Copyright © 2020 Albuquerque Journal
Hundreds of films or TV projects have been filmed in New Mexico since “Indian Day School” was captured on celluloid at Isleta Indian School in 1898.
With social distancing orders in place, the New Mexico Film Office is stepping in to help New Mexicans ride out the time at home.
The film office started a daily recommendation of a film or TV production that was filmed in the state. The info is released on its Facebook page every morning.
“These are films that are available for rent or, primarily, streaming,” said Carrie Wells, Film Office deputy director. “During this time of social distancing, this is a way to showcase the productions that call New Mexico home. Each … has captured the state in a different way.”
The campaign started Monday.
The first film to watch was “Godless,” a seven-part limited series released in 2017. Locations for the Emmy-winning production included Galisteo and Santa Fe.
The next film suggestion is 2000’s “Jericho,” starring Mark Valley and Leon Coffee. Locations for that film include the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and Chama.
On Wednesday, the movie pick was “John Carpenter’s Ghosts of Mars,” which was released in 2001. The film stars Natasha Henstridge, Ice Cube, Jason Statham and Pam Grier. Production took place on Zia Pueblo, and in White Mesa, San Ysidro and Rio Rancho.
Wells is keeping up one suggested film per day via the film office’s social media platforms.
“My plan is to keep the posts coming with ideas for New Mexicans to watch,” she said. “In New Mexico, we have a long history of film production. There are plenty of films you can watch for the first time, or re-watch one of your favorites.”
