After much ado about casting and re-casting, in round three of who will kick-up some dust and dig in his spurs opposite Oscar winner Natalie Portman in her New Mexico western “Jane Got a Gun”, her Star Wars co-star Ewan McGregor has come into focus!
Both are experienced in NM filming as Portman has been here for both “Thor” and “Brothers”, and McGregor starred in “Men Who Stare at Goats” back in and returned with Channing Tatum, Michael Fassbender and Gina Carano for “Haywire”.
As everyone knows all too well nothing is confirmed until all hands are on deck, all stars are on their mark and the director yells, ACTION!
So here’s to a great shoot for all involved, how ever things fall out on this and every AWESOME production rolling right now here in New Mexico!
In 2011 it was announced that Fox ordered 13 episodes of a new documentary series, Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey, slated to air some time this year.
The original series was broadcast on PBS in 1980, the first of its kind, space exploration docu-series based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Pulitzer Prize winning scientist and author Carl Sagan, became the most widely watched series in the history of American public television for ten years running.
MacFarlane told Wired Magazine in the summer of 2012, “I’m dismayed at the rejection of science that’s reemerging in America. There’s nothing out there that glamorizes science the way Cosmos did.”
The year before MacFarlance told the New York Times of his passion for the final frontier, saying, “We’re obsessed with angels and vampires and whatnot when there are many more exciting and very real and much more spectacular things to be excited about, that are right in our own planetary backyard.”
And now the home of America’s first and only commercial spaceport can announce that the ultimate throwback into the future will be based in our own backyard.
Months of top secret preparations ensure that this upcoming odyssey into the earthly explorations of the vast reaches of the universe will be sure to amaze.
New Mexico, here is your first chance to begin vying for your own part of Seth MacFarlane’s version of Carl Sagan’s, Cosomos:
From Lorrie Latham:
Local casting is looking for a 14 mo (more or less) toddler girl to work in a scene on Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey She needs to be just learning to walk and still tottering between walking and not.
This is a paid position and will be a one-day shoot at the Santa Fe Studios. It pays more than standard background pay.
If you know someone with a toddler (must be a girl) please have them email: lorrie@lathamcasting.coms
Keep it right here for more upcoming cast & crew info.!
Posted by Sindicator on March 27, 2013 | Comments Off
NM resident attorney turned author, Jonathan Miller discusses his latest book, Rattlesnake Wedding.
The “Rattlesnake Lawyer” himself will be signing copies of “Rattlesnake Wedding” this Saturday, March 30 at 1 p.m. at Barnes & Noble in Coronado Center.
Find out more about the author and check out all the literary works by Miller at http://rattlesnakelaw.com/.
UPDATE 3/15/12: Newly re-formed House Bill, 641 has emerged at the Legislature in a last ditch effort to salvage the New Mexico Film Industry. Friday evening the House Business and Industry Committee voted to pass the new bill, which mirrors our beloved HB 379 as vetoed by the Governor earlier in the day.
Stay tuned…
#1174 Albuquerque, NM
A film production bill such as this is a win-win for all involved. New Mexico is in a perfect situation both location, crew and talent wise to allow professional production to continue to grow. This State needs all the advantages it can use to bring more production here. Governor by signing this bill you would put more New Mexicans to work and bring in more revenue for big and small businesses.
#1173 Placitas, NM
Please sign HB379. The film industry is good for New Mexico … good for jobs and all the folks who provide services for the productions. Heaven knows we need the jobs.
#1164 Albuquerque, NM
This is really important for the state. If this goes away, its going to make it harder for everything else. We have something special here in NM that other states don’t. Lets keep it that way. Sign the bill.
#1031 Albuquerque, NM
The Feds will be cutting the military, Los Alamos and Sandia Labs. This is an industry to build upon. Personally, I know of out of towners who to come to Albuquerque because of Breaking Bad and it is not for meth! It’s for the beautiful skies and mountains. Please consider signing this bill. Respectfully…
#1048 Albuquerque, NM
Film work bought my home/vehicles, and paid off my student loans
#1078 Albuquerque, NM
tv film and art endeavors are pollution free revenue and job producers in our state and attract tourism- a clean source of income…. WHATS WRONG WITH YOU??????
#941 Albuquerque, NM
I work in the film industry in NM. Let’s do what we can to keep the work coming.
#940 Albuquerque, NM
Excited for more work to come in! I’m ready!
#937 Albuquerque, NM
Dear Governor Martines I have been working in the film industry for the last 6 years and primarily in the state of New Mexico! I was born here my family lives here I love to work here!!! Please don’t let are great industry with high paying jobs leave here becuase it will cause me and several other people like me to relocate as well!!! Thank you
#931 Santa Fe, NM
I have family members whose jobs are strongly tied to the industry and would face financial hardships if the industry is not able to participate in New Mexico.
