Santa Fe, New Mexico – The ill-fated film production of ‘Rust’ has hit another roadblock as it was denied a portion of New Mexico’s film and TV tax incentives. This decision comes in the aftermath of the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during the production of the film at the Bonanza Creek Ranch near Santa Fe.
Documents obtained from the New Mexico Film Office in January revealed that the film was initially approved for the incentives. However, the reasons behind the denial remain unclear. The incentives could have potentially amounted to $1.6 million for the production.
The incident that led to Hutchins’ death occurred on October 21, 2021, when a live round was fired from the pistol Alec Baldwin was handling, resulting in her death and injuries to director Joel Souza. Baldwin, who maintains that he did not pull the trigger, is facing trial next week for involuntary manslaughter in connection to the tragedy. Additionally, Baldwin serves as a producer on the independent film.
Despite these challenges, ‘Rust’ is still without a U.S. distributor, adding to the uncertainties surrounding the film’s future.
An attorney representing Rust Movie Productions mentioned that the denied tax incentive was meant to aid in financing a legal settlement with Hutchins’ widower and son. The denial has disrupted the financial arrangements intended for the settlement, as stated by Rust Movie Productions’ attorney Melina Spadone.
Overall, the production of ‘Rust’ continues to face obstacles and uncertainties following the tragic events that unfolded during filming, including the recent denial of the tax incentives in New Mexico.