The tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film “Rust” in 2021 sent shockwaves through Hollywood and beyond. While the headlines surrounding her death, the ensuing trials, and social media conversations have kept her story in the public eye, a new documentary titled “Last Take: Rust and the Story of Halyna” adds depth to the narrative by delving into her life, the memories shared by those who knew her, and the emotional scars left behind after her passing. This documentary sheds light on what transpired both on that fateful day and in the aftermath, offering a more personal perspective than what initial reports provided.
The documentary features insights from various cast and crew members who recount their experiences and concerns regarding safety prior to the fateful incident. As production resumed after Hutchins’ death, the team grappled with the weight of resuming work on a project that now carried the burden of such a loss. Actor Josh Hopkins articulates this struggle by stating, “I’m glad there’s a different ending for the experience,” acknowledging the complicated mixture of relief and guilt that comes with the continuation of a film that was irrevocably altered.
Devon Werkheiser, another actor in the documentary, shares his unsettling feelings about returning to the set, comparing the experience to “being alone in a sea of people.” Such sentiments resonate with the broader themes of trauma and grief that the documentary explores. The narrative intricately weaves together the profound impact of Hutchins’ death, echoing the complex emotional landscapes that the cast and crew must navigate while attempting to honor her memory.
Although actor Alec Baldwin, who faced charges of involuntary manslaughter related to the incident, is not directly interviewed in the documentary, it still captures the voices of many involved in the production. The film brings forth the perspectives of various crew members, such as Roman and Thomas, a father-son special effects team. Their reflections reveal how deeply the incident has affected them, with the younger Thomas stating, “It’s something that will stick with you forever.”
One of the documentary’s crucial aspects is its focus on the factors that led to Hutchins’ tragic shooting. The film dives into critical industry conversations about safety protocols and the decisions that were made, or not made, on set. A poignant moment occurs when actress Frances Fisher reflects on her early concerns regarding armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed’s management of guns, expressing regret for not having voiced her apprehensions. Such testimonies highlight the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in high-pressure environments where voicing concerns may be seen as troublesome.
From the perspective of those who walked out due to safety concerns to members who bear the weight of the incident, the documentary illustrates a range of feelings about responsibility and hindsight. For instance, Jonas, a member of the camera team, becomes emotional as he recounts how he could have potentially altered the fate of that day. His regret amplifies the overall sense of helplessness that permeates the documentary.
The documentary does not shy away from addressing accountability. Dave Halls, the assistant director who handed the gun to Baldwin, expresses remorse, declaring that a thorough inspection could have prevented this tragedy. His candidness emphasizes the importance of rigorous safety standards and conscientious oversight in film production, a message the documentary aims to underscore.
Directed by Rachel Mason, a close friend of Hutchins, and executive produced by Hutchins’ husband, Matthew Hutchins, the documentary aims to celebrate Halyna’s artistry while underscoring the realities of filmmaking. Director Joel Souza, who was injured during the incident, reflects on the hope that audiences can appreciate Hutchins’ special vision through her work. As Souza puts it, “You get to see it up on screen — how she saw the world. That’s pretty amazing.”
Overall, “Last Take: Rust and the Story of Halyna” serves not only as a tribute to a talented individual but also as a reminder of the importance of critical safety measures in the film industry. The documentary addresses profound themes of grief, accountability, and resilience, inviting viewers to consider the human stories behind headlines and the irrevocable impacts of loss.