#928 Santa Fe, NM
As a Santa Fe gallerist, daily I recognize the positive impact & fiscal contribution of New Mexico film & TV production on our state and local levels. Keep the cameras on NM!
#923 Las Cruces, NM
We need this! Its good for the entire state! Please keep film making in the state!
#763 Tijeras, NM
Please sign this petition. It’s the difference between me having a job and being homeless. It may not matter to you but to thousands of your constituents it’s extremely important.
#759 Albuquerque, NM
I truly believe these productions not only add to the state economy, but also serve to keep New Mexico in the public eye as a diverse and valuable location for attracting other outside business interests.
#696 Santa Fe, NM
Film helps keep this ranch a float as a movie location. Agriculture is tuff, film helps
#925 Albuquerque, NM
I’ve had an opportunity to work and contribute to an industry I thought I’d have to leave home to be a part of. Here’s to it’s continued growth.
#749 Tijeras, NM
Do the right thing this time around!
#684 Keep the film industry and work here in New Mexico. Jemez, NM
#681 Thousands of NM employed through movies and TV! Albuquerque, NM
#676 I support the proposed new tax incentives for film and television. Please stand behind this much needed proposal to create good New Mexico jobs. This is a outstanding industry for our state. Thank you for your time. Algodones, NM
#675 House Bill 379 must pass! New Mexico made a brilliant economic decision bringing the film industry here-lets keep it going strong! Albuquerque, NM
#668 New Mexico is perfect for making movies, we should pull in all the outside money we can, into this state! Ruidoso, NM
#665 this good for new mexico and for people of new mexico ojo caliente, NM
#653 Bring back all the film and TV jobs (and more) that were driven away to other states, and work outsourced to our neighboring countries. How can we help heal our state and the US economy when OUR WORKERS WHO PREVIOUSLY WORKED HERE HAVE MOVED TO OTHER COUNTRIES? THEY’RE NO GOOD TO US OVER THERE. I’m sure that makes THEIR economy good, but we need to worry about OURS! Let’s make this state a great one, because right now all the faith I used to have in it is gone. La Union, NM » Read the full post
Posted by Sindicator on March 7, 2013 | Comments Off
Remember Seth MacFarlane’s opening line at this year’s Academy Awards? “And the quest to make Tommy Lee Jones laugh starts now”. The funny man who the whole world was watching in that moment was of course addressing the Oscar winner’s semi-famous scowl at the infamously raucous Golden Globe Awards just weeks before.
Now guess who currently has a film in production right here in New Mexico. I’ll tell you that among the many, BOTH of the above do!
The uproarious Oscar host is hard at work on his first western comedy, A Million Ways to Die in the West right here in The Land of Enchantment, and his co-star is none other than Academy Award winner Charlize Theron, who has taken a star turn in New Mexico before in the heart achingly beautiful film, In the Valley of Elah, with then co-star Tommy Lee Jones.
Also included in the Oscar’s opening was another New Mexico filmer. Though not yet branded an Academy Award winner, Channing Tatum‘s impressive body of work swept not only Charlize Theron off her feet but the rest of the the global award show’s audience as well.
And the New Mexico hits just kept coming throughout the broadcast as nominees, presenters and attendees with New Mexico ties continued to appear.
From Lone Survivor and 2 Guns star Mark Wahlberg presenting, to his Academy Award nominated 2 Guns co-star, Denzel Washington, who many New Mexicans were able to work alongside in both 2 Guns and 2009′s The Book of Eli.
On and on and on til the grand finale of the broadcast when NM’s favorite biology teacher turned drug kingpin, Bryan Cranston joined his fellow best motion picture winners on stage for his performance in Argo.
Independent films like Tommy Lee Jones’ current New Mexico project, The Homesman are quietly at work and even more quietly housing possible co-stars who are no strangers to the most coveted award in motion pictures. It is being reported that Oscar winners Hillary Swank and the one and only Meryl Streep are set to star with Jones in the central NM film.
In southern New Mexico a little thriller called, Enemy Way is getting underway starring Oscar winner Forest Whitaker. Also down south, indie “road film” The Run Away is currently in production.
Academy Award winner Natalie Portman may have skipped the big show this year, but the Thor actress isn’t missing out on another New Mexico project (Brothers, Thor) as she is here for her next film, Jane Got a Gun.
Lastly, when Disney’s Avengers hit the stage at the Oscars this year, you were looking at a whole gaggle of New Mexico Filmers…That’s right, lest you forget the biggest picture of last year was in majority filmed right here in New Mexico!
As we’ve reported many times before, Disney is no stranger to NM, and rumor has it that the first Avenger is likely to hit a soundstage near you for at least part of the current Captain America sequel.
