Did The Crow Reboot Director Rupert Sanders Ban Real Firearms on Set? Here’s What We Know

by

As a long-time fan of The Crow franchise, I can’t help but feel a sense of relief and admiration for Rupert Sanders, the director of this much-anticipated reboot. His unwavering commitment to safety on set is nothing short of inspiring. Having grown up hearing about the tragic incident that occurred during the filming of the original The Crow in 1994, it’s heartening to see Sanders taking such decisive action to prevent any similar accidents from happening again.

In light of escalating gun-related accidents and fatalities, such as the unfortunate incident on the set of Alec Baldwin’s Rust, Rupert Sanders, who has previously directed Snow White and the Huntsman and Ghost in the Shell, is firmly advocating for safety measures. To protect his cast and crew during the production of The Crow reboot, he has decided to prohibit the use of real firearms on set.

In an exclusive interview, Sanders, aged 53, highlighted the potential dangers associated with working within an “industrial setting.” He underscored the significance of prioritizing safety, referencing the unfortunate incidents from the 1994 filming of The Crow as a reminder. “I unequivocally stated that there would be no weapons firing on set,” Sanders explained to Variety. This means that no guns capable of holding live or blank ammunition were present at any time, ensuring that no projectiles could ever be discharged.

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but be drawn back into the gripping tale of The Crow franchise, specifically the fifth installment that delves once more into the haunting legacy of the 1994 film masterfully crafted by Alex Proyas. The chilling event unfolded during a thrilling action sequence where the charismatic Brandon Lee, the legendary Bruce Lee’s son and the movie’s leading man, tragically lost his life due to an unforeseen firearm malfunction. This heart-wrenching incident was observed by around 75 to 100 crew members who, in the heat of the moment, didn’t fully comprehend the gravity of the situation until Lee failed to rise. At just 28 years old, his life was cut tragically short.

Moreover, Sanders brought attention to potential hazards that often occur on movie sets, such as vehicles moving swiftly, acrobatic feats on high wires, and intricate setups with rain machines and bright lights during the night. Emphasizing the importance of safety, he stated, “It can be risky. Safety is crucial,” reiterating the need for stringent safety protocols to avert mishaps and protect everyone working on set.

Despite opting for less conventional methods, the director never wavered on delivering high-quality and convincing action sequences. Instead of using actual weapons, Sanders opted for Airsoft guns and other alternatives like rubber or metal placeholders that couldn’t shoot. These prop guns varied from wooden or plastic replicas to inactive firearms that were no longer functional. The choice was made to ensure the actors’ safety.

As an ardent aficionado, I’ve always been meticulous about every detail in my films, especially when it comes to weaponry. Working hand-in-hand with an armorer and a top-notch special effects crew—whose precision, as Sanders attests, rivals that of the military—I’ve taken great pains to avoid using real firearms on set. To ensure safety during production and maintain the high standards I set for myself, I’ve poured a substantial amount of my resources into strengthening my special effects department.

2024’s The Crow is a fresh interpretation of the series, tailored for today’s youth. It narrates the passionate tale of reincarnated lovers Eric Draven and Shelly Webster, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård and FKA Twigs. Following his own murder, Draven returns to seek vengeance on those responsible for Shelly’s demise.

The Crow premiered in theaters on Friday, August 23, 2024.

Read More

2024-08-24 16:22