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mahina

(20,455 posts)
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 02:52 PM Oct 2021

If it hasn't already been said, some support for Alec Baldwin as we know

He didn’t intend harm and is heartsick for the harm caused.

What an enormous tragedy, so much sorrow and pain.

None of us are perfect and we all make mistakes. No mistake I make in my daily work would cause a life to be lost or cause an injury. I can’t imagine how he is managing the stress and emotions.

He gave us the best TFG mockery that got under his skin. He’s tried to be a good person and he is a fellow Democrat.

Vibes, prayers, positive thoughts, aloha sent can’t hurt.

Wishing peace for the victims families and his family too.

241 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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If it hasn't already been said, some support for Alec Baldwin as we know (Original Post) mahina Oct 2021 OP
K&R! SheltieLover Oct 2021 #1
I feel for him. jimfields33 Oct 2021 #13
It's a movie. Murder mysteries do not glamorize murder. They tell stories. Maraya1969 Oct 2021 #14
Too many guns in Hollywood stories. jimfields33 Oct 2021 #17
Too many guns sold at gun stores. LakeArenal Oct 2021 #37
This is certainly true. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #60
It's a Western set in the 1800's. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #59
sounded kind of knee jerk stopdiggin Oct 2021 #133
It's really weird seeing people like Liam Neeson in the "Taken" series... WarGamer Oct 2021 #71
All the gun nut movies sicken me (and our culture), but the even more obvious question... lagomorph777 Oct 2021 #173
Amen Jilly_in_VA Oct 2021 #2
If you touch a gun the first rule of gun safety is to make sure it is unloaded. former9thward Oct 2021 #9
I've only seen claims that Alec left New Mexico from Fox. Niagara Oct 2021 #15
He had permission from the sheriff to leave anyway. He's already answered questions. meadowlander Oct 2021 #19
I thought so, that's why I asked for a credible source. Niagara Oct 2021 #23
Leave it to FOX, they didn't learn from Seth Rich. 2Gingersnaps Oct 2021 #156
That article doesn't say he left. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #75
No, because as of last night he was still there. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #74
How do you know he didn't speak with the investigators already and get their permission Maraya1969 Oct 2021 #16
That is not how it works on movie sets. There are professionals who handle the guns Evergreen Emerald Oct 2021 #18
Armourer is 24, only second movie as head armourer, meadowlander Oct 2021 #20
I read a similar article. Very scary. BlackSkimmer Oct 2021 #22
Training? Codifer Oct 2021 #47
She was also a scab wackadoo wabbit Oct 2021 #81
Yes-- very key point! Non-union! LymphocyteLover Oct 2021 #83
I have not seen this Zeitghost Oct 2021 #115
don't think that is right stopdiggin Oct 2021 #135
I don't believe that to be the case. LisaL Oct 2021 #145
No. former9thward Oct 2021 #35
You really don't know what you are talking about. Cattledog Oct 2021 #39
Film sets do not get an exemption from standard gun safety. former9thward Oct 2021 #67
Wow. All judged out. Before a release of more info. LakeArenal Oct 2021 #40
Outside a movie set, I could not agree with you more. But there are procedures on sets and hlthe2b Oct 2021 #53
Assistant Director was supposed to check the gun before giving it to Baldwin. LisaL Oct 2021 #66
Obviously their procedures were not followed and incompetence was present. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #77
Reports that some crew members were doing some target practice with the guns womanofthehills Oct 2021 #165
Theater doesn't happen - and that would include movies - unless soldierant Oct 2021 #110
Let's look at what hapopened on that set. former9thward Oct 2021 #68
No one is saying the procedures were either appropriate nor followed. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #76
First Rule Of Weapons Handling... COL Mustard Oct 2021 #26
However you want to phrase it the rule was broken. former9thward Oct 2021 #32
Yup. Another Person COL Mustard Oct 2021 #34
But it WAS loaded... druidity33 Oct 2021 #84
The difference between Progressives and conservatives OrangeJoe Oct 2021 #52
He attended a memorial service in NM gldstwmn Oct 2021 #62
And? former9thward Oct 2021 #69
His family. Not him. You made it seem like he skipped town. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #72
+1 MustLoveBeagles Oct 2021 #157
According to news reports today it looks as though the assistant director was known for lax security gldstwmn Oct 2021 #158
That's not how it works on film sets. Merlot Oct 2021 #120
Film sets do not get an exemption from standard gun safety. former9thward Oct 2021 #141
True, and there are professionals who are there for the gun safety. Merlot Oct 2021 #147
He was also a producer. former9thward Oct 2021 #148
How many... inthewind21 Oct 2021 #205
I'm not going to drag the guy right now ForgedCrank Oct 2021 #3
Alec is distraught as any normal person would be. Niagara Oct 2021 #4
I'm Not Really A Fan Of Alec COL Mustard Oct 2021 #27
Yeah, I'm not a huge fan of his either meadowlander Oct 2021 #38
Good post. n/t NH Ethylene Oct 2021 #126
Same here. Niagara Oct 2021 #48
Very sad situation. Joinfortmill Oct 2021 #5
I'm not a fan, but my heart goes out to both the victims and him. Lunabell Oct 2021 #6
it's a terrible tragedy Skittles Oct 2021 #7
So tragic... Hulk Oct 2021 #8
Absolutely. This is tragic for the family and for Alec. jrthin Oct 2021 #10
K&R 2naSalit Oct 2021 #11
I'm a big fan and absolutely know this was a horrible accident tavernier Oct 2021 #12
I'm Sure The Civil Lawsuits Will Follow COL Mustard Oct 2021 #28
I don't know BeerBarrelPolka Oct 2021 #29
Yeah, But I Think That Had A Larger Budget COL Mustard Oct 2021 #30
Yeah BeerBarrelPolka Oct 2021 #31
I can't even imagine Baldwin wanting to, wnylib Oct 2021 #85
He also held the title of "Producer", the person who makes budget decisions for the project. NullTuples Oct 2021 #150
He's one of twelve producers according to imdb. meadowlander Oct 2021 #160
He was on set, and had the ability to influence what happened. It's that simple. NullTuples Oct 2021 #164
He might not have had those specific duties. wnylib Oct 2021 #161
I've a cousin who did producing for a while. Any one of them has enough clout. NullTuples Oct 2021 #166
I think it was more a case of wnylib Oct 2021 #167
Ah inthewind21 Oct 2021 #206
Then ask your cousin what a line producer is. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #217
I don't think it will ever be finished Withywindle Oct 2021 #109
He was the executive producer and owns the production company. AngryOldDem Oct 2021 #118
The production company was an LLC. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #218
How could this be seen as a mistake? It was an accident, pure and simple... elias7 Oct 2021 #21
How can it be seen as a mistake? former9thward Oct 2021 #70
Baldwin was co-producer. As in "chose not go with union crews" to save money. NullTuples Oct 2021 #106
What I think could have happen? INdemo Oct 2021 #24
Someone suggested that to me last night when we were talking about this. Sh actually niyad Oct 2021 #43
It was my first thought too Tumbulu Oct 2021 #54
Okay, that made my skin crawl. niyad Oct 2021 #56
Honestly that wouldn't surprise me vercetti2021 Oct 2021 #61
Crossed mind more than once too mahina Oct 2021 #64
That's dark and I hope untrue. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #78
OMG! calimary Oct 2021 #116
That scenario is the bases of many a good murder mystery. Farmer-Rick Oct 2021 #125
I Agree. This Is A Tragedy For All Parties Involved. COL Mustard Oct 2021 #25
My spouse is certain he was set up by a Trumper because of SNL performances. apcalc Oct 2021 #33
That was my immediate reaction. YDogg Oct 2021 #41
It sure seems likely to me mahina Oct 2021 #65
K&R. NT ecstatic Oct 2021 #36
Imagine a job where you are handed guns to shoot at people NullTuples Oct 2021 #42
Agree.... No gun should ever be fired in someone's direction. Never. apcalc Oct 2021 #44
Never? Then I'm a fucking criminal. 11 Bravo Oct 2021 #86
Except in self defense... apcalc Oct 2021 #123
Yes, especially since reports say there were problems with the guns already JI7 Oct 2021 #46
You don't have to absolve him of all guilt to feel compassionate towards him. meadowlander Oct 2021 #49
No, corporate insurance now exists to shield from liability and having to increase costs with change NullTuples Oct 2021 #51
I guess what's really bothering me is from his first statement, Baldwin distanced himself NullTuples Oct 2021 #50
Nonsense. The blame can definitely be fixed. Random Boomer Oct 2021 #107
What about the producer(s) who decided to save money and not go w/professionals? NullTuples Oct 2021 #112
Did you even read my statement? Random Boomer Oct 2021 #174
Those are some amazing gynastics. But also, anyone who handles a gun is responsible for it. NullTuples Oct 2021 #178
Problem is, the actor is also the producer & they make the decisions that affect budget. NullTuples Oct 2021 #149
No, the person holding the weapon is ultimately the one responsible. marie999 Oct 2021 #184
I always find it fascinating when people say the one who pulled the trigger is not responsible. NullTuples Oct 2021 #241
There is probably a crisis management team in place and everyone gldstwmn Oct 2021 #219
That explanation is in the LA Times article. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #80
Thank you for your caring and compassionate post. niyad Oct 2021 #45
Yes, horrible for all TFRD Oct 2021 #55
Looks like an inexperience armorer is a factor. No way a live... brush Oct 2021 #57
My heart goes out to him. yardwork Oct 2021 #58
Amen Chicagogrl1 Oct 2021 #63
I'm sorry but... Jetheels Oct 2021 #73
Live ammunition doesn't mean an actual bullet. LisaL Oct 2021 #79
This could be a career killer for him. trof Oct 2021 #82
I just have one question lordsummerisle Oct 2021 #87
Because he is acting in a movie? LisaL Oct 2021 #88
I see, so the film's cinematographer had a part in the film? n/t lordsummerisle Oct 2021 #92
Cinematographer wasn't even supposed to have been in that position during LisaL Oct 2021 #95
Oh, I get it, it's her own fault that she's dead n/t lordsummerisle Oct 2021 #100
You didn't get what I am saying. LisaL Oct 2021 #101
I guess if I were test firing a gun I wouldn't point it at a person first. lordsummerisle Oct 2021 #102
He was told the gun was empty. LisaL Oct 2021 #103
Post removed Post removed Oct 2021 #104
wasn't 'test firing' a gun stopdiggin Oct 2021 #138
You notice that too. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #168
There are inthewind21 Oct 2021 #208
He deserves some of it. Happy Hoosier Oct 2021 #222
As I understand it... Happy Hoosier Oct 2021 #223
Why are we so willing sarisataka Oct 2021 #89
What do you propose be done with him? LisaL Oct 2021 #90
Nothing at this time sarisataka Oct 2021 #91
Armorer put the guns on the cart. LisaL Oct 2021 #94
To me that is a problem sarisataka Oct 2021 #98
you're setting up a LOT of conditions and protocol stopdiggin Oct 2021 #139
I do not know how it is actually done sarisataka Oct 2021 #146
what I kind of thought stopdiggin Oct 2021 #151
I agree sarisataka Oct 2021 #154
go along with that 100% stopdiggin Oct 2021 #155
AD also a cowboy meadowlander Oct 2021 #159
Yet, you immediately assume the ACTOR to be at fault. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #169
If you had bothered to read this thread sarisataka Oct 2021 #175
Uhh, huh. I've read your implied statements as well. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #176
Well you have certainly won sarisataka Oct 2021 #177
Nice that you post an image of a body in a thread discussing a horrendous human tragedy... hlthe2b Oct 2021 #183
Woosh... sarisataka Oct 2021 #187
Nothing complicated about your posting an image of a body in a thread about a horrendous death. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #188
I take life and death extremely seriously sarisataka Oct 2021 #194
And to prove it you post an image of a dead body to show your concern for this tragedy... hlthe2b Oct 2021 #195
Apparently your observational skills failed to note sarisataka Oct 2021 #196
and your empathetic sense appears to be missing. This is a human tragedy--not one for exploitation. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #197
If it's so serious sarisataka Oct 2021 #199
You boiled this tragedy down to a reprehensible joking image of a dead body so if that is civil hlthe2b Oct 2021 #201
My thoughts have been consistent sarisataka Oct 2021 #202
Maybe you should've left it at "I don't know how it Is actually done!" Nt USALiberal Oct 2021 #220
Lol nt sarisataka Oct 2021 #231
And Baldwin should have verified Happy Hoosier Oct 2021 #224
So you think that he should know how movie guns are loaded?? USALiberal Oct 2021 #93
He should know the safety protocols sarisataka Oct 2021 #96
I doubt the producers also tell the stuntman how to do their work. nt USALiberal Oct 2021 #97
Is the producer would ask the stuntmen how the desired effect sarisataka Oct 2021 #99
Maybe have a person trained on guns to handle the guns instead of the actor. Kaleva Oct 2021 #114
Nobody should handle a gun w/o training. Period. NullTuples Oct 2021 #153
Yes n/t Devil Child Oct 2021 #128
Of course! Happy Hoosier Oct 2021 #225
It's creepy to me. Devil Child Oct 2021 #129
What's creepier is people creating their own realities to claim Baldwin is guilty of something other uponit7771 Oct 2021 #171
Nah, I still think people carrying water for a rich dude who killed a woman and injured another dude Devil Child Oct 2021 #179
Donald Trump Jr. has a t-shirt for you to wear. Paladin Oct 2021 #181
"Negligence with firearms kills" Devil Child Oct 2021 #193
Beats me. Why don't you ask Don Jr.? Paladin Oct 2021 #198
No interest Devil Child Oct 2021 #203
I would defend James Woods and Scott Baio over the same thing obamanut2012 Oct 2021 #185
I would condemn James Woods and Scott Baio over the same thing Devil Child Oct 2021 #192
He is probably suffering from PTSD, he canceled gldstwmn Oct 2021 #221
Go back and read it again sarisataka Oct 2021 #232
I used to work in a job that was a great deal of inspecting and certifying complex... BobTheSubgenius Oct 2021 #105
This message was self-deleted by its author xfile-gg08-0000f5d7 Oct 2021 #108
No winners here, Aussie105 Oct 2021 #111
Why? Kev80 Oct 2021 #113
It's just damn sad. AngryOldDem Oct 2021 #117
He's liable as a producer. RandySF Oct 2021 #119
He was the on set producer and aimed a gun at a person. Kablooie Oct 2021 #121
If The Director Told Him To Do It Deep State Witch Oct 2021 #136
A producer or AD can override the director ... Kablooie Oct 2021 #143
He was not the on set producer. That's the line producer. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #227
I know. But he was A producer on the set. Kablooie Oct 2021 #238
The lesson? kentuck Oct 2021 #122
and how many movie scenes stopdiggin Oct 2021 #144
The assistant director seems to be the guy responsible for leaving an unchecked gun around. BlancheSplanchnik Oct 2021 #124
Odd to see this need to circle the wagons around Baldwin Devil Child Oct 2021 #127
Odd to see the assumption that the actor and not the gun professionals to be at fault. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #170
+1, looks like "Baldwin's guilty" FUD going around uponit7771 Oct 2021 #172
Yes, the more information comes out, the more I realize Wingus Dingus Oct 2021 #180
Some of the arguments here leave me speechless (like the poster upstream who maintains this hlthe2b Oct 2021 #182
Mostly it seems a litmus test for whether or not someone likes or hates Alec Baldwin. Wingus Dingus Oct 2021 #189
Yes. And I can honestly say if it were a RW actor-- like James Woods or other-- I'd feel similarly. hlthe2b Oct 2021 #190
I feel the same. Whether or not you like that actor as a person, they're doing their professional Wingus Dingus Oct 2021 #191
I've never been near a real gun, but I know for sure that you NEVER aim at a human being.... LAS14 Oct 2021 #130
I know right inthewind21 Oct 2021 #209
Yes, lots of sympathy for him, but... Joinfortmill Oct 2021 #131
When these movie accidents happen BootinUp Oct 2021 #132
The S**t Has Already Started Deep State Witch Oct 2021 #134
Why was the gun pointed at the cinematographer? nt LAS14 Oct 2021 #137
It wasn't inthewind21 Oct 2021 #210
Oh! Thanks. Do you remember where you saw this? nt LAS14 Oct 2021 #211
In the search warrant, from the director who was shot. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #228
Thanks very much! nt LAS14 Oct 2021 #240
He should be ejected from SAG IbogaProject Oct 2021 #140
What union the armorer wasn't in? LisaL Oct 2021 #142
Not sure but there have been issues all over this year IbogaProject Oct 2021 #163
lol obamanut2012 Oct 2021 #186
Nasty and mean. Pathwalker Oct 2021 #204
Just sad all around. Wingus Dingus Oct 2021 #152
Alec's a living victim bound to this tragedy that took a life, and changed Bluethroughu Oct 2021 #162
Everyone who handles a gun should safety check it. Kaleva Oct 2021 #207
I agree, but in his defense, prop guns and the dummy or hollow bullets Bluethroughu Oct 2021 #212
Baldwin the told the revolver was empty. It'd be easy to see if it was or wasn't Kaleva Oct 2021 #213
You are right assistant director shouldn't even handle the gun. Bluethroughu Oct 2021 #214
I also hope that people outside the movie industry learn from this too. Kaleva Oct 2021 #215
Me too. Bluethroughu Oct 2021 #216
A problem for Alec Baldwin is that it may point back to the executive producer: Alec Baldwin. Iggo Oct 2021 #200
There are 11 producers on this film. gldstwmn Oct 2021 #229
Mm-hmm. Iggo Oct 2021 #235
From KOB4: gldstwmn Oct 2021 #236
People die probably every day due to workplace accidents Steelrolled Oct 2021 #226
Let's say Donald Trump knocked a Diet Coke onto the little red button and started WWIII. meadowlander Oct 2021 #230
They say the guy who accidently killed Brandon Lee never got over it. nt Quixote1818 Oct 2021 #233
Good people are often filled with guilt even if it was total mistake JI7 Oct 2021 #237
200th Rec Hekate Oct 2021 #234
200 moments of kindness mahina Oct 2021 #239