Though all of Oscar’s audience didn’t get to gasp in awe like the Grammy audience was able to, when Johnny Depp showed-up at that awards show, film fans all over the world are bracing for the Depp led Disney movie adaptation of The Lone Ranger.
Last year’s NM production of the major motion picture will roll-out this summer showcasing its New Mexico roots. I can also tell you now, that while the Oscar parties rolled-on last month, rumors of a lock on Depp’s next picture making its way to NM were trickling in to us!
And just today Disney has announced plans for SEVERAL stand alone movies starring Star Wars characters…New Mexico, are you into it!?!
Six of Albuquerque’s top stand-up comedians are prepared to go all out to make you laugh on Friday, March 15th at The Guild Cinema.
Think of six of the funniest guys you know. Now give them each a stage, a microphone, and years of finely honed material performed almost nightly in front of audiences all over the country. With the line-up starring at The Guild Cinema on March 15th, that’s exactly what you’ll have. It takes years and years of hard work and consistency to become a professional stand-up comedian and these men have put in their time, all working towards the noble goal of making a room full of strangers laugh.
“To take an audience through a set is a beautiful thing… You’re providing them an emotional experience, and one of the least understood in human behavior; laughter. It comes from a place deep inside of us and sometimes it is completely inexplicable, but that’s the goal. That’s what we do. We make you laugh.” says comedian and publisher Mike Long.
These are comics who have committed to the lifestyle of a stand-up, sacrificing privacy, personal comfort, and security to go out of their way for a good joke. No topic is too close to the heart and no subject is taboo. The material for their acts is culled from their very lives and the thought processes that make them tick as human beings.
The Guild Cinema provides a perfect backdrop for this performance. This isn’t a bar show, it’s not an unruly open mic, it’s a nice, dark theater with perfect audio and a great stage. It’s the environment that stand-up comedy thrives in. It’s the setting that the art was meant for. This will be a chance to see six professionals performing at the top of their game for your amusement.
Life these days is difficult, and real entertainment is sparse. To be able to take in a live performance that makes you forget about your problems and concerns for an hour and a half, to be immersed in something else; pure, genuine, laughter, can be a blessed escape from reality.
It really is something to get to take a night off, sit down in a comfortable theater and have six trained professionals try to make you laugh. Your enjoyment is their main concern. The fact that you have a good night and a great time is their utmost goal. It’s why they’re there. It’s what motivates them to put in the “blood sweat and tears” that it takes to get to this level in their profession.
Albuquerque has an amazing stand-up comedy scene, and these are the best of the best out of it. It’s a group of individuals that have cut their teeth at local open mics and showcases for years, and then taken their acts on the road to perform in front of varied and sometimes vicious audiences.
Matt Peterson has been producing top notch shows in town for the last five years, including shows at the Guild Cinema for the last year and a half. He has garnered national attention for his starring role in the feature film “The Bigfoot Election”, along with roles on Television’s “Longmire” and “In Plain Sight”.
John Cuellar is one third of the comedy production team “Young Dumb and Full of Comedy” and hosts a weekly open mic at Nexus brewery. He has become a true master at crowd work, bringing each and every audience member personally into his act as he crafts a set that engages the entire room.
Joe Quesada is another third of “Young Dumb and Full of Comedy” who hosts a monthly showcase at Elliot’s Bar and Grill. Joe has created a seemingly endless amount of material drawing from his own insecurities and struggles in life, baring his soul to the audience in search of the perfect bit.
Rusty Rutherford hosts Albuquerque’s longest running comedy contest every month at Terrene Hookah Lounge. His upbeat and energetic performances have been described as “structured insanity” as he jokes, raps, and freestyles his way into a crowd’s heart.
James Morrow has been performing all around Albuquerque and the Southwest for over four years. He has been referred to as a “comic’s comic”, being able to turn even the coldest room inside out with laughter.
Mike Long is a published author who has dedicated his creative efforts towards stand-up comedy for the last three years. His somewhat twisted view of the world and dark sense of humor have generated rave reviews, having audience members say “I didn’t want to laugh at that, but he made me.”
This group has spent many a night together both on and off stage, perfecting their art, honing their craft and embodying the lifestyle of a comedian. They, each in their own unique way, are exceptionally adept at bringing an audience into their minds during their time on stage and generating a laugh that may even surprise the listener.
The show’s host Matt Peterson says “There is nothing in the world like being a comedian. We get to see the world and report it back to you, all in the hopes of laughter! Albuquerque Comedy is alive and well!”
Come out to The Guild Cinema on Friday, March 13th to enjoy a comedy show like no other. Admission is only $10 for this 18 and over show that will begin at 10:30pm. Boys will be Boys, and they’ll make you laugh along with them in the process.
