‘Rust’ set to premiere at Polish film festival next month

The film “Rust” is set to make its world premiere at the EnergaCAMERIMAGE Festival in Poland on November 23, marking a poignant moment three years after the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Hutchins was fatally shot during a rehearsal when a prop gun held by actor and producer Alec Baldwin discharged a live round, a heartbreaking incident that reverberated throughout the film industry.

At the festival, a panel discussion will feature key figures involved in the film, including director Joel Souza, who was also injured in the shooting, cinematographer Bianca Cline, and Stephen Lighthill, a mentor to Hutchins from her film school days. This discussion aims to provide insight into the events surrounding the film and the challenges faced in continuing production following Hutchins’ death. An announcement for the screening emphasized the filmmakers’ commitment to preserving Hutchins’ artistic vision, stating that maintaining her legacy was a critical yet daunting task for the crew.

Hutchins, who was only 42 years old at the time of her passing, was killed when Baldwin fired the weapon, which was believed to be a prop. Although Baldwin faced charges of involuntary manslaughter, he pleaded not guilty, and the case was dismissed with prejudice in July due to evidence issues brought forth by the prosecution. The film’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in March and is currently serving an 18-month sentence.

In a statement released on Friday, Melina Spadone, an attorney for Rust Movie Productions, expressed the company’s honor at premiering the film at such a prestigious festival. She remarked, “This November, a perfect stage to honor Halyna Hutchins. Her remarkable talent and vision are embedded in every frame of the film, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to showcase her work and let audiences experience the beauty and creativity she captured through her lens.”

“Rust” tells the story of a 13-year-old boy navigating life in 1880s Wyoming after the deaths of his parents. He finds himself on the run with his estranged grandfather after being sentenced to hang for accidentally killing a local rancher. The film combines themes of survival, familial bonds, and the harsh realities of the era, set against the backdrop of the American West.

Notably, Baldwin will not attend the screening, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. CNN has sought comments from Baldwin’s representatives regarding the upcoming premiere.

In the wake of Hutchins’ death, her widower, Matthew Hutchins, filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Baldwin and other parties involved in the film’s production. The case was settled last year for an undisclosed amount, with the settlement agreement stipulating that Matthew Hutchins would serve as an executive producer on “Rust” when filming resumed. The couple shared a young son together, amplifying the personal stakes of the tragedy.

The festival organizers expressed hope that Hutchins’ story will catalyze discussions about the vital roles women play in cinematography and filmmaking. They emphasized the importance of addressing safety on set, a topic that has gained significant attention following the incident.

“Halyna’s story will serve as a starting point for a conversation about the role of women in cinematography and their contributions to the art of filmmaking,” they noted, highlighting the festival’s commitment to fostering dialogue around industry practices.

As “Rust” prepares for its debut, the film represents not just a continuation of Hutchins’ work but also an opportunity for reflection on the industry’s practices and the significance of safety protocols. The EnergaCAMERIMAGE Festival will provide a platform for honoring Hutchins’ legacy while sparking essential conversations that could lead to meaningful changes in the filmmaking process.