SheltieLover

(77,154 posts)
1. K&R!
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 02:54 PM
Oct 2021

I've been think of him & the victims families.

One has to wonder why real "live" ammo was on a movie set to begin with.

 

jimfields33

(19,382 posts)
13. I feel for him.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:38 PM
Oct 2021

Weirdly he is pro gun control, but easily shows a Hollywood movie glamorizing guns. Doesn’t make sense.

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
59. It's a Western set in the 1800's.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:30 PM
Oct 2021

He's an actor. Without having seen the movie how can you say it glamorizes guns? Maybe it does just the opposite.

stopdiggin

(15,074 posts)
133. sounded kind of knee jerk
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 10:50 AM
Oct 2021

westerns have (from their very inception) perpetrated the idea of heavily armed west (and frontier). And that has certainly been overdone (as purely accurate history). But that's kind of a different argument than just saying , "too many guns."

WarGamer

(18,257 posts)
71. It's really weird seeing people like Liam Neeson in the "Taken" series...
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:14 PM
Oct 2021

He's pro-gun control but stars in a set of 3 films with gratuitous gun violence.

lagomorph777

(30,613 posts)
173. All the gun nut movies sicken me (and our culture), but the even more obvious question...
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 08:51 AM
Oct 2021

is WHY they need actual guns on set, EVER? Modern computer-generated imagery can conjure up entire worlds, so realistic you can almost touch and taste them. There is ZERO excuse for actual firearms on set. CGI can put in a muzzle flash that's realer than real, and don't even get me started on modern sound effect capabilities.