Dr. Helen Jacey, renown British screenwriter, author and story consultant will speak in Santa Fe on February 20 and 21, 2013. Her book The Woman in the Story is considered the international handbook for creating strong female characters. Her two appearances in Santa Fe are made possible by a collaboration of Duchy Parade Films, New Mexico Women in Film, IATSE 480 Filmworkers Union and Santa Fe Community College Film Department.
As a professional screenwriter, Jacey has developed projects for numerous UK, European and US producers, including Gareth Wiley, Harbour Pictures, BBC, UK Film Council and others. She is currently developing several feature film screenplays for producers in the UK and the US, including a screenplay for Santa Fe’s Duchy Parade Films.
Wednesday, February 20, Dr Jacey will present a three hour seminar, ‘Writing the Heroine’s Story’. This intensive workshop for professionals and beginners brings knowledge and inspiration of characterization to new, imaginative levels. Registration opens at 6:00PM. Seminar begins at 6:30PM sharp. Santa Fe Community College, Room # 216 in the West Wing of the main campus. Parking in main SFCC lot; short walk to West Wing. $30 at the door.
Thursday, February 21, Dr Jacey will speak at the Official Kick-Off Event for NM Film & Media Day 2013. Co-hosted by IATSE 480 and NM Women in Film, she will speak on ‘Gender Politics in Film: Finding the Woman’s Voice’. Lecture and reception will take place at 7:00PM at 410-A Old Santa Fe Trail, between Pink Adobe and Rio Chama restaurants. Seating is limited. NMWIF members free. Guests $15 at the door.
More information on the Dr Helen Jacey seminar and lecture: www.NMWIF.com.
Call for submissions for feature film, JANE GOT A GUN. Cowboys and Cowgirls 20 to 40 years old needed for the Director to start selecting this Friday. Send a recent picture and Phone number to robertbaxtercasting@gmail.com
Jane Got a Gun stars NMFilm actress Natalie Portman (Thor, Brothers) and Michael Fassbender who just recently wrapped the NMFilm “Frank”. Both are hot off their co-starring roles in the yet to be titled Terrence Malick film which was shot in Austin, TX last fall.
In Jane Got a Gun, Portman plays the title character – a woman whose outlaw husband returns home shot with eight bullets and barely alive, Jane reluctantly reaches out to an ex-lover (Fassbender) who she hasn’t seen in over ten years to help her defend her farm when the time comes that her husband’s gang eventually tracks him down to finish the job.
In part, in response to some rather scathing reviews (Slate, The New York Post) of her latest novel, “The Feminist and The Cowboy: An Unlikely Love Story” (originally titled, “Learning to Submit”), bestselling New Mexico author Alisa Valdes has blogged a shocking and disturbing sequel to the book which has just recently hit retail shelves.
Today on her official blog titled, “The Diary of Author Alisa Valdes”, she writes in horrific detail just some of the heinous events she said she suffered through at the hands of her once revered “Cowboy”, post completion of the manuscript that he inspired as it was submitted for publication. The lengthy account is a drama of its own, which chronicles not only the lifeline of the novel itself, but provides an inside look at the journey to publication to where it stands today, being sold and promoted, or a lack thereof.
There are so many sad accounts in this real-life saga, from the artist’s struggle in creating an honest to herself account as a memoir for her fans, to the truths of the levels of abuse men and women will suffer at the hands of those they love and profess to love, to the scrutiny and judgment bandied-about when any aspect of one’s life is put forth for public consumption.
Valdes never fails to provide the cold hard details for her fans, whether it be after the fact or against the wishes of her publishers, her truths are on display, often in gut wrenching detail:
“There was the night we argued at my house, and he was going to leave, as he always did, stonewalling and locking me out being his favorite weapons, his silent treatments going on sometimes for weeks on end, the emails finally coming in which he said he was willing to come back as long as I changed a long list of things about myself, and me always caving in…but that night, he was brutal again, when I tried to say I was sorry, when I tried to stop the inevitable stonewalling, he glared, called me a mouthy cunt, told me to get to my side of the bed and not touch him, told me that he couldn’t stand the sight of me, told me that if I really wanted to impress him then I’d be a good girl and just shut the fuck up, and his finger poking me in the chest, and then wagged in my face, telling me that my biggest problem, the reason he would never marry me after all, was that I was a woman who just didn’t know when to shut the fuck up, shut the fuck up, and me saying I would, that I would be quiet, and turning my back to him so he wouldn’t hear me cry, and him feeling the bed shake anyway and yelling at me that I was pathetic, that if I wanted him to stay then I better stop fucking crying, and me running into my closet with my phone to fall in a heap on the floor and text myself so that in the morning I’d remember that this was NOT okay, that this was NOT love, and him pretending the next morning that nothing had happened.”
