During filming, Brandon Lee was tragically shot.
The topic of the accident during the filming of the western "Rust" has been the subject of many conversations. However, a similar incident occurred 30 years ago while filming "The Crow". This tragic event involving the actor Brandon Lee is still remembered today.
On May 13, 1994, "The Crow" was released in US theaters. The comic adaptation had already gained notoriety due to the unfortunate event that occurred during filming. While on set, the lead actor, Brandon Lee, was fatally shot by a gun accidentally fired by his colleague Michael Massee.
The promising young star, son of martial arts legend Bruce Lee, who also passed away prematurely, was only 28 years old when he died. The film "The Crow" is dedicated to him and his fiancée Eliza Hutton, whom he planned to marry after filming.
Jeff Most, producer of the film, recounts the making of the cult film in an interview with "The Guardian," released in Germany on July 28, 1994. He remember how Brandon Lee waved to him just before his death, as if he wanted to say goodbye forever.
"Friendly and Selfless"
Most formed a close bond with his star during production. He described the actor as "generous and caring," someone who would be wished for as a best friend by anyone in the world. Most praised Lee's human qualities, referring to him as "all the wonderful qualities of a human being." Following his opinion, Brandon Lee displayed "smart and intuitive" characteristics.
Most also shared his thoughts from a professional standpoint. Lee would rise at 5:30 every morning and immerse himself in training without eating. Since his character was a rock star, he demanded to learn to play the guitar. "You couldn't ask him to do more things, but he soaked it all up like a sponge," said Most.
The accident on set was a shock to Most. At first, he believed that the bullet had been caught by Lee's bulletproof vest. However, upon learning that Lee had not been wearing one, his heart broke. The death of Brandon Lee following the accident enforced stricter regulations for the use of firearms during filming. Although, decades later, it seems these rules have been forgotten. A gun was discharged from Alec Baldwin's pistol during the filming of "Rust" in 2021, killing camerawoman Halyna Hutchins at the age of 42.
"Hutchins Was a Friend"
The similarities between the two accidents were not unnoticed in the press. For Most, who had a friendship with Hutchins, the incident in "Rust" brought back memories of his experience.
"The Crow" became a cult favorite for more reasons than the unfortunate circumstances of its production. The soundtrack showcased the grunge band Stone Temple Pilots, as well as huge names in the alternative rock scene, such as Rage Against the Machine, Nine Inch Nails, and Helmet.
With its dark atmosphere, the film was widely acclaimed as one of the best comic book adaptations. Based on James O'Barr's original story, "The Crow" tells the story of rock musician Eric Draven. He and his fiancée are murdered before their upcoming wedding - a dismaying resemblance to the fate of Brandon Lee. Eric's spirit is resurrected by a crow and returns to take vengeance on his killers.
A remake of "The Crow" is currently in development. Bill Skarsgård, known for playing the "It" horror clown, will take on the role of the avenger. His murdered partner is played by musician FKA Twigs. The trailer for the new edition is less gothic than the original. The world it portrays is much brighter and more realistic. "The Crow" is scheduled for release in US cinemas on August 23, 2024, with a German release date of September 12, 2024.
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Brandon Lee's tragic death during the filming of "The Crow" led to a surge in interest for the comic book adaptation's movie release. Despite the sad circumstances, the film became a cult favorite, cited for its dark atmosphere and notable soundtrack.
Many comic book adaptations have reached the big screen, with "The Crow" being remembered as one of the best due to its gripping story and Lee's exceptional performance.
Source: www.ntv.de
