Last Take: Rust and the Story of Halyna is a poignant documentary directed by Rachel Mason, exploring the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film Rust. The documentary delves into Hutchins’ life, career, and the systemic failures that led to the fatal incident. Hutchins was killed when Alec Baldwin’s prop gun, unknowingly loaded with live rounds, misfired during filming, also injuring director Joel Souza.
The film provides a meticulous investigation into the overlooked safety concerns on the Rust set, including the mixing of live and dummy rounds and ignored warnings from crew members. It features interviews, police footage, and behind-the-scenes material, offering a layered narrative that examines the moral reckoning of those involved.
Beyond the tragedy, the documentary celebrates Hutchins’ artistic legacy and her journey from photojournalism to cinematography. It also highlights the completion of Rust, fulfilling Hutchins’ dream, and the ongoing impact of her story on the film industry