Alec Baldwin’s ‘Rust’: Controversial Western Scores Mixed Reviews

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Rust, a project that has sparked intense debate due to the unfortunate death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, has now been released and is generating quite a stir within the Western genre. It’s challenging to view it objectively given the off-screen events, but most critics seem to agree that Hutchins’ contributions are being widely recognized, even with mixed reviews overall.

Currently, the movie titled “Rust” launched with a 50% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, derived from 20 reviews, earning it a designation as a “rotten” film. This average score mirrors the highly contentious character of the movie and its related aspects. Critics have noted the sparse narrative structure of the film, while others commend its dark, striking visual style. Conversely, Julian Roman from MovieWeb lauded “Rust” as a “masterfully crafted Western, boasting stunning landscapes, intricate characters, and profound explorations into human nature.

In a remarkable turn of events, “Rust” exceeded my high expectations by quite a distance. This Western movie exhibits a strong artistic flair, boasting depth and complexity that belies its troubled production history. A touch of humor adds a delightful contrast to the overall tone. Critics may argue that the climax is predictable, but given Souza’s bravery in completing his vision despite being injured during the accident, it deserves recognition. It’s only fitting that Hutchins is celebrated. For those who admired her, there’s solace in knowing that the film isn’t a catastrophe and her hard work wasn’t for naught.

More to come.

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2025-05-02 18:03