In a significant setback for the production of Alec Baldwin’s film Rust, the New Mexico tax authorities have denied the film’s application for incentives worth $1.6 million for the state’s film incentive program. The decision comes amid ongoing legal and public scrutiny following the tragic on-set shooting incident that claimed the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
The New Mexico Film Office announced that the application for Rust did not meet the necessary criteria to qualify for the incentive program, which offers substantial financial rebates to productions that film within the state. The denial of this application means that Rust will not receive the potential 25-40% rebate on eligible in-state expenditures, a blow to the production’s financial planning.
Rust is an upcoming Western film starring Alec Baldwin in the lead, who also produces and writes the story for the film with writer-director Joel Souza. The production company’s representing attorney, Melina Spadone, said that the production tax incentive amount would be used to settle the legal dispute between the Hutchins’ son and her widower.
“The denial of the tax credit has disrupted those financial arrangements,” she said in a statement. Spadone is senior counsel at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman based in New York- and Los Angeles. (Source: The Associated Press)
As Rust navigates its path forward without the financial backing of New Mexico’s film incentive program, the production faces increased pressure to address safety and legal issues while also managing the logistical and financial challenges of continuing the project.
The decision by the New Mexico Film Office underscores the broader implications of the incident on the film industry, emphasizing the need for rigorous safety standards and accountability.
Amidst the raging controversy over the film’s release and legal battles, Alec Baldwin’s courtroom trial is scheduled for next week under the allegations of involuntary manslaughter as the Hollywood actor pointed a gun at the late cinematographer during rehearsals when it accidentally went off killing her and also injured the director.
