Joel Souza Reflects on Completing ‘Rust’ After Tragedy and Emotional Turmoil

Joel Souza, director of the Western film ‘Rust’, has shared in a new interview the emotional and moral struggles he faced in finishing the project following the tragic on-set shooting that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injured him. In speaking to The Guardian, Souza admitted he initially found the idea of returning to the film repelling but was eventually convinced by a desire to honor Hutchins’ legacy and the encouragement of her family. Though the film is now set to open in theaters, the director confessed he was emotionally devastated throughout production, relying heavily on his crew and family for support.

Souza expressed deep regret over the series of poor decisions that led to the shooting, stating, “I wish I never wrote the damn movie.” He also dismissed Alec Baldwin’s recent reality show, saying he deliberately avoided watching it. ‘Rust’ was completed with cinematographer Bianca Cline, but Souza ensured Hutchins’ contributions were honored with a rare second credit for director of photography. Notably, Souza had committed to hiring a female cinematographer from the beginning in defiance of industry biases. Despite the film’s release, the emotional toll and controversy surrounding it remain heavy for all involved.