Baldwin film ‘Rust’ to resume filming this week

LOS ANGELES

Filming will resume this week on Alec Baldwin’s “Rust,” producers said on April 18, some 18 months after it was halted by the fatal on-set shooting of the movie’s cinematographer.

Hollywood star Baldwin was holding a Colt .45 gun during rehearsals for the film in the southwestern state of New Mexico when it discharged, killing Halyna Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza.

Baldwin was charged with manslaughter, and has pleaded not guilty.

Principal photography will resume today at a new location in the northern U.S. state of Montana.

“The production will continue to utilize union crew members and will bar any use of working weapons and any form of ammunition,” said Melina Spadone, attorney for Rust Movie Productions, in a statement to AFP.

“Live ammunition is, and always was, prohibited on set.”Producers announced in February that the low-budget Western would resume production this spring, with the deceased cinematographer’s widower, Matthew Hutchins, serving as an executive producer.

Baldwin agreed to terms with the New Mexico court that will allow him to complete filming of the movie, including a ban on his using guns or drinking alcohol.

Director Souza, who is also returning, said in a statement at the time: “Though bittersweet, I am grateful that a brilliant and dedicated new production team joining former cast and crew are committed to completing what Halyna and I started.”    

“My every effort on this film will be devoted to honoring Halyna’s legacy and making her proud. It is a privilege to see this through on her behalf.”

A documentary will also be made, covering Halyna Hutchins’s life and the completion of the film.