ENTERTAINMENT

New Mexico: The New Hollywood Hotspot

New Mexico, USAThu May 15 2025
New Mexico has been a go-to spot for filmmakers for quite some time. It has been a popular destination for filmmakers for a while, but it's really taken off in recent years. The state's varied landscapes and architecture make it a great stand-in for many different locations. This means productions can save money while still getting the look they want. The state's tax incentives are a big draw. Productions can earn up to 45% in tax breaks, depending on where and how they film. The state is always looking for ways to improve. They want to attract more productions and expand their digital media sector. They're also focused on innovation and collaboration between tech experts and productions. This could help both fields grow and work together even more. The tax incentives cover a wide range of productions, from traditional film and TV to video games and commercials. More work means more growth for the state's industry. New Mexico has been the setting for some big-name productions lately. "Eddington, " starring Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone, was filmed there. The Duffer brothers also wrapped up "The Boroughs" in the state. Other recent projects include "Opus, " "The Cleaning Lady, " "Ransom Canyon, " and "Duster. " Clay Peres, a New Mexico-based location manager, has seen the crew base grow and improve over the years. He notes that the state's short travel times and low cost of living are big pluses for productions. The New Mexico Media Arts Collective is working to educate and train crew members. They offer a four-course program that covers everything from CPR to firearms safety. Their goal is to reinforce the industry with a future-ready foundation. They want to create opportunities for people to participate in the industry, even as it changes. The collective also aims to collaborate with union partners to create work and future-proof the industry. Cinelease Studios-Albuquerque has seen a lot of changes recently. They've renovated the studio, improved safety and ease of use, and even opened a new entrance. Despite an industry slowdown, the studio is fully occupied. They're even turning away productions and planning to expand. The tax incentives are a big draw, but they're not the only reason productions stay. The state has put a lot of effort into developing its crew base, and it's paying off. Plus, the proximity to Los Angeles makes it easy to get equipment, personnel, and talent. New Mexico's unique landscapes have doubled for everything from Philadelphia to Mars. Every major studio and many independent production companies have shot there. The film partner program has helped keep New Mexico on the map. They have the infrastructure, the crew, and the locations. They're ready for business. The state's varied landscapes and architecture make it a great stand-in for many different locations. This means productions can save money while still getting the look they want. The state's tax incentives are a big draw. Productions can earn up to 45% in tax breaks, depending on where and how they film.

questions

    How do the continuous improvements and innovations in New Mexico's film industry programs benefit both the state and the productions?
    How does New Mexico's tax incentive program compare to those offered by other states in terms of attracting productions?
    In what ways have the crew base and facilities in New Mexico improved over the years to support the film industry?

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