Not okay, indeed. Valdes goes on to provide a likely sought after look at the “Cowboy” himself, and even includes a brief video of what looks to be an interview she may have conducted with him herself.
Posted by Sindicator on January 6, 2013 | Comments Off
As we reported to you here first, Oscar winning actress Natalie Portman would be headed back to film New Mexico for the upcoming drama, Jane Got a Gun.
This will be the third NM film in recent years for the Thor (2011) and Brothers (2009) actress. The latter co-starring iconic, indie darling, Jake Gyllenhaal.
Jakey’s equally iconic and critically revered, sister/actress Maggie Gyllenhaal is too headed for a repeat visit to NM, following-up her role in New Mexico Film, Crazy Heart back in 2008, Maggie is back NOW to star in, Frank.
Jane Got a Gun will strike-up filming this spring. Downtown Albuquerque is currently bracing for Frank to start rolling this week!!!
Wonder if Natalie will be back to NM yet again to reprise her role as Queen Amidala????
Los Angeles, CA— Arenas Entertainment Founder and CEO Santiago Pozo announced today that the independent film Bless Me, Ultima will be given a limited national release in February 2013. Arenas Entertainment is distributing and marketing the film, which had an extremely successful box office run in regional release earlier this year.
The film, Bless Me, Ultima, is based on the provocative award-winning novel by celebrated author, Rudolfo Anaya. Bless Me, Ultima opened on October 19, 2012 in just five New Mexico theaters. To date the film has grossed more than $325,000 in New Mexico and averaged a robust $16,000+ per screen on its opening weekend, making it the #1 film in the region that weekend. Similarly, the film was successful in its El Paso release in mid-September, averaging $10,000+ per screen on its opening weekend and grossing more than $100,000 since its September 21st debut in that city.
Larry Gleason, Arenas President of Distribution, said, “We are thrilled that audiences have fallen in love with this film and its rich characters and story.” He continued, “We cannot wait to bring Bless Me, Ultima to a wider audience across the country in February.”
“We firmly believe that this wonderful movie, which is based on a book that is celebrated in the American Southwest, can be embraced by the entire country,” said producer Mark Johnson, “The story of Bless Me, Ultima speaks to all of us.”
The film’s executive producer Christy Walton added “I kept and read the book by Rudolfo Anaya for over 25 years, always thinking that it should be shared in film. Now, I am proud to say that it is a wonderful movie as well as a wonderful book.”
“’Bless Me, Ultima’ is a truly special book that has engaged readers for decades with its universal, yet highly personal coming-of-age story,” said producer Sarah DiLeo, “We are honored to be a part of bringing this beloved story to the screen and sharing these richly drawn characters and unique culture with an even wider audience.”
Bless Me, Ultima will debut in more than 200 theaters across the country, including in cities such as Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, Dallas, Phoenix, Houston, Denver, Tucson and San Antonio.
Based on the controversial, first award-winning Chicano novel by acclaimed author Rudolfo Anaya, Bless Me, Ultima is a turbulent coming-of-age story about a young boy, Antonio (Luke Ganalon), growing up in New Mexico during World War II. When a mysterious curandera (healer) named Ultima (Miriam Colon) comes to live with his family, she teaches him about the power of the spiritual world. As their relationship grows, Antonio begins to question his strict upbringing by his parents (Dolores Heredia & Benito Martinez). Through a series of mysterious and at times terrifying events, Antonio must grapple with questions about the nature of divinity and his own destiny.
The film Bless Me, Ultima was written and directed by Carl Franklin (Devil in a Blue Dress), the executive producer is Christy Walton, producers are Mark Johnson, Sarah DiLeo and Jesse B’Franklin. The film is based on the novel by Rudolfo Anaya and stars Miriam Colon, Luke Ganalon, Dolores Heredia, Benito Martinez, Castulo Guerra and Joaquin Cosio.
The initial national release of Bless Me, Ultima will be in the following cities:
California: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, Monterrey, Palm Springs, Fresno, Bakersfield
Arizona: Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma
Texas: Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Harlingen, Austin, Laredo, Odessa, Corpus Christi, Lubbock
Posted by Sindicator on November 21, 2012 | Comments Off
When the backdrop is our glorious New Mexico vistas, the story is the compelling account of real-life heroes in battle, direction by Peter Berg, cast of Hollywood A-listers and actual Military Veterans, movie magic happens…New Mexico style!
Here for your viewing pleasure is a slue of set pics that have come in, from a very special stint that NMFilm “Lone Survivor” cast & crew spent on location at a New Mexico Air Force Base, on and around Veterans Day!