Jilly_in_VA

(13,873 posts)
2. Amen
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 02:57 PM
Oct 2021

The fault here is apparently with the person known as the "armorer" who was supposed to have a) checked the gun first to make sure it was "cold", and b) retrieved it immediately. At least that's the way it was explained to me by someone who knows a little bit about these things. Guns, even "cold" ones, are not supposed to be left in anyone's hands on set. That's what she said.

former9thward

(33,424 posts)
9. If you touch a gun the first rule of gun safety is to make sure it is unloaded.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:36 PM
Oct 2021

Period. Baldwin touched the gun. Beyond that, I will have to wait for the investigation to reveal all the facts. I was sorry to see Baldwin leave the state so quickly where it will be difficult for investigators to ask any follow up questions.

Niagara

(11,593 posts)
15. I've only seen claims that Alec left New Mexico from Fox.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:43 PM
Oct 2021

Is there a reliable source that stated he definitely left New Mexico?

meadowlander

(5,099 posts)
19. He had permission from the sheriff to leave anyway. He's already answered questions.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:49 PM
Oct 2021
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/alec-baldwin-shooting-24-year-old-gun-worker-hannah-gutierrez-wasnt-sure-if-she-was-ready-for-role/A3EDAWHPIC7ZSCNFQ4I6GE5SNQ/

"No immediate charges were filed, and sheriff's spokesman Juan Rios said Baldwin was permitted to travel.

"He's a free man," Rios said."

Also it's the 21st century. They can ask follow up questions using email or, you know, telephones.

Niagara

(11,593 posts)
23. I thought so, that's why I asked for a credible source.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:05 PM
Oct 2021

Like I said, the only "source" that claimed he left New Mexico quickly was Fox, so I wanted to double check to make sure that I wasn't missing something.



And I'm sure that Alec gave the sheriffs department his business card in case they need to ask more questions later.

2Gingersnaps

(1,000 posts)
156. Leave it to FOX, they didn't learn from Seth Rich.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:44 PM
Oct 2021

"leave no grave undanced on in pursuit of bagging a big lib."

Maraya1969

(23,422 posts)
16. How do you know he didn't speak with the investigators already and get their permission
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:44 PM
Oct 2021

to leave? I'm fairly sure that is what happened. And they can always talk more over a video app.

meadowlander

(5,099 posts)
20. Armourer is 24, only second movie as head armourer,
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:54 PM
Oct 2021
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/alec-baldwin-shooting-24-year-old-gun-worker-hannah-gutierrez-wasnt-sure-if-she-was-ready-for-role/A3EDAWHPIC7ZSCNFQ4I6GE5SNQ/

Quotes from her interview for her last film:

She said: "It was also my first time being head armourer as well. You know, I was really, really nervous about it at first, and I almost didn't take the job because I wasn't sure if I was ready but, doing it, like, it went really smoothly."

She added: "You know, I think loading blanks was the scariest thing to me because I was like: 'Oh I don't know anything about it.'

"But you know, [her father] taught me that and eventually, by the time I was trying to figure out how to make a specific blank go when you want it to rather than it hitting the empty cylinders and everything, I figured that out on my own."
 

BlackSkimmer

(51,308 posts)
22. I read a similar article. Very scary.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:03 PM
Oct 2021

Seems that would be a job that would require training, certification, or at least an apprenticeship of some sort?

Codifer

(1,174 posts)
47. Training?
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:55 PM
Oct 2021

Seems like her father forgot to tell her that a Smith & Wesson cylinder rotates counterclockwise (as seen from the hammer end) and a Colt will rotate clockwise. I had to check and change my post because I had it exactly backwards. I have not fired a round in thirty years.

I hope that streak will not be broken.

wackadoo wabbit

(1,289 posts)
81. She was also a scab
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 07:04 PM
Oct 2021

The union armorer walked off the set because of unsafe conditions/was fired (I forget which, and it's not important enough to me to spend the time to look it up) that morning/the evening before.

 

Zeitghost

(4,557 posts)
115. I have not seen this
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 02:15 AM
Oct 2021

Do you have a link? Everything I have read says the union camera crew walked hours before the shooting. The armorer named in the reports was the only one hired to do that job as far as I can tell.

stopdiggin

(15,074 posts)
135. don't think that is right
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 10:56 AM
Oct 2021

this person was with the film well in advance of the walk out. Not a last minute replacement.

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
145. I don't believe that to be the case.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:42 AM
Oct 2021

Pretty sure she was on the set from the very beginning.

former9thward

(33,424 posts)
35. No.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:28 PM
Oct 2021

If you handle a working gun you are responsible. Period. The gun does not care it is on a movie set.

Cattledog

(6,597 posts)
39. You really don't know what you are talking about.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:36 PM
Oct 2021

And the process involved in handling guns on a film set.

former9thward

(33,424 posts)
67. Film sets do not get an exemption from standard gun safety.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:02 PM
Oct 2021
The day before the deadly incident, a large number of people in the camera department resigned over reasons including an apparent lack of safety protocols, a member of the camera crew who quit the production told ABC News.

On a day prior to Thursday's fatal shooting, there were two accidental discharges within 10 minutes, according to the former crew member.

The issue of gun safety had been brought up by the camera crew and allegedly brushed off repeatedly by producers, said the person, who had already left the set before the fatal shooting occurred.


https://abcnews.go.com/US/crew-members-hospitalized-prop-gun-misfires-set-alec/story?id=80715740

LakeArenal

(29,949 posts)
40. Wow. All judged out. Before a release of more info.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:36 PM
Oct 2021

Just like we do all good Democrat’s accused of anything.

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
53. Outside a movie set, I could not agree with you more. But there are procedures on sets and
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:07 PM
Oct 2021

professionals hired to oversee those procedures. Even those actors who have handled guns have to acquiesce to the professionals hired to do so and follow their instructions. Quite obviously those policies were insufficient, and/or subject to breakdown, and/or the armorer incompetent, but the situation is not the same as in the world at large.

A major investigation of set procedures needs to come from this and frankly, a move toward CGI over functional guns will/should likely be the result. Some shows (e.g., HBO's Mare of Easttown) have already adopted a CGI-only approach using fake guns.

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
66. Assistant Director was supposed to check the gun before giving it to Baldwin.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:58 PM
Oct 2021

Armorer was supposed to have checked the gun before that. Head armorer didn't have much experience.
Those would be the two people most responsible for this, as far as I can tell.

"According to the affidavit, Gutierrez-Reed had placed three prop guns on a cart outside where the scene was being filmed, before Halls grabbed a revolver from the cart and gave it to Baldwin. Halls called out “cold gun!” on set, according to the affidavit."

https://www.thedailybeast.com/alec-baldwin-film-rust-hired-inexperienced-armorer-hannah-gutierrez-reed-before-halyna-hutchins-shooting

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
77. Obviously their procedures were not followed and incompetence was present.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:43 PM
Oct 2021

and in this case, the actor--Baldwin--becomes the unwitting hand behind the tragedy.

womanofthehills

(10,724 posts)
165. Reports that some crew members were doing some target practice with the guns
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 06:57 PM
Oct 2021

When they weren’t filming - with actual bullets.

Also, crew was pissed because they were working 13 hr days in Santa Fe and their hotels were in Albuquerque because Santa Fe hotels were too expensive. They said it was dangerous for them to drive so far when they were exhausted.

soldierant

(9,292 posts)
110. Theater doesn't happen - and that would include movies - unless
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:35 AM
Oct 2021

every professional can trust the other professionals with whom he or she is working.

I am sure Baldwin trusted the Assistant Director. The Armourer was supposed to be one link away from him in the chain.

I'm not being very coherent, I realize.

former9thward

(33,424 posts)
68. Let's look at what hapopened on that set.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:04 PM
Oct 2021
The day before the deadly incident, a large number of people in the camera department resigned over reasons including an apparent lack of safety protocols, a member of the camera crew who quit the production told ABC News.

On a day prior to Thursday's fatal shooting, there were two accidental discharges within 10 minutes, according to the former crew member.

The issue of gun safety had been brought up by the camera crew and allegedly brushed off repeatedly by producers, said the person, who had already left the set before the fatal shooting occurred.

https://abcnews.go.com/US/crew-members-hospitalized-prop-gun-misfires-set-alec/story?id=80715740

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
76. No one is saying the procedures were either appropriate nor followed.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:42 PM
Oct 2021

Just that a movie set is different than your responsibilities outside such confines. Whether it should be or not, is up for debate. As is whether even guns that accept blanks should be allowed at all anymore--as opposed to fake props with CGI applied for the shooting effects. As I said, HBO is already moving in this new direction. I suspect many many sets will in the future, despite the added cost.

COL Mustard

(8,015 posts)
26. First Rule Of Weapons Handling...
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:14 PM
Oct 2021

The gun is always loaded. You may check it and be certain it's unloaded, but it's still loaded. You always treat it that way. I learned that from before my Army time.

druidity33

(6,869 posts)
84. But it WAS loaded...
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 07:10 PM
Oct 2021

(supposedly) with blanks. Can you distinguish between a blank and a real shell without removing it? That's what the freaking armorer is for! I wouldn't trust an actor to do any of that! They're actors fer chrissakes! He's supposed to be shooting that thing at people! It's not the real world! He was handed a gun and told it was "cold" by the professional whose job it was to check on these things. Are you trying to suggest that Alec Baldwin is somehow responsible because he didn't check the bullets?



OrangeJoe

(555 posts)
52. The difference between Progressives and conservatives
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:03 PM
Oct 2021

While this post has a whiff of concern troll combined with "just asking questions", the main take away I've seen on this requires one to play a little game of mental substitution. In general we have seen very little criticism or snarkiness from fellow progressives on this event.

However, let's say an actor who was very critical of the Democrats, especially Hillary, had suffered this same event. Can you imagine all of the conspiracy theories that would have blossomed claiming that somehow "Killary" had arranged (probably sneaking onto the set herself) to load the gun with a live round just to discredit the MAGA supporting actor?

former9thward

(33,424 posts)
69. And?
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:11 PM
Oct 2021

Alec Baldwin's family was spotted packing up to head to the Hamptons on Friday following the deadly shooting on his movie set.

