New Mexico film industry thriving after height of pandemic

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.- The New Mexico film industry is thriving.

“Film production is happening, it’s thriving, and it’s still growing at a really exciting rate here in New Mexico,” said Amber Dodson, director of the New Mexico Film Office.

Right now, there are 22 productions taking place in New Mexico. Nearly 50 productions resumed in September.

Dodson said New Mexico had a record-breaking year in fiscal year 2019, hitting more than $525 million in spending.

She said even with the toll the pandemic took, the industry is rebounding. She said it’s on track to have another record-breaking year.

“Honestly, I think Hollywood, and when I say Hollywood, I mean decision-makers across the world in this industry, have discovered New Mexico, have fallen in love with New Mexico because we have assets you just can’t get anywhere else,” said Dodson.

Dodson said COVID-safe protocols in New Mexico have actually helped the industry.

“Us being incredibly cautious and putting the health of New Mexicans at the forefront with COVID absolutely has paid off," she said. "Hollywood wants to work in safe places. That’s actually why we’ve seen a huge increase in production spend here."

Being in high demand means other facets of the industry are rounding as well. They’re also announcing a production accounting training course. They’re partnering with CNM ingenuity, for people with book-keeping experience.

“The participants that finish the course will be eligible for an interview with Netflix for a job on a production.”

Click here for more information.