorsed by Hutchins’ Family
The Western film "Rust," forever marked by the tragic on-set death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins involving a prop gun held by Alec Baldwin, has finally arrived in theaters. Despite the controversy and the lingering questions surrounding the incident, Hutchins’ family is publicly encouraging audiences to watch the film, viewing it as a tribute to her artistry and a fulfillment of her professional dreams.
Olga Solovey, Hutchins’ mother, expressed her support for the film in a statement released to People magazine in conjunction with the movie’s release. "I watched my daughter’s stunning film twice. I was so happy for the success of my daughter because it was filmed so beautifully," she wrote. "I would want everybody to watch it because it was the dream of my daughter and she would want people to see it." Solovey emphasized her personal enjoyment of the film and her desire for her daughter’s memory to be preserved through her work. "I like the film. I want many people to watch it, and I would want more people to remember her for as long as they can."
The circumstances surrounding Hutchins’ death have cast a long shadow over "Rust." Baldwin, who starred in and produced the film, faced involuntary manslaughter charges after discharging the firearm that killed Hutchins. The film’s director, Joel Souza, was also injured in the shooting. Notably, the scene Baldwin was rehearsing when the incident occurred has been removed from the final cut of the film.
Despite the tragedy, Souza has publicly stated that resuming production on "Rust" was a deliberate decision aimed at honoring Hutchins’ legacy. "Halyna’s family knew just how important her art was to her, how much she lived and breathed it, and they did not want it to simply vanish," he told USA TODAY via email. He further noted that Hutchins’ family, including her husband, Matthew Hutchins, provided support and input throughout the completion of the film.
Matthew Hutchins, who served as an executive producer on "Rust" after the incident, expressed his gratitude for the industry’s efforts to complete the film as a tribute to his late wife. "I am grateful that the producers and the entertainment community have come together to pay tribute to Halyna’s final work," he said in a statement in 2023. Prior to this, he had filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Baldwin, which was settled in October 2022.
The legal proceedings against Baldwin have been complex. In 2024, involuntary manslaughter charges against him were dismissed after a judge determined that state prosecutors and sheriffs investigating the shooting had concealed evidence. However, the legal saga surrounding the incident may not be entirely over, as the possibility of future charges remains.
Adding to the chorus of family support, Hutchins’ sister, Svetlana Zemko, urged audiences to appreciate the film for its artistic merit, rather than focusing solely on the tragedy that occurred during its production. "The film is amazing, very beautiful and colorful, the shots are just amazing, the composition, the light, even the weather in the frame transfers through the screen," Zemko wrote in a statement to People. "I would want [Hutchins] to be remembered not for the tragedy but for her talent and hard work."
The family’s endorsement of "Rust" presents a complex ethical question for potential viewers. The film’s inherently violent nature, coupled with the real-life tragedy that occurred on set, may create feelings of unease or guilt for some. However, the Hutchins family’s desire for the film to be seen as a celebration of Halyna’s artistry offers a different perspective.
The decision to watch "Rust" is ultimately a personal one. Some may choose to avoid the film altogether, unable to separate it from the tragedy. Others may view it as an opportunity to honor Hutchins’ memory and appreciate her talent. The film’s existence is now inextricably linked to the tragic event that took place on its set, and this will likely influence how audiences engage with it.
"Rust" is more than just a movie; it is a testament to the dreams and aspirations of Halyna Hutchins. It is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of honoring the contributions of those who are no longer with us. While the film will forever be associated with tragedy, it also stands as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring power of art. As audiences consider whether or not to watch "Rust," they are also contemplating how to reconcile art and tragedy, memory and morality. The Hutchins family has offered their answer: to remember Halyna through her work, to celebrate her talent, and to ensure that her artistic vision is not forgotten.