Baldwin's assistants were seen packing luggage into cars a day after the actor fatally shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 42, on the set of his upcoming movie "Rust." Production on the set of "Rust" has been halted indefinitely after the prop gun was misfired at Bonanza Creek Ranch, in New Mexico.

https://www.yahoo.com/now/alec-baldwin-family-spotted-packing-193210701.html

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
72. His family. Not him. You made it seem like he skipped town.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:20 PM
Oct 2021

They probably left so they could avoid being hounded by the press. He is fully cooperating with the investigation yet some folks want to see his head on a pike. Why is that?

MustLoveBeagles

(14,921 posts)
157. +1
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 01:04 PM
Oct 2021

I'm cutting him some slack because we don't know the full story yet and he's cooperated with investigators. If he wasn't cooperating and behaving like an entitled asshat I'd feel differently. Also he's listed as one of several co-producers on this movie. Did that mean he had the authority to make decisions on the set or was he only an investor in the project and the title was merely honorary?

I have to say I'm not liking the rush to judgement. I don't understand the need to kick him when he's down. I think the only facts we can be certain about is that there was lax to non-existent gun safety protocols and a union dispute over lodgings, withheld wages and the previously mentioned safety concerns that led to a walk out. Let the investigation play out. If it turns out he's culpable in some way then he needs to held accountable.

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
158. According to news reports today it looks as though the assistant director was known for lax security
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 01:17 PM
Oct 2021

Protocals among other things. If anyone is charged it looks like it will be him. He should never work in the industry again.

Merlot

(9,696 posts)
120. That's not how it works on film sets.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 04:15 AM
Oct 2021

Every one has a job to do. It was someones job to make sure the gun was not loaded.

Merlot

(9,696 posts)
147. True, and there are professionals who are there for the gun safety.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:52 AM
Oct 2021

The actor is not a gun safety professional and would have no way of knowing what is in a gun. The actor would trust the professionals to do their job, the same way the actor has someone else do hair, make up, and costume to ensure continuity. The actor arrives on set to deliver their lines and do what is told/expected of them.

former9thward

(33,424 posts)
148. He was also a producer.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:56 AM
Oct 2021

And he would have had knowledge of safety issues on the set.

The day before the deadly incident, a large number of people in the camera department resigned over reasons including an apparent lack of safety protocols, a member of the camera crew who quit the production told ABC News.

On a day prior to Thursday's fatal shooting, there were two accidental discharges within 10 minutes, according to the former crew member.

The issue of gun safety had been brought up by the camera crew and allegedly brushed off repeatedly by producers, said the person, who had already left the set before the fatal shooting occurred.


https://abcnews.go.com/US/crew-members-hospitalized-prop-gun-misfires-set-alec/story?id=80715740

ForgedCrank

(3,034 posts)
3. I'm not going to drag the guy right now
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:02 PM
Oct 2021

because what he is going through is a terrible thing for anyone to have to endure, and I hope he finds his way through it.
But I don't think we can call Baldwin a good guy. He has had a rather checkered history of bad behavior. But none of that is even relevant in this matter. He has also done a lot of good work for us in the public eye.
I find it to be pretty low of anyone to accuse him of doing anything like this on purpose, and I really hope they knock it off.
He is probably going to be dealing with this for years in the civil world, and will be forced to relive this way too many times during litigation actions. I wouldn't wish this on anyone.

Niagara

(11,593 posts)
4. Alec is distraught as any normal person would be.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:13 PM
Oct 2021

He also attended the private memorial for Halyna Hutchins and her family knows that this was a tragic accident.



He has said some questionable things in the past, but like you said, none of us are perfect.



Today is his daughters (Ireland) 26th birthday. I gave her a shout out so hopefully it makes her day a little less crappy.

COL Mustard

(8,015 posts)
27. I'm Not Really A Fan Of Alec
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:17 PM
Oct 2021

I think he's done some really obnoxious and crappy things (especially to Ireland) but I'm willing to give him a break on this and at least have some normal person sympathy.

meadowlander

(5,099 posts)
38. Yeah, I'm not a huge fan of his either
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:35 PM
Oct 2021

but if I reflect on the top five worst experiences any human could ever have to live through, this is pretty high on my list.

1. Parent having to bury child
2. Accidentally killing someone else
3. Victim of violent assault or rape
4. Being bombed out of your house in a war and becoming a refugee
5. Illness takes away your ability to live independently

To me, those are the experiences that would leave me really struggling to find the strength to continuing living myself.

What's not helpful in those situations? Armchair investigators immediately scrutinizing why you didn't check up on your child more often or why you left the alarms off that night or why you ate so much salty food or why you didn't check that the prop gun you were handed by someone whose job it is to ensure firearm safety on set had been safely prepared for you.

Seriously? Even if it is the "number one rule of gun safety" that's not a reason why we can't feel compassion for Alec Baldwin (and everyone else working their way through what must be almost unbearable guilt right now). People make mistakes. I think the point here is that the consequences are so unintended and so disproportionate to the level of culpability of any one individual that it's actually really callous to be piling on right now.

Niagara

(11,593 posts)
48. Same here.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:57 PM
Oct 2021

I liked him before I heard the voicemail message that he left for Ireland some years back. He's well known for his homophobic slurs as well.




He's obviously distraught that this tragedy happened. I'm willing to give him a break this tragedy too. I'm hoping that he finds a therapist to help him through this ordeal. It certainly can't hurt.

 

Lunabell

(7,309 posts)
6. I'm not a fan, but my heart goes out to both the victims and him.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:19 PM
Oct 2021

How tragic for all, but he has to live with the pain of this for the rest of his life. A life was ended at his hands through a freak accident.

 

Hulk

(6,699 posts)
8. So tragic...
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:29 PM
Oct 2021

I can't imagine the mental anguish this would cause anyone with a conscience. He must be dealing with a weight, unimaginable.

Of course "cheap characters" will find glee in making his life a hell to live through.

How does one feel when they accidentally kill a pedestrian, or cyclist, or some other terrible accident.

fox-propaganda's slew of unscrupulous deplorables want to pour salt in his deep wound in vengeance for him mocking their orange puss-head cult leader. Such sick, disgusting sewage dwellers.

tavernier

(14,294 posts)
12. I'm a big fan and absolutely know this was a horrible accident
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:38 PM
Oct 2021

and in no way his fault.

I do wonder as a producer, was he aware of the shoddy unprofessional and rushed way this film was being put together? There were so many worker safety complaints among other things. I was surprised to read the list of grievances by the crew in the LA times. Normally don’t the actors support the crew, or as a producer was he more restricted due to budget issues? I think he will be called to answer some of those types of questions.

COL Mustard

(8,015 posts)
28. I'm Sure The Civil Lawsuits Will Follow
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:18 PM
Oct 2021

This movie will probably never see the light of day.

BeerBarrelPolka

(2,173 posts)
29. I don't know
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:20 PM
Oct 2021

The Twilight Zone was more of a tragedy. There was a trial and yet the movie got released.

COL Mustard

(8,015 posts)
30. Yeah, But I Think That Had A Larger Budget
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:22 PM
Oct 2021

If I read correctly, this was being done for less than $6M...not much room for expenses. But I hear what you're saying....

BeerBarrelPolka

(2,173 posts)
31. Yeah
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:25 PM
Oct 2021

I see your point as well. This is more of a low budget while Twilight Zone was more of a mega movie. Sad either way.

wnylib

(25,355 posts)
85. I can't even imagine Baldwin wanting to,
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 07:13 PM
Oct 2021

or even being psychologically capable of, appearing on a set again for this movie, and he was the star. They would have to start over with a new lead. I doubt it will happen.

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
150. He also held the title of "Producer", the person who makes budget decisions for the project.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:02 PM
Oct 2021

Like whether to go with a union shop, and all the accompanying safety regulations that affect cost but save workers' lives.

meadowlander

(5,099 posts)
160. He's one of twelve producers according to imdb.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 01:28 PM
Oct 2021

Do we have any evidence how they split up the responsibilities between them?

I know on a lot of productions they'll make the star one of the "producers" without any actual responsibilities because they stake some money on the project and then afterwards they get more of the profits. It doesn't necessarily mean he was the one solely responsible for making budget decisions.

Without the details of the specific arrangement between the twelve of them, I don't think you can say "he's a producer therefore the buck stops with him on every decision made in the production".

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
164. He was on set, and had the ability to influence what happened. It's that simple.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 06:55 PM
Oct 2021

He was not "just an actor" working a job, doing what he was told.

wnylib

(25,355 posts)
161. He might not have had those specific duties.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 01:50 PM
Oct 2021

He was just one producer among others on the project, The responsibilities for various aspects would have been split among them according to their areas of expertise.

I do not know exactly what happened any more than you do. But, one possible scenario that is not unusual in movies is that someone gets an idea to do a particular film, but lacks money. He/she makes several contacts to drum up interest and financial contributions. These contacts hash out ideas and it occurs to them that drawing in a big name increases chances of more people willing to invest in the project.

So they contact Baldwin to offer the starring role. He thinks it has possibilities but needs some script changes and wants a say in making them and in who will play some of the roles. They agree because it means getting him and getting more financial backing due to his name. He agrees to invest funds in it, too, since he believes that his changes make the film more likely to succeed.

So they include his name as one of the producers, but his production contributions and responsibility areas are limited to script reviews and changes, getting some actors in certain roles, and chipping in some of the money. He might suggest someone to do the actual filming, based on his experience and contacts. But his expertise is in the artistic side - acting, script and story development. Also, as the lead actor, he will be too busy to get involved in the practical side of production.

So the practical side is handled, as usual, by the production company that asked Baldwin to be in the film. They do the hiring of directors, film crew, actors, and various props departments like wardrobe, makeup, and the person who handles the weapons and ammunition. The production company makes decisions about handing safety complaints, employee walkoffs and hiring replacements. That is not Baldwin's area of expertise, so he does not get involved in it.

I do not know if that is exactly how it happened. It is just a likely scenario based on some of the known facts and on how film production operates. We know, for example, that it was a low budget film. We know that it is the production companies that do the staff hirings, firings, and replacements of people on the sets. We also know that production companies try to boost financial investment through the use of big name stars and that they offer stars some control over the creative process in writing and acting in order to persuade them to take the lead role and to invest some money in the film. In return, the lead actor gets billing as one of the producers for his artistic contributions. We know, if the reports are accurate, that Baldwon contributed some of the money for the film.

