Alec Baldwin takes on the role of the notorious outlaw Harland Rust in the highly anticipated indie western film, Rust. The first footage from the film has been released, providing a glimpse into a story that has garnered significant attention due to the tragic events that occurred during its production. The film is set against the backdrop of the 1880s in Kansas and features a gripping narrative that intertwines themes of survival, redemption, and the harsh realities of life on the frontier.
In the teaser, Baldwin’s character, Harland Rust, delivers a poignant line: “Some things in this life you can’t get back, I reckon.” This statement encapsulates the film’s exploration of loss and consequence. The plot centers around a young orphan named Lucas McCalister, portrayed by Patrick Scott McDermott. After accidentally killing a rancher, Lucas finds himself sentenced to hang. However, in a twist of fate, Harland Rust orchestrates a daring jail break, and together, they embark on a perilous journey toward Mexico.
The duo's escape is fraught with challenges, as they must evade the relentless pursuit of U.S. Marshal Wood Helm, played by Josh Hopkins, along with a merciless bounty hunter known as “Preacher,” portrayed by Travis Fimmel. This thrilling chase forms the crux of the film, highlighting the tension and stakes involved in their flight from justice.
While Rust promises to deliver a captivating story, it is also overshadowed by the tragic incident that occurred on set on October 21, 2021. In New Mexico, a prop firearm discharged by Baldwin contained a live round, resulting in the accidental death of the film’s director of photography, Halyna Hutchins, and injuring director Joel Souza. This incident sparked a sprawling investigation and led to high-profile trials involving Baldwin and armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, which dominated news coverage surrounding the film.
Baldwin has consistently stated that he did not pull the trigger of the weapon when it was fired. In April 2023, charges of involuntary manslaughter against him were dropped, allowing the film to move towards its release.
The trailer for Rust, which showcases Baldwin's performance and the film's intense atmosphere, is now available. The film is set for a limited theatrical release on May 2, 2024, by Falling Forward Films, with a subsequent Video on Demand (VOD) release planned by Ascending Media Group. As anticipation builds, audiences are eager to see how the film addresses its complex backstory while delivering a compelling narrative on the screen.
As Rust approaches its release date, it stands as a significant piece not only in Baldwin's career but also in the broader conversation about safety and responsibility in filmmaking. The film's dual focus on adventure and the consequences of unforeseen events makes it a notable entry in the western genre.