Cast members including Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch, Eric Bana, Ben Foster, Alexander Ludwig and Sammy Sheik have been in New Mexico since late September filming Peter Berg’s adaptation of the book by Marcus Luttrell.
Luttrell (pictured below with NM native, actor Jerry Angelo) literally wrote the book, Lone Survivor based on the 2005 Military Operation known as Operation Red Wings in which, “a four-man Navy SEAL team consisting of Lt. Michael Murphy, and petty officers Danny Dietz, Matthew Axelson and Marcus Luttrell departed for a reconnaissance mission high in the Hindu Kush Mountains near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The team’s target was Ahmad Shah, a local terrorist leader with close ties to Bin Laden who led a group of insurgents referred to as the “Mountain Tigers”. Five days after insertion, Luttrell was the only SEAL to make it out alive.”
In June Luttrell is quoted as saying, “I want to make sure that the movie is true to the book. Most people get their information from movies and TV and don’t read so I want to make sure this movie is as realistic as possible.” – Luttrell to Blackfive.net
“Lone Survivor” is scheduled for release in early 2013…
Posted by Sindicator on September 28, 2012 | Comments Off
BREAKING NEWS: Santa Fe IFF Changes Screening Date for BLESS ME, ULTIMA with Rudolfo Anaya in Attendance Due to Overwhelming Community Response
**All tickets purchased for the original Wednesday Oct. 17 showing will receive entrance to the after party at Zia Diner on Wednesday, October 17th and also have a seat at the premiere on Thursday, October 18th at the Lensic.**
Santa Fe, NM: The Santa Fe Independent Film Festival announces that the screening of BLESS ME, ULTIMA will now be at The Lensic Performing Arts Center on the 2nd day of the fest with Rudolfo Anaya in attendance on Thursday, October 18th to accommodate the overwhelming community response.
Santa Fe IFF and The Lensic are honored that author Rudolfo Anaya will be at the New Mexico premiere of BLESS ME ULTIMA to accept the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival’s American Author Award and to sign his books before the premiere. Luke Ganalon the actor who stars as the young Antonio, and Benito Martinez, who plays Antonio’s father Gabriel, will introduce the film.
Due to the astounding advance ticket sales, Santa Fe IFF has also extended the BLESS ME, ULTIMA events to two days beginning on the 1st day of the Fest, Wednesday, October 17th with a special party hosted by the Zia Diner where owner, restaurateur Beth Koch has created a menu inspired by the recipes from Rudolfo Anaya’s book to celebrate the NM premiere of the movie at 9 p.m. at 326 South Guadalupe Street in the Rail Yard.
The venue and date of the screening of BLESS ME, ULTIMA have been changed from Wednesday, October 17, at 7 p.m. at Warehouse 21 to Thursday, October 18th at 7 p.m. at the Lensic. Tickets for the screening are available now at ticketssantafe.org and the Lensic box office 505.988.1234.
Sponsors of Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
The Santa Fe Independent Film Festival relies on the generous support of sponsors andcorporate partnerships to help fund the Annual Film Festival. A special thanks to this years’ committed sponsors: (media partner) Hutton Broadcasting; (official sponsors) Inn and Spa at Loretto, Bishop’s Lodge Ranch Resort and Spa, Studio X, Hotel Santa Fe, Lensic, Warehouse 21, Lensic Performing Arts Center; (community sponsors) IATSE Local 480, HDNM, ,La Posada de Santa Fe Resort, Garrett’s Desert Inn, San Francisco Bar & Grill, Zia Diner, Cowgirl BBQ, Flying Star, Ore House at Milagro, Santa Fe Studios, Santa Fe Studios, Garson Studios, Albuquerque Studios, Whole Foods; (signature sponsors) Tamalewood, High Desert Digital, Meow Wolf, Fred Ray Lopez of Santa Fe Tinworks; (contributing partners) Santa Fe University of Art and Design, Southwest CARE Center, Quail Run, KUNM, Hinkle Law Firm, Farm to Restaurant New Mexico, Winds of Choice Chiropractic Healing; (festival partners) Ace Hardware, Century Bank, Image Ratio, One Mind Design.
Other partners include: Santa Fe County, Santa Fe Arts Commission, Kindle Project, and the McCune Foundation.
About the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
Santa Fe Independent Film Festival was founded four years ago by local filmmakers to bring the best of independent film to Santa Fe and reignite the historic love affair between Santa Fe and Film. 2012 marks the fourth year of Santa IFF’s all volunteer organization offering a growing festival for independent film, filmmakers, and film lovers. Santa Fe IFF is dedicated to the economic development of our city and New Mexico film. Santa Fe IFF is committed to attracting a growing number of people who make and love films from all over the world to join this year’s Fest to enjoy independent films and the unique charm of Santa Fe.The Fourth Annual Santa Fe Independent Film Festival continues its mission in exhibiting the best of independent film to diverse audiences, creating educational opportunities, and building community partnerships.
