For the past four years, cinematographer Halyna Hutchins has captured public attention due to the tragic circumstances surrounding her death. Director Rachel Mason aims to shift the narrative in her new Hulu documentary, Last Take: ‘Rust and the Story of Halyna, reminding audiences that she was a remarkable artist.
“I hated to see that she was portrayed as a tragic victim, as that’s the exact opposite of who she was,” Mason explained in an interview with TheWrap. “Halyna was forthright and motivated, not the type to be seen merely as a victim.”
The documentary, now streaming on Hulu, reveals a lesser-known side of the late cinematographer, whom Mason befriended a decade prior. It recounts the accident on the set of the independent Western film Rust, which claimed the life of the Ukrainian DP, along with the investigation and trial that followed. Through interviews with the cast and crew of Rust, including director Joel Souza and Hutchins’ family, the film also features footage from the resumed production of Rust in Montana in 2023, showcasing how the team honored Hutchins’ creative legacy.
Watch the trailer for Last Take: ‘Rust and the Story of Halyna below:
In discussing the creation of Last Take, Mason described a delicate balancing act: meeting the public’s curiosity about the Rust incident while fulfilling her desire to showcase who Hutchins truly was as a creative force. “More than just giving her authorship, I wanted her to have agency in death,” she stated. “No one should be overshadowed by the circumstances of their death; they should be understood as a person.”
Mason reflected on her six-year friendship with Hutchins and the artistic collaborations that sprouted from it. The interview, edited for length and clarity, delves into their shared experiences as artists and mothers.
In previous interviews, you’ve mentioned meeting Halyna Hutchins in 2015 and bonding over your artistry and motherhood. How did your relationship as collaborators develop?
I had just returned to L.A. and was transitioning from the visual arts to filmmaking. I learned a lot from Halyna about starting her career as a cinematographer. When we met, she was eager to work and explore different ideas with various directors, filled with vibrant excitement about her future.
We initially collaborated on proofs of concept for a dream project—a giant experimental rock opera. We worked on manageable short films, including one screened at REDCAT with live performances.
What was that project called?
It’s titled The Singularity Song. I interviewed Nobel astrophysicist Kip Thorne, who is known for wormhole theories. Halyna shot it beautifully, combining his voice with stunning visuals of a dancer named Oguri. We also created another video exhibited in an art gallery, exploring the theme of supernovas.
It’s striking that both films deal with the death of a star, leading to reflection on the unfathomable nature of Halyna’s untimely passing.
Was there a project you worked on that she particularly resonated with?
Halyna was incredibly supportive of my documentary, Circus of Books, which premiered in 2019. She attended the premiere at Outfest and supported everything I did as an artist. Her encouragement extended to all her friends, despite the competitive nature of the industry.
In Last Take, there’s a moment when Bianca Cline, the cinematographer completing Rust, is offered access to Halyna’s production notebook. What insights did you gain about her filmmaking that surprised you?
It felt voyeuristic to access her personal notes after her passing. However, it deepened my admiration for her. Halyna meticulously documented logistics, showcasing her dedication as a cinematographer. Her journals revealed her communication with lens dealers and specific technical details, highlighting her commitment to her craft.
Did you always plan to open the film with interviews from the Rust cast and crew about their motivations for filmmaking?
Understanding how Rust was Halyna’s film was crucial. As I explored Halyna’s contributions, I realized her influence was profound. Her passion for every detail of the film was evident in every interview, from costume design choices to the cinematographic decisions that shaped the film.
How do you think Halyna’s memory will influence your future work as a filmmaker?
I feel Halyna’s presence in my work. Recently, while starting a new project on a murder investigation, I heard her voice encouraging me to forge ahead. Her spirit continues to inspire me as I navigate through challenges.
The post Halyna Hutchins Doc Director on Giving the ‘Rust’ DP Agency in Death: ‘She Was an Artist, Not a Victim’ appeared first on TheWrap.
