Extras should never be taken lightly, or they might up and serve you with a lawsuit. Mia Goth is now facing the same fate. James Hunter, an extra from MaxXxine claims that she hit him in the head while filming. He plays the role of “Dead Parishioner,” and was made to lie down on the ground with fake blood on him. According to the script, Goth was supposed to “run past him,” and sometimes step over him, look down at him,” and continue running. Her hitting Hunter on the head was not a scripted action, and she also “nearly stepped” on Hunter. Goth was also reportedly warned about her actions before she hit Hunter.
The incident happened on the second take of the shot, and Hunter reportedly informed the second Assistant director about it. Goth is also claimed to have “taunted, mocked, and belittled” him later on. No medical assistance was provided to him on the set, as he complained of a headache and stiff neck. Hunter claims his pain was so severe that he had trouble driving home, he had to stop twice on the way. A doctor later diagnosed him with a concussion.
Hunter also details harsh conditions on set, as he had to lie down several hours playing dead. He also had to deal with “ants and mosquitoes” in this ordeal. The long hours caused the fake blood to dry up and stick to his body, causing more pain.
Hunter’s suit accuses Goth of battery, and A24, Ti West (director of MaxXxine) for wrongful termination alongside Goth. West allegedly instructed that filming be continued, and hence the refusal of medical care. Moreover, Hunter’s schedule was also abruptly cut short by the production, and was instructed not to continue by his casting agency.
MaxXxine is expected to release sometime later this year, as the final installment to the X series. The horror franchise enjoys great critical acclaim, and is expected to end big. Goth also serves as producer for the last film. Hunter’s suit is likely going to be a hurdle in terms of the movie’s promotion.
The lawsuit shows the treatment of junior talent on sets, and isn’t the first time for an incident like this. In 2021, Alec Baldwin mistakenly shot and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the sets of Rust. Since the news blew up, Rust is still yet to be released.