The 4th Annual Santa Fe Independent Film takes place October 17 to 21, 2012. For more information contact:
505.349.1414
Info@santafeiff.com
santafeiff.com
facebook.com/santafeindependentfilmfestival
twitter.com/SFIndieFilmFest
###
The Fourth Annual Santa Fe Independent Film Festival takes place October 17 to 21, 2012. For more information contact:
505.349.1414
Info@santafeiff.com
santafeiff.com
facebook.com/santafeindependentfilmfestival
Posted by Sindicator on September 17, 2012 | Comments Off
From her star-making turn in the classic TV sitcom “Laverne & Shirley” to her phenomenal career as a film director and producer, Penny Marshall has had a remarkable life. In “My Mother Was Nuts,” Marshall talks about where she came from and the amazing journey it was.
After graduating from Walton High School, the Bronx New York native put some distance between herself and her parents, fleeing to Albuquerque and the University of New Mexico to major in psychology.
During her junior year she dropped out and married a football-playing classmate, Michael Henry. Their daughter, Tracy—her only child—was born in 1964. Henry stayed in school and Marshall worked as a secretary and taught dance in Albuquerque, New Mexico until they divorced in 1966. Soon after Marshall picked-up once again and headed to California to team-up with her brother Gary Marshall.
The rest, as they say, is history, and it’s all chronicled in her new book.
Today while promoting, “My Mother Was Nuts” on LIVE with Kelly & Michael the actress, director, author gave her turn at University of New Mexico a shout-out, saying, “Go UNM! Beat the Aggies!”
Posted by Sindicator on September 10, 2012 | Comments Off
Santa Fe, NM – Tickets are now on sale for the Fourth Annual Santa Fe Independent Film Festival for the 5 day fest, Wednesday, October 17th through Sunday, October 21st. All Festival passes and day passes can be purchased through the Lensic box office or ticketssantafe.org. Santa Fe Independent Film Festival will feature 80 films over 5 days and nights, host 20 filmmaker forums/workshops, Awards Ceremonies, VIP Events, a Filmmakers’ Brunch and 6 After-parties at the hottest venues in Santa Fe. Full schedule can be seen at Santafeiff.com.
Santa Fe IFF kicks off the festival with the New Mexico premiere of BLESS ME, ULTIMA. based on the iconic novel by beloved New Mexico Author RUDOLFO ANAYA. It closes on Sunday evening, October 21st at The Lensic Performing Arts Center with the New Mexican premiere of best-selling Author JUDY BLUME’s TIGER EYES directed by her son Lawrence Blume. “Shot in state and featuring charismatic performances from both Russell Means and son Tatanka, Lawrence Blume’s TIGER EYES – based on the classic teen novel by his mom Judy Blume – stars “Gossip Girl” WILLA HOLLAND as Davey, the teenager hurled into growing up after her father is murdered and mom relocates her and her younger brother from Atlantic City to Los Alamos, New Mexico.” ( Lauren Wissot Filmmaker Magazine and Santa Fe IFF Director of Programming) Judy and Lawrence will be in attendance and Judy Blume will sign her books after the premiere of TIGER EYES at the Lensic, The screening will be preceded by Santa Fe IFF’s Non-Juried Awards Ceremony hosted by GARY FARMER Santa Fe IFF’s Advisory Board Chair when TIGER EYES star TATANKA MEANS will be awarded the festival’s First Annual Tamalewood Award for his work in New Mexico. Judy and Lawrence Blume will also join Santa Fe IFF’s Screenwriting panel with RON BLOOMBERG (THREE’S COMPANY, ALL IN THE FAMILY) on Saturday, October 20th at 4 p.m. at Warehouse21.
Sponsors of Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
The Santa Fe Independent Film Festival relies on the generous support ofsponsors andcorporate partnerships to help fund the 4th Annual Film Festival. A special thanks to this years committed sponsors: (media partner) Hutton Broadcasting; (official sponsors) Inn and Spa at Loretto,Bishop’s Lodge Ranch Resort and Spa, Studio X, Hotel Santa Fe, Lensic, Warehouse 21; (community sponsors) HDNM, ,La Posada de Santa Fe Resort, Garrett’s Desert Inn, San Francisco Bar & Grill, Zia Diner, Cowgirl BBQ, Flying Star, Ore House at Milagro, Santa Fe Studios, IATSE Local 480, Santa Fe Studios, Garson Studios, Albuquerque Studios, Whole Foods; (signature sponsors) Tamalewood, High Desert Digital, Meow Wolf, Fred Ray Lopez of Santa Fe Tinworks; (contributing partners) Santa Fe University of Art and Design, Southwest CARE Center, Quail Run, KUNM, Hinkle Law Firm, Farm to Restaurant New Mexico, Winds of Choice Chiropractic Healing; (festival partners) Ace Hardware, Century Bank, Image Ratio, One Mind Design.