I doubt that Baldwin was involved in the hiring of replacements for employees who walked off the set, or in the hiring or supervision of Gutierez, who handled the arms and ammunition. But, since Baldwin was one of the financial contributors, is listed as one of the producers, and is the one who fired the gun, it is very likely that he will be named in civil suits.

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
166. I've a cousin who did producing for a while. Any one of them has enough clout.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 06:57 PM
Oct 2021

He was on set & had to be aware of the problems that had been occurring. He had the power to stop it.

That's on top of the really weird assumption that if someone is going to handle a gun because it's their job, they have no responsibility to learn and follow all gun safety rules and guidelines. I mean, sure - it works for cops, but it shouldn't.

wnylib

(25,355 posts)
167. I think it was more a case of
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 07:06 PM
Oct 2021

Baldwin trusting that the production company was handling the situation. But, people will believe what they want to.

 

inthewind21

(4,616 posts)
206. Ah
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 04:58 PM
Oct 2021

The my cousins sisters husbands brothers girlfriends neighbors hairdresser statement of all knowing fact.

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
217. Then ask your cousin what a line producer is.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:02 PM
Oct 2021

Baldwin wasn't the line producer but I suspect you'll say hang him high anyway.

Withywindle

(9,989 posts)
109. I don't think it will ever be finished
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:25 AM
Oct 2021

Sounds like the production was already falling apart due to terrible working conditions. Can't imagine anyone being excited to return to it now.

AngryOldDem

(14,180 posts)
118. He was the executive producer and owns the production company.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 03:16 AM
Oct 2021

He certainly could be civilly liable. (Possibly criminally, too, depending on what truly happened.)

I don’t know if insurance or performance bonds will truly cover something like this, either.

It sounds like it was a low-budget film, so you’re probably right.

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
218. The production company was an LLC.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:06 PM
Oct 2021

They will not be able to go after anyone perso in civil court.

elias7

(4,229 posts)
21. How could this be seen as a mistake? It was an accident, pure and simple...
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 03:55 PM
Oct 2021

Alec Baldwin has no blame, though like most of us with a conscience, I’m sure he feels guilt and great pain.

former9thward

(33,424 posts)
70. How can it be seen as a mistake?
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:14 PM
Oct 2021

Most accidents are a mistake by someone. There was apparently a lot of mistakes going on at this filming.

The day before the deadly incident, a large number of people in the camera department resigned over reasons including an apparent lack of safety protocols, a member of the camera crew who quit the production told ABC News.

On a day prior to Thursday's fatal shooting, there were two accidental discharges within 10 minutes, according to the former crew member.

The issue of gun safety had been brought up by the camera crew and allegedly brushed off repeatedly by producers, said the person, who had already left the set before the fatal shooting occurred.

https://abcnews.go.com/US/crew-members-hospitalized-prop-gun-misfires-set-alec/story?id=80715740

INdemo

(7,024 posts)
24. What I think could have happen?
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:10 PM
Oct 2021

Someone in prop department that was a MAGA set the prop gun up with live amination as payback from Trump for all those SNL skits.

niyad

(129,836 posts)
43. Someone suggested that to me last night when we were talking about this. Sh actually
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:42 PM
Oct 2021

knew the whole family many years ago, when Alec and his brothers were young. That was her first thought.

Tumbulu

(6,620 posts)
54. It was my first thought too
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:09 PM
Oct 2021

especially since a bunch of new non Union people came to work on the set just a few hours before.

mahina

(20,455 posts)
64. Crossed mind more than once too
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:57 PM
Oct 2021

It just doesn’t seem like there’s any way that I don’t know it could’ve made it in the chamber without somebody doing that on purpose

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
78. That's dark and I hope untrue.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:54 PM
Oct 2021

There was a rumor that they were sleeping in their cars. Sleep deprivation does strange things to people.

Farmer-Rick

(12,508 posts)
125. That scenario is the bases of many a good murder mystery.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 08:57 AM
Oct 2021

The real murderer loads the prop with live ammo to get someone else to pull the trigger.

My daughter works on sets in LA and this scared the crap out of me. Of course I had to call to make sure she was alright. She said that normal protocol was Not followed and everyone was mourning the death of the director.

But I wouldn't put it past some crazy MAGA setting it up to get back at the libs.

COL Mustard

(8,015 posts)
25. I Agree. This Is A Tragedy For All Parties Involved.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:13 PM
Oct 2021

Ms. Hutchins is dead, her husband is a widower and their son lost his mother. On top of that, Alec Baldwin has to live with the knowledge that he caused it. I don't know if I could get through one day, let alone live the rest of my life like that. I really don't.

I wish everyone involved the peace they need.

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
42. Imagine a job where you are handed guns to shoot at people
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:39 PM
Oct 2021

...and you simply trust that everyone else has done their job properly every time so you don't kill anyone.

I'm sorry, I cannot absolve him completely nor anyone else on that movie set.

I know I should.

But guns are dangerous.

Every time they are handled they must be treated as something that can kill.

And from what I've read, that set was a disaster waiting to happen. And as a side note, this is why unions are so incredibly important for worker safety: they force layer after layer of safety regulations and procedures to be followed. Proudly.

But I also have to ask: Why did he point the gun at the assistant director and pull the trigger?



meadowlander

(5,099 posts)
49. You don't have to absolve him of all guilt to feel compassionate towards him.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:58 PM
Oct 2021

And anyone who works on a complex project with health or safety or significant financial risks knows that no one individual can be expected to be all over every aspect of it. That's why people work in teams and you need to be able to trust that the other people in your team are competent and on the ball. And even then, shit happens. That's why insurance was invented.

He hired someone whose job it was to ensure gun safety on set. Something, somewhere went wrong. When we have the facts, we can make an informed assessment of what portion of blame falls where.

They were rehearsing a shot, probably with the gun pointed at the camera where the director of photography and director were hunched over monitors lining up the shot. He pulled the trigger because he had every reason to believe it was a "cold" prop gun that was not capable of hurting anyone.

It seems pretty clear from what we do know that he didn't intend to hurt anyone and neither did anyone else on that set. They must be going through life-shattering levels of guilt right now.

Given that, I just can't find the motivation to pile on with the gun safety finger-wagging especially when we still don't know a lot of key facts.



NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
51. No, corporate insurance now exists to shield from liability and having to increase costs with change
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:00 PM
Oct 2021

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
50. I guess what's really bothering me is from his first statement, Baldwin distanced himself
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 04:58 PM
Oct 2021

He talked of the incident as a terrible thing that just...happened. On its own, with blame spread thin and wide so really nobody is to blame, right?

Random Boomer

(4,386 posts)
107. Nonsense. The blame can definitely be fixed.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 11:27 PM
Oct 2021

The direct responsibility lies with the Head Armourer. That is there job: to ensure the appropriate weapon is used and that everyone on the set knows exactly what it is, such "cold" or "hot".

The backup on that responsibility is the 1st AD. They double-check what the armorer has provided them, and they also make sure everyone on set is aware of the presence of a hot/cold gun.

Negligence and/or incompetence in both those positions is necessary for such a tragedy to occur. No one else on set bears that responsibility; it's not their job.

Secondary responsibility lies with the director/production company if they hired an armourer without sufficient training and experience, and same for the 1st AD.

That's the trail of responsible parties, not the actor who was handed a weapon. It's not the actor's job to double-check or second guess or do anything other than hit their mark and play their scene as directed.

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
112. What about the producer(s) who decided to save money and not go w/professionals?
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:57 AM
Oct 2021

And by that I mean union crews who make sure worker safety is paramount?

Random Boomer

(4,386 posts)
174. Did you even read my statement?
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 09:16 AM
Oct 2021

I specifically said that the production company was also responsible.

And if Baldwin is part owner of that production company, then he absolutely bears some responsibility, but not as the actor who pulled the trigger on a hot gun he was told was cold.

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
178. Those are some amazing gynastics. But also, anyone who handles a gun is responsible for it.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:22 AM
Oct 2021

Suddenly actors are given this weird pass. It's a job, like any other.

If part of your job was to point guns at people and pull the trigger, you'd make damn sure you knew what you doing and you'd make damn sure you knew how to do it without killing people, right?

This weird idea that actors are absolved from all that because, "they have people to do that for them" is the same reason extremely wealthy people in our country are never held accountable for their actions, either. The blame is intentionally spread to thin when at the end of the day it really is still the responsibility of whoever pulls the trigger to make something happen.

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
149. Problem is, the actor is also the producer & they make the decisions that affect budget.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:00 PM
Oct 2021

It's not mentioned much if at all in the media that Baldwin also has the title of Producer on this film. It's his project from soup to nuts, although I believe there may be a second producer he was the one on-set.

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
241. I always find it fascinating when people say the one who pulled the trigger is not responsible.
Tue Oct 26, 2021, 12:06 PM
Oct 2021

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
219. There is probably a crisis management team in place and everyone
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:14 PM
Oct 2021

is being advised to be careful with what they say just like the cops do when they kill someone accidentally.

TFRD

(205 posts)
55. Yes, horrible for all
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:10 PM
Oct 2021

I really feel for all those exposed to this; it's a tragic accident.

 

brush

(61,033 posts)
57. Looks like an inexperience armorer is a factor. No way a live...
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 05:26 PM
Oct 2021

round should've ever been in the gun put in Baldwin's hand.

 

Jetheels

(991 posts)
73. I'm sorry but...
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 06:22 PM
Oct 2021

Alec Baldwin’s stunt double was handed a supposedly cold gun and it fired a real bullet. This happened two times already. On this very set. Earlier that day many crew walked off the set citing dangerous working conditions. Who would fire a gun after it already happened twice and numerous crew members left the bad unsafe working conditions on thus set. There was already enough evidence that this set was not in proper working order. And who put real bullets in the gun. I think many people are responsible, including Alec Baldwin.
I would never point a squirt gun at anyone, in this day and age.

lordsummerisle

(4,653 posts)
87. I just have one question
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 07:43 PM
Oct 2021

Why did Baldwin pick up any gun, even one he thought wasn't loaded, point it at someone and pull the trigger?

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
88. Because he is acting in a movie?
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 07:44 PM
Oct 2021

Where a person he portrays points the gun and pulls the trigger? He was given the gun and told the gun wasn't loaded with anything, even blanks.

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
95. Cinematographer wasn't even supposed to have been in that position during
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 08:33 PM
Oct 2021

the filming. They were rehearsing when this happened.

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
101. You didn't get what I am saying.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 09:02 PM
Oct 2021

This was a rehearsal. The gun was supposed to have been empty (no blanks).
During the actual filming cinematographer was going to move to a different location. The camera was going to stay in that position, but cinematographer was going to be in a different location.

lordsummerisle

(4,653 posts)
102. I guess if I were test firing a gun I wouldn't point it at a person first.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 09:18 PM
Oct 2021

But that's just me...

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
103. He was told the gun was empty.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 09:20 PM
Oct 2021

So the gun wasn't supposed to fire anything. There are safety gun rules on a movie set. Gun should have been checked prior to being given to Baldwin.

Response to LisaL (Reply #103)

stopdiggin

(15,074 posts)
138. wasn't 'test firing' a gun
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:17 AM
Oct 2021

he was rehearsing a scene - with a prop that had been handed to him (after supposedly being checked by two other individuals) and declared "cold" (no ammunition of any kind). You appear to be working very hard to assign a major portion of blame - to a person that clearly doesn't deserve it.

 

inthewind21

(4,616 posts)
208. There are
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 05:05 PM
Oct 2021

a couple on this thread who are just a bit too zealous to chime in with their "expertise" in all matters cinema and legal.

Happy Hoosier

(9,423 posts)
222. He deserves some of it.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:25 PM
Oct 2021

He didn’t put the bullet there. But once you have a gun in your hand, you hold a great deal of responsibility. A 10 second check could have broken the chain of failures. His was not the only link in that chain, or even the biggest, but it was one.

Happy Hoosier

(9,423 posts)
223. As I understand it...
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:27 PM
Oct 2021

The scene called for Baldwin to draw the gun, aim it at the camera and fire.

The DP and director were there.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
89. Why are we so willing
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 07:50 PM
Oct 2021

To immediately give Baldwin a pass? Is it because he is an actor? Or because we liked him on SNL?

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
90. What do you propose be done with him?
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 07:51 PM
Oct 2021

He is an actor. He as given a gun and told the gun wasn't loaded. Movie set had an armorer who was supposed to check the guns.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
91. Nothing at this time
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 07:55 PM
Oct 2021

I am willing to give a presumption of innocence at this point.

However he is an actor who should know safety protocols and if the assistant director gave him the gun instead of the armorer is that per protocol? If not he may have responsibility to ask that the gun be checked.

Also being producer he may bear some responsibility if standard safety procedures were not being followed.

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
94. Armorer put the guns on the cart.
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 08:33 PM
Oct 2021

Assistant director then picked it off the cart and handed it to Baldwin, claiming the gun was "cold" which means empty.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
98. To me that is a problem
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 08:45 PM
Oct 2021

"Guns on a cart" are not under positive control. If that is the standard, then the armorer, or trained assistant, should check the guns as they go on the cart. A person in charge of the cart stays with it until the guns are given to the actors. If the actors do not get them personally, 9ne specific person per actor should get the gun from the cart delivering it directly to the actor.

At no point would a checked weapon be out of sight of an authorized person. If there is any interruption to the chain of custody the armorer must personally recheck it

stopdiggin

(15,074 posts)
139. you're setting up a LOT of conditions and protocol
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:32 AM
Oct 2021

here. Is this based on your knowledge of procedure existing on other film sets? Union rules?

"At no point would a checked weapon be out of sight of an authorized person. If there is any interruption to the chain of custody the armorer must personally recheck it"

Are you claiming this actual standard protocol? Or just something you think is desirable?

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
146. I do not know how it is actually done
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:44 AM
Oct 2021

But if I were in charge that is the process I would implement.

If the prop guns are just left on a cart waiting for a scene they are not safe to me. You do not know when, or even if, they have been checked.

stopdiggin

(15,074 posts)
151. what I kind of thought
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:02 PM
Oct 2021

Look, there is absolutely no doubt that procedures and safety measures failed here. (both spectacularly and tragically) But I think I'll take my advice on what should be done - from the union guys and the people that actually work the sets.

And if what you're trying to imply here (as are others on this thread) is that someone is deliberately sneaking around to fiddle with and 'sabotage' these weapons ... Calling a hearty BS on that crock as well.
----- -----

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
154. I agree
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:14 PM
Oct 2021

I need a lot more evidence before I invest in the mysterious magat or disgruntled union worker theories.

My suspicion is that standard safety protocols were not being followed due to a combination of carelessness and budget constraints. Being young and inexperienced the armorer did not assert her authority or was ignored older production staff.

stopdiggin

(15,074 posts)
155. go along with that 100%
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:21 PM
Oct 2021

it's been established (or at least alleged) that things were pretty rickety with this shoot. I don't think you need to go a lot further ....

meadowlander

(5,099 posts)
159. AD also a cowboy
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 01:23 PM
Oct 2021
https://edition.cnn.com/2021/10/24/entertainment/rust-shooting-assistant-director-halls-complaints/index.html

"An assistant director on the film set of "Rust" was the subject of complaints over safety and his behavior on set during two productions in 2019, two people who worked closely with him tell CNN.

The complaints against assistant director Dave Halls include a disregard for safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics use, blocked fire lanes and exits, and instances of inappropriately sexual behavior in the workplace...

Maggie Goll, an IATSE Local 44 prop maker and licensed pyrotechnician, said in a statement to CNN that while working on Hulu's "Into the Dark" Anthology Series in February and May of 2019, Halls neglected to hold safety meetings and consistently failed to announce the presence of a firearm on set to the crew, as is protocol...

She adds that the prop master would "announce each day when a gun would be required on camera, the disposition of that weapon -- whether it was a rubber/plastic replica, a non-firing option, or a 'cold' functional, but unloaded option, allowing anyone to inspect said weapon prior to bringing it to set and presenting it to the talent. (...) The Prop Master frequently admonished Dave for dismissing the talent without returning props, weapon included, or failing to make safety announcements."

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
169. Yet, you immediately assume the ACTOR to be at fault.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 05:51 AM
Oct 2021

Was that before or after you found it was Alec Baldwin? Did you read up on how sets handle guns normally? Where did you read that it was the actor and not the host of others and especially the armorer who have the SPECIFIC responsibility for checking every prop gun on the set? That they are hired SPECIFICALLY for that function. To be automatically blaming the actor--few who are gun experts in the real world--for a function that is assigned to experts tells me something. A bit like blaming the surgeon for not checking the disinfection work of everyone who prepared the Operating Suite from the day before. If he or she used an instrument not fully sterilized, well they pulled the proverbial trigger after all (despite the scores of those specifically trained and assigned to perform that disinfecting function). Do you have that expectation as well?

If, and that is a big IF there are procedures specific to that set that require the actor to second guess the actual experts who have already told him that in doing THEIR jobs, the gun is safe then I'd agree with you. But, I've seen nothing of the kind except speculation/accusations from amateur gun owners who have never stepped on a set and had no idea how it works. The latter, who by the way, we rarely hear from when the subject of gun safes is brought up after a child dies or shoots another from an unsecured gun. (How dare we tell a private gun-owner how to secure their own gun! ) But, an actor surrounded by experts assigned to that task? Hell yeah.

So, while I tend to agree with those who question whether functioning guns should be allowed on sets at all, rather than fake props aided by CGI special effects, I'm going to let the investigation play out. Will Alec (the producer, not as the actor) face civil liability for procedures not followed or that could be shown to be criminally negligent? Of course. That is a related but separate issue from holding him criminally or civilly responsible as the actor who inadvertently fired a live round-filled gun.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
175. If you had bothered to read this thread
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 09:37 AM
Oct 2021

You would have come across my post which I will copy here for your convenience. It is my answer to "What should be done with him [Alec Baldwin]?"

I am willing to give a presumption of innocence at this point.

However he is an actor who should know safety protocols and if the assistant director gave him the gun instead of the armorer is that per protocol? If not he may have responsibility to ask that the gun be checked.

Also being producer he may bear some responsibility if standard safety procedures were not being followed.


As I noted, I am not automatically blaming the actor (nor do I care if it is Alec Baldwin or Scott Baio).

Some here who claim knowledge of Hollywood procedures (I never have made such a claim) have indicated it is usually the armorer who would hand out weapons not an AD. If that is correct, then the actor should be asking for verification of a safe gun especially with recent accidents on set. If it is standard for the AD to hand over the weapon then I place no blame on the actor.

If the hospital cafeteria dishwasher handed your hypothetical surgeon the instruments saying they were clean I really hope the surgeon would stop and ask some questions.

As for your allusion to gun safety and security it is something I have always promoted. Once again, here is the link to get free gun locks- https://projectchildsafe.org/safety/get-a-safety-kit/

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
176. Uhh, huh. I've read your implied statements as well.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 09:42 AM
Oct 2021

Your comment about the surgeon being personally responsible for assuring everything that goes on the hospital shows a degree of ludicrous assumptions that demonstrates a lack of serious consideration IMO. So, I won't waste further time with you.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
177. Well you have certainly won
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 09:58 AM
Oct 2021

You thoroughly defeated the argument



Please do not waste more time as I'm sure you will be busy building more of the same.

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
183. Nice that you post an image of a body in a thread discussing a horrendous human tragedy...
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:51 AM
Oct 2021

wow...And I thought what JD Vance posted was bad... Clearly you win on THAT score.

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
188. Nothing complicated about your posting an image of a body in a thread about a horrendous death.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:01 AM
Oct 2021

Do you take ANYTHING seriously? Uggh.

Exploiting someone's horrendous tragedy to score points re: your personal ambivalence towards someone or some issue is disgusting to me.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
194. I take life and death extremely seriously
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:43 AM
Oct 2021

Probably having seen much more first hand than you have.

