Hollywood Cinematographers Demand Ban on Real Weapons During Filming

Following the death of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, more than 200 cinematographers have called for a ban on the use of real firearms on set. Her colleagues have signed an open letter stating that there are many alternatives to real guns in the film industry. This has been reported by the American publication Variety.

The open letter has been signed by 214 individuals, including cinematographer Greig Fraser (Dune), Rachel Morrison (Black Panther), and former president of the American Society of Cinematographers Stephen Lighthill.

In the letter, the cinematographers pledged not to work on projects that use real weapons. They stated that Halyna Hutchins' death should not be in vain, and they expect urgent action and support not only from American authorities and lawmakers but also from Hollywood producers.

The accidental shooting occurred on October 21 on the set of Rust. The film stars Alec Baldwin. The bullet struck 42-year-old cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and wounded the film's director, 48-year-old Joel Souza. Souza's life is not in danger, but the cinematographer could not be saved.