The producers of Rust have said that production on the tragedy-hit project will resume this spring under original director Joel Souza and with Bianca Cline as cinematographer.
Cline, best known for her work on Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, joins the project in place of original cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, who was shot and killed on the New Mexico set of the film in October 2021. Cline will donate her salary to charity in honour of Hutchins.
Original Rust star Alec Baldwin and armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were last month charged with involuntary manslaughter over the shooting. Attorneys for both have said their clients will fight the charges.
The film’s original director, Joel Souza, who was wounded in the incident, is also returning to the project, which has added industry veteran Grant Hill as a producer. Hutchins’ widower, Matthew, will serve as an executive producer.
It has been reported that Baldwin will return to lead the cast, but the producers have not commented on the report and their announcement made no mention of casting.
In a statement, Souza said: “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.”
Producers said the production will not allow the use of working weapons or ammunition on the set. They added that documentarian Rachel Mason will make a documentary on Halyna Hutchins’ life and final work which will also cover the completion of the film.
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