What I do not take seriously is people who ignore what is actually said but put words in other people's mouths then attack them for what they never said.

Another thing I won't do is give anyone a pre-emptive pass just because I am a fan. (Just watch Beetlejuice again this weekend, one of my all time favorites) Until there is an investigation the actor, armorer, AD and any of the cast and crew who had access to the gun are potentially liable.

BTW- you are still wasting time on me

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
195. And to prove it you post an image of a dead body to show your concern for this tragedy...
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:46 AM
Oct 2021

Exploiting this tragedy for your or anyone else's agenda is disgusting. Trump JR is selling t-shirts that say "Guns don't kill people. Alec Baldwin kills people." Is that really who you wish to emulate with your callous dead body post? A woman died senselessly. That SHOULD matter to us all.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
196. Apparently your observational skills failed to note
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:52 AM
Oct 2021

The "body" was made of straw- like your argument.

My agenda is justice for the victim- you may remember someone really did die in this incident, she is the victim.

I want whomever is at fault, whether it was negligent or intentional, to face the appropriate consequences. I'm sorry if that disgusts you but I cannot control your feelings.

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
197. and your empathetic sense appears to be missing. This is a human tragedy--not one for exploitation.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:55 AM
Oct 2021

It is not a joke, whether your jpg was a real or fake body.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
199. If it's so serious
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 12:13 PM
Oct 2021

Why do you attack with false arguments?

Did I ever say it was all Baldwin's fault? No, in fact I had specifically posted I presume he's innocent.

Did I say your hypothetical surgeon was responsible for personally overseeing pre-op sterilization procedures? No, but I did say they should ask questions if a person clearly not authorized to handle surgical tools brings them to the OR.

Yet you make a strawman arguments then get offended when I point it out. You still have never addressed any of the points I have actually posted, just the ones you made up and making incorrectassumptions.

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
201. You boiled this tragedy down to a reprehensible joking image of a dead body so if that is civil
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 12:36 PM
Oct 2021

and constructive discussion in your mind, I think you are in the minority. If you have come to change your mind about original points made in your earliest posts, then good on you. About time, but better late than never.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
202. My thoughts have been consistent
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 12:46 PM
Oct 2021

Since the start.

I will neither condemn nor excuse anyone without supporting facts.

And here you are still wasting your time...

Happy Hoosier

(9,423 posts)
224. And Baldwin should have verified
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:30 PM
Oct 2021

The weapon was cold. Once you have the gun in your hand, it’s your responsibility. Why not take the 10 seconds to ensure it is safe?

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
96. He should know the safety protocols
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 08:35 PM
Oct 2021

And if they are not being followed he should stop and have everything checked.

I don't expect any actor to be any expert in any field but they should be aware or risks on the set and the measures to mitigate the risks.

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
99. Is the producer would ask the stuntmen how the desired effect
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 08:47 PM
Oct 2021

Is can be achieved safely. They would never in a million years put an untrained person in a fire suit.

Kaleva

(40,235 posts)
114. Maybe have a person trained on guns to handle the guns instead of the actor.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 01:43 AM
Oct 2021

Like they use stunt people to do scenes that would be far too dangerous for an actor to do.

Or they just use replicas that are incapable of actually firing and they work in the effects in editing.

NullTuples

(6,017 posts)
153. Nobody should handle a gun w/o training. Period.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:06 PM
Oct 2021

In a situation like this though, that training would be an added cost put on the Producer's plate.
As would deciding to use union crews who have strict procedures to follow that are designed for one reason, and one reason only: worker safety.
So I blame the producer(s) of the movie. They make the profit and they are are ultimately responsible for everything that happens on a movie set.

Happy Hoosier

(9,423 posts)
225. Of course!
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:32 PM
Oct 2021

No one should be handling a gun without being trained inits operation, including how to load it and especially how to determine it is not loaded with live ammo.

 

Devil Child

(2,728 posts)
129. It's creepy to me.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 09:25 AM
Oct 2021

Give this celeb a pass because he creates entertainment products that is enjoyed and consumed by “our side.”

uponit7771

(93,491 posts)
171. What's creepier is people creating their own realities to claim Baldwin is guilty of something other
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 08:46 AM
Oct 2021

... than being involved in an accident.

The M$M is doing similar and its beyond stupid

 

Devil Child

(2,728 posts)
179. Nah, I still think people carrying water for a rich dude who killed a woman and injured another dude
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:32 AM
Oct 2021

slightly more creepy. Baldwin isn't a victim to me. The ones with bullet wounds and expired pulses are.

YMMV

Paladin

(32,329 posts)
181. Donald Trump Jr. has a t-shirt for you to wear.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:42 AM
Oct 2021

"Guns don't kill people, Alec Baldwin kills people." See related thread here in GD.

That's the sort of company you'll have to keep...

 

Devil Child

(2,728 posts)
193. "Negligence with firearms kills"
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:30 AM
Oct 2021

Do they sell that t-shirt because thats the shirt I'd wear if you are trying to play dress up with me.

Paladin

(32,329 posts)
198. Beats me. Why don't you ask Don Jr.?
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:59 AM
Oct 2021

I'm betting he's better at dress-up than I am, as well.

 

Devil Child

(2,728 posts)
203. No interest
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 01:08 PM
Oct 2021

Figured you would know as you introduced trump to this discussion

But when you are taking orders, "Negligence with firearms kills" in size large please. I prefer US/Union made cotton Ts.

obamanut2012

(29,201 posts)
185. I would defend James Woods and Scott Baio over the same thing
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:55 AM
Oct 2021

It is ridiculous for anyone to be blaming the actor -- any actor -- for this. They are not the armorer, they are not the prop master, they are not the AD.

And, he is not the producer. He is a producer ie given the title as a creative for more points and credits. Elziabeth Moss is a producer for The Handmaid's Tale. It is a creative honor and a monetary one. She does not have a say over the production. She is not THE producer, and neither is Baldwin.

 

Devil Child

(2,728 posts)
192. I would condemn James Woods and Scott Baio over the same thing
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:24 AM
Oct 2021

That's cool we are all sorted out where we stand on the hypothetical.

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
221. He is probably suffering from PTSD, he canceled
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:23 PM
Oct 2021

his upcoming projects, he stayed in NM longer than required, he is going to face a huge civil liability as a producer and half the world is hating on him via social media. I wouldn't be surprised if he's receiving death threats and that's why his family left the city. Do you want him to nail himself to a cross now?

sarisataka

(22,257 posts)
232. Go back and read it again
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:26 PM
Oct 2021

I am asking nothing of Mr Baldwin nor am I condemning him. He is not the subject of my inquiry.

BobTheSubgenius

(12,172 posts)
105. I used to work in a job that was a great deal of inspecting and certifying complex...
Sat Oct 23, 2021, 10:32 PM
Oct 2021

...life safety systems in public buildings. The legal and civil damage exposure was in the millions, and human life was always at stake. It could be nerve-wracking, and I was certainly pressured more than once to sign off on something that I hadn't actually inspected. The scissor lift having been moved from the site, for example.

I ALWAYS stuck to my guns and made specific notations on my report, if necessary. One of those notations got "our" company dismissed from a lawsuit on the first day.
It's just not worth making someone else's day for them when it could mean huge payouts from your company, and the possible end of my career.

And this story is way, way worse. As far as I know, no one ever died from an oversight in our little sphere, although lots of property was damaged over the years.

Response to mahina (Original post)

Aussie105

(7,664 posts)
111. No winners here,
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 12:51 AM
Oct 2021

only losers.

Let the law follow it's due process and let blame fall were it must.

It won't bring back the dead, won't heal the wounded or heal the mental scars this caused.

Kev80

(45 posts)
113. Why?
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 01:37 AM
Oct 2021

Why would there any be live ammo on a movie set? I was in the military. Even then we were told a blank round (always painted blue) still had a range of like 25 meters. Never point your weapon at anyone and never pull the trigger, knowing you had blank rounds. They said a blank round could kill a squirrel at 25 meters.

AngryOldDem

(14,180 posts)
117. It's just damn sad.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 03:12 AM
Oct 2021

I feel for Alec, and I grieve for the DP.

I’m also angry that it took this tragedy to drive home the issue that the film union almost went out on strike over.

Workers are being treated more and more like commodities and interchangeable parts.

Kablooie

(19,057 posts)
121. He was the on set producer and aimed a gun at a person.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 06:22 AM
Oct 2021

Not aiming any gun at any person, empty or not, is rule number one.
Also live ammo is not allowed on any set.
If he knew there was live ammo on set and crew members were Target shooting with it he is squarely responsible.

Deep State Witch

(12,598 posts)
136. If The Director Told Him To Do It
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 10:59 AM
Oct 2021

He did it. How many scenes have we seen with the hero pointing a gun directly at the camera and firing? Especially in Westerns?

If Baldwin is guilty of anything, it's being a producer and hiring non-union crew when the union folks complained about safety. However, on a set, the director is the one in charge, not the producer.

Kablooie

(19,057 posts)
143. A producer or AD can override the director ...
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:40 AM
Oct 2021

In matters of safety. The AD can shut down a production of safety issues are found and union crew members will follow his order.

In this case Baldwin was rehearsing and pointed a gun at a person. That is not acceptable in any situation. All guns are to be treated as loaded even if you know it’s not.

Kablooie

(19,057 posts)
238. I know. But he was A producer on the set.
Tue Oct 26, 2021, 12:47 AM
Oct 2021

Not his job to manage the set but he must have been aware of what was going on.

stopdiggin

(15,074 posts)
144. and how many movie scenes
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:41 AM
Oct 2021

were never shot - employing this standard? It's an easy thing to say ...

BlancheSplanchnik

(20,219 posts)
124. The assistant director seems to be the guy responsible for leaving an unchecked gun around.
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 08:11 AM
Oct 2021

Per CNN, the guy had a long-standing pattern of what I would call toxic masculinity. Lax with firearms, explosives and safety protocols, had complaints lodged against him on prior movie sets.

This is so tragic, I was thinking of poor Alec Baldwin this morning.

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
170. Odd to see the assumption that the actor and not the gun professionals to be at fault.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 05:53 AM
Oct 2021

any actor.