Other partners include: Santa Fe County, Santa Fe Arts Commission, Kindle Project, and McCune Foundation.
About the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
Santa Fe Independent Film Festival was founded four years ago by local filmmakers to bring the best of independent film to Santa Fe and reignite the historic love affair between Santa Fe and Film. 2012 marks the fourth year of Santa IFF’s all volunteer organization offering a growing festival for independent film, filmmakers and film lovers. Santa Fe IFF is dedicated to the economic development of our city and New Mexico film. Santa Fe IFF is committed to attracting a growing number of people who make and love films from all over the world to join this year’s Fest to enjoy independent films and the unique charm of Santa Fe.The Fourth Annual Santa Fe Independent Film Festival continues its mission in exhibiting the best of independent film to diverse audiences, creating educational opportunities, and building community partnerships.
Posted by Sindicator on August 30, 2012 | Comments Off
The beautiful and talented Natalie Portman is no stranger to NM.
It was here, while she was busy catching the eye of ““Thor”“, that Santa Fean’s caught the starlet out and about. And in northern N.M., Portman delivered a heart wrenching performance along with her equally riveting co-stars, Tobey McGuire and Jake Gyllenhaal in 2009′s “Brothers”.
Now the Oscar winner is set to produce and star in the upcoming Western, “Jane Got a Gun”.
Buzz on the wire is that Michael Fassbender is also in for a leading role in the project. Off the wire, the buzz is the possibility of the film landing in NM for at least part of its early 2013 production.
According to the Hollywood Reporter:
Jane Got a Gun centers on a woman whose outlaw husband returns home riddled with bullet wounds and barely alive. When her husband’s gang eventually tracks him down to finish the job, she is forced to reach out to an ex-lover and ask if he will help defend her farm.
Posted by Sindicator on August 27, 2012 | Comments Off
From the Book that was Banned, Burned and Forbidden, the New Mexico Movie Premiere of Bless Me, Ultima Opens the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival on October 17, 2012.
Santa Fe, NM (August 27, 2012) The Santa Fe Independent Film Festival is thrilled to announce its 2012 festival will open with the New Mexico premiere of Bless Me, Ultima the film based on the beloved classic, “the book that was banned, burned, and forbidden.” Bless Me, Ultima written by treasured New Mexico author Rudolfo Anaya will kick off the fourth year of the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival on October 17th at Warehouse 21 heading up a full festival schedule over 5 days in 4 venues in downtown Santa Fe. Santa Fe IFF runs October 17th to 21st with over 75 film screenings, filmmaker workshops and after-parties. The Opening night party will be held at Zia Diner with a special menu created by local restaurateur Beth Koch based on recipes from Bless Me, Ultima. The Awards Ceremony will be on Saturday October 20th at The Lensic Performing Arts Center. This year, Santa Fe IFF inaugurates its New Mexico Tin Pie Plate Awards created by Fred Ray Lopez of santafetinworks.com to hold their signature Pie Awards homemade by the Executive Director’s Mom.
Rudolfo Anaya’s Bless Me, Ultima is a drama set in New Mexico during WWII, centered on the relationship between a young man and an elderly curandera who helps him contend with the battle between good and evil that rages in his village. Many New Mexicans can remember growing up reading this incredible book, and have long awaited the movie. Bless Me, Ultima is an award-winning classic, however, it has been controversial and has been banned in school curriculum and public libraries, as recently as this year in Arizona. Opening the festival with Bless Me, Ultima represents Santa Fe IFF’s commitment to supporting films made in New Mexico featuring a New Mexican cast and crew. Executive Director Jacques Paisner states, “The mission of Santa Fe IFF is to show that New Mexico is the best place to watch and make films. We are especially excited to present the New Mexico premiere of Bless Me Ultima written here by a beloved New Mexico author and filmed in our state.”
Santa Fe IFF is excited that Southwest CARE Center has come on as a contributing partner to bring the timely critically acclaimed film Call Me Kuchu to the 2012 fest. David Kato, the first openly gay man in Uganda and his fellow activists work tirelessly to defeat a new bill that threatens to make homosexuality punishable by death, while combating vicious persecution in their daily lives.”Racking up awards from the Berlin Film Festival to Toronto’s Hot Docs, and closing this year’s Human Rights Watch Film Festival at NYC’s Film Society of Lincoln Center…Call Me Kuchu… is one of those rare docs that manages to enlighten, uplift and enrage in equal doses.” Lauren Wissot (Santa Fe IFF Director of Programming, