Find out where in New Mexico 'She Rides Shotgun' was filmed

Growing up in London, Nick Rowland always wanted to travel the world creating art.

As a filmmaker, some of his favorite films have New Mexico ties.

When he got an opportunity to bring a project to the state — it was a no-brainer.

“New Mexico has a mythic quality to it,” Rowland says. “I arrived in Albuquerque directly from London and got to work. While I was there, I was in awe because so many of my favorite movies were filmed there. New Mexico has this cinematic history. It didn’t take me long to get started.”

Rowland is at the helm of the independent film, “She Rides Shotgun.” The film was released in theaters Aug. 1 and is currently available on digital platforms for rental or purchase.

According to Lionsgate, “She Rides Shotgun” tells the story of Nate, played by Taron Egerton, who, after years in prison, has made some dangerous enemies, including the powerful criminal gang he worked for on the inside.

Desperate for a fresh start, Nate cuts ties with his old crew upon his release from prison, but the gang retaliates by putting a hit on his family.

Nate picks up Polly, his shy 11-year-old daughter, played by Ana Sophia Heger, who he hardly knows and goes on the run to keep her out of harm’s way.

As they attempt to stay off the radar, it becomes clear that their enemies are relentless and won’t give up easily.

Nate teaches Polly how to survive and watches her transform from a timid little girl into a force to be reckoned with.

According to the New Mexico Film Office, the production filmed in and around Albuquerque and Zia Pueblo.

The production employed over 400 New Mexicans: 62 crew members, 20 principal actors and 255 background talent, according to the N.M. Film Office.

The film also stars Rob Yang, John Carroll Lynch, Odessa A’zion and David Lyons.

“She Rides Shotgun” is based on the 2017 novel of the same name by Jordan Harper.

Rowland says he was moved by the story and characters.

“A lot of scripts are very well written and yet you don’t walk away feeling moved,” he says. “I’m dyslexic and I read the script completely in one read. I am attracted to stories that have tenderness. I love vulnerability contrasting with heart as much as danger and thrills. This film feels like a modern Western.”

Rowland says in a lot of ways “She Rides Shotgun” tells a simple story.

“You need to really care about the moments,” he says. “That’s the beauty of storytelling. It allows the space to really invest and care.”

Rowland and his team had 25 days to make the film.

He says everyone brought the right attitude, which makes the film hit on all cylinders.

“I wanted the cast to explore their characters to the fullest,” he says. “They tried things out on set and never felt foolish for it. This film required the cast to be up to playing and being spontaneous at times. I had so much fun on set, I’m already in talks to bring more film projects to the state.”

Filmmaker Nick Rowland films 'She Rides Shotgun' in Albuquerque, Zia Pueblo