Wingus Dingus

(9,173 posts)
180. Yes, the more information comes out, the more I realize
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:33 AM
Oct 2021

that the job of gun safety doesn't really fall on the actors. The armorers and assistant directors account for the fact that the actors are busy concentrating on THEIR ACTING ROLES and not on the specifics of gun use. As a producer (one of several, as I understand it) he may bear some liability for general safety of the production, but the personnel who were supposed to maintain gun safety ultimately let down Hutchins, Souza and Baldwin.

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
182. Some of the arguments here leave me speechless (like the poster upstream who maintains this
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:50 AM
Oct 2021

responsibility for the actor is not unlike the surgeon being PRIMARILY responsible for ensuring the sterility of instruments and OR before they operate!) So, I suppose they would be willing to delay emergency surgery for the 3-5 hours required while their surgeon personally supervises sterilization of instruments and cleaning of the operating room (or the week-10 days for bacterial cultures to come back obtained from EVERYTHING) before that surgeon declares it safe to operate. (Unbelievable).

I'm happy to see this result in a "no live-capable guns on sets" policy in the future, but mere props plus CGI enhancement. But this excoriation of Baldwin for something he was NOT the professional hired to perform--when even the limited information available to date show that that professional was clearly not supervising or overseeing-- suggests to me something other than mere "concern."

Wingus Dingus

(9,173 posts)
189. Mostly it seems a litmus test for whether or not someone likes or hates Alec Baldwin.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:01 AM
Oct 2021

People obviously can't separate how they feel about someone from the actual event and circumstances, even though they should. I see a lot of gun-nuts really coming after him (I didn't realize he supported gun control), in addition to the usual MAGA's. It could have been any actor in that situation, but it's almost gross to see the barely-disguised glee (even here) because it's Baldwin.

hlthe2b

(112,956 posts)
190. Yes. And I can honestly say if it were a RW actor-- like James Woods or other-- I'd feel similarly.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:04 AM
Oct 2021

Exploiting this tragedy is incomprehensible to me.

Wingus Dingus

(9,173 posts)
191. I feel the same. Whether or not you like that actor as a person, they're doing their professional
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:07 AM
Oct 2021

thing at that moment in time--immersed in a role and concentrating on it--and other professionals let them down. They're all human, none of them want to be responsible for taking the life of a colleague.

LAS14

(15,465 posts)
130. I've never been near a real gun, but I know for sure that you NEVER aim at a human being....
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 09:26 AM
Oct 2021

... unless you're willing to kill them. Not even an empty gun. Inexcusable.

 

inthewind21

(4,616 posts)
209. I know right
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 05:21 PM
Oct 2021

Those guys on CSI, well they mean to kill others on the set. Clearly, because they point unloaded guns at people all the time. ARREST THEM ALL NOW! INEXCUSABLE. Yeah, see how ridiculous that sounds discussing an accident during the filming of a movie,

Joinfortmill

(20,206 posts)
131. Yes, lots of sympathy for him, but...
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 10:11 AM
Oct 2021

and expert said on Rachel, I believe, that he should have done a final check before firing. Sometimes protocols are the difference between life and death.

BootinUp

(50,980 posts)
132. When these movie accidents happen
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 10:48 AM
Oct 2021

And someone dies… it just really bothers me, especially the gun incidents. It seems impossible to fathom. But it seems clear that safety was not taken seriously by some on this project. It’s too bad they can’t have a do over. That’s why safety needs to be prioritized, that’s why there are laws and regulations and fines. Because this is serious stuff. I have worked in manufacturing chemical industry my whole life and been fortunate to work in environments where safety was prioritized. But even there accidents happen. People lose fingers, are seriously burned, equipment can fall, there are many hazards.
Once I attended a safety meeting and a guest speaker was someone who worked at a chemical plant loading trucks. He was horribly burned in an accident. A very intelligent man who was trying to do his job right. But one day he took a safety shortcut. So he gives talks about the importance of following safety rules now.
I wish the families of the victims and all the other people involved some peace and strength so they can go on with their lives and not be permanently affected.

Deep State Witch

(12,598 posts)
134. The S**t Has Already Started
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 10:55 AM
Oct 2021

The Trump-humpers are having a great laugh at his expense. Exploiting a tragic accident for political gain. Sickos.

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
228. In the search warrant, from the director who was shot.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:39 PM
Oct 2021

Joel Souza, the film director who was hit in the accidental shooting, gave investigators details as he was recovering at Christus St. Vincent Medical Center on Friday.

The shooting happened inside a set church at Bonanza Creek Ranch Thursday afternoon. Souza said the scene involved Baldwin sitting on a church pew and the pulling the prop gun across his body and pointing it directly at the camera.

IbogaProject

(5,639 posts)
140. He should be ejected from SAG
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:33 AM
Oct 2021

He should be ejected from the Screen Actor's Guild, the "armeror" wasn't in the respective union. This is a clear cut case of strike breaking leading to a death. I have zero sympathy for him and he should be shunned like a pariah.

LisaL

(47,358 posts)
142. What union the armorer wasn't in?
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 11:36 AM
Oct 2021

Is there a union for armorers? How do you know she wasn't in a union?

IbogaProject

(5,639 posts)
163. Not sure but there have been issues all over this year
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 06:31 PM
Oct 2021

Last edited Sun Oct 24, 2021, 07:45 PM - Edit history (2)

I'm not sure the specific union, but there have been issues all over this year due to so many productions crowded together trying to do 2 years work done all at once. that is what the recent issues with the behind the camera union has been about.

https://variety.com/2021/film/news/rust-halyna-hutchins-death-alec-baldwin-production-1235096161/

Reports that “Rust” producers allegedly allowed multiple non-union workers to come into the production at some point were also confounding to industry veterans. Multiple sources with decades of production experience confirmed that the only way a union production is authorized to bring in non-union workers is if there are no union employees available for the job. In that scenario, IATSE or the relevant union has a formal vetting process for the non-union employee and has to grant a waiver to the production for the hire, sometimes on a day-to-day basis.


And other reports state that there were many safety and work quality of life issues that had already precepted crew members quitting the production.

Bluethroughu

(7,215 posts)
162. Alec's a living victim bound to this tragedy that took a life, and changed
Sun Oct 24, 2021, 02:30 PM
Oct 2021

the lives of everyones' families.

The person responsible for handing him that gun, after checking its safety must be fully investigated and let the appropriate consequences be given out.

The solution to this...no active firearms on set, add the special affects later, we have the technology to prevent this from ever happening again.



Kaleva

(40,235 posts)
207. Everyone who handles a gun should safety check it.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 05:03 PM
Oct 2021

Your last sentence would be a good solution.

Bluethroughu

(7,215 posts)
212. I agree, but in his defense, prop guns and the dummy or hollow bullets
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 09:47 PM
Oct 2021

Are for the experts to handle on a set, that's their job. How would an actor even know if the props were just that or real bullets?

I don't understand why these guns, bombs or other crazy effects ever have to be near anyone on set, ever again.

Technology has got this.

Kaleva

(40,235 posts)
213. Baldwin the told the revolver was empty. It'd be easy to see if it was or wasn't
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 09:50 PM
Oct 2021

I do agree that it should have been an expert that handed the gun to Baldwin and not an assistant director.

And with modern technology, real working guns aren't needed anymore.

Bluethroughu

(7,215 posts)
214. You are right assistant director shouldn't even handle the gun.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 09:53 PM
Oct 2021

That should be between the expert and actor.

Maybe something will change in the industry because of this, I hope.

Iggo

(49,687 posts)
200. A problem for Alec Baldwin is that it may point back to the executive producer: Alec Baldwin.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 12:35 PM
Oct 2021

That doesn’t change the sad fact that it’s horrible how it went down and it’s a terrible thing to have to live with.

But big picture, the buck may stop at the top.

gldstwmn

(4,575 posts)
236. From KOB4:
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:59 PM
Oct 2021

Meanwhile, a 911 call from the “Rust” shooting reveals there was perhaps more frustration with Halls. A crew member criticized him to the dispatcher.

"And this (expletive) AD that yelled at me at lunch, asking about revisions, this mother (expletive.) (inaudible) He's supposed to check the guns. He's responsible for what happens on the set."

KOB 4 also learned just hours before the accident, several crew members walked off set, saying conditions were not safe.

Over the last four days, KOB 4 has heard from multiple people with experience firing guns on New Mexico movie sets who said live rounds should be nowhere near any prop guns and multiple people should be checking each gun

 

Steelrolled

(2,022 posts)
226. People die probably every day due to workplace accidents
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 10:33 PM
Oct 2021

many of which were preventable. Accidents are investigated, disciplinary actions are taken as appropriate, processes are changed, including better education, and life goes on.

I think that film crews are not so inept that they can't keep real ammunition out of prop guns.

meadowlander

(5,099 posts)
230. Let's say Donald Trump knocked a Diet Coke onto the little red button and started WWIII.
Mon Oct 25, 2021, 11:13 PM
Oct 2021

Do you blame:

Donald Trump for knocking over the Diet Coke
The guy who designed the red button in a way that's vulnerable to Diet Coke
The White House chief of staff who didn't stick to his guns on banning Diet Coke on the Resolute Desk
The secret service agent who didn't catch the Diet Coke before it tipped over
The signals operator who didn't verify that it was a legitimate signal
The general in charge of nuclear protocols for not building in better safeguards
The schlub in the bunker who turns the key without checking the TV news first to confirm something is really going on

They all have some liability. But the primarily culpability doesn't fall on the schlub in the bunker. By the time he fucked up there was already such a massive chain of cascading failures that it's a bit much to pile it all on him because he turned the key.

So yes, in an ideal world Alec Baldwin should have checked that the gun was actually cold. But given the system in place and the number of safeguards that were supposed to be in place to ensure that this situation could never arise in the first place, I can't see that he's the main villain here.

JI7

(93,277 posts)
237. Good people are often filled with guilt even if it was total mistake
Tue Oct 26, 2021, 12:03 AM
Oct 2021

This will probably take some years off of Baldwin's natural life from the emotional hurt and guilt .

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