Baldwin Critics Documentary Reaction

Director Rory Kennedy stated that Alec Baldwin strongly disliked the documentary about his manslaughter trial.

Kennedy made the comment during a question and answer session at the SCAD Savannah Film Festival on Oct. 27. She described the film as a complex look at the aftermath of the 2021 set accident that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injured director Joel Souza. The project was released worldwide on Oct. 1, 2026, by Abramorama.

The filmmakers began following Baldwin in March 2023, just as the production of Rust resumed and weeks before his initial involuntary manslaughter charge was dropped. In January 2024, a grand jury re-indicted him on the same charge. Kennedy noted that the film explores how Baldwin's desire to reshape his public image influenced his testimony. She argued that he was not always a reliable narrator of his own story. The documentary traces his career and upbringing, linking his Irish Catholic background to his public clashes with the press.

Producing partner Mark Bailey described Baldwin as sincere despite contradictory statements. Bailey pointed to a scene where Baldwin claimed movies were unimportant while his wife Hilaria disagreed. Bailey said Baldwin was under enormous stress during the filming period. Kennedy added that Baldwin lost five Hollywood jobs while the cameras rolled, as producing friends called to fire him. She noted that he raised seven children during this time while reading harsh commentary online.

Kennedy said the film ends with Baldwin's acquittal but acknowledges his ongoing battle for public opinion. She mentioned that Baldwin specifically objected to the inclusion of his 2007 voicemail to his daughter, Ireland, and other episodes where he was not at his best. However, she reported that Baldwin and his inner circle now believe the film helps audiences understand his experience. The documentary premiered at Doc NYC in November 2025.

The film is currently playing on the festival circuit. Kennedy said that after receiving approval from people Baldwin respects, he and those around him feel the work serves its purpose. The project offers a biographical and cultural exposition of the actor's life and legal struggles. It documents his emotional journey from the initial shooting to the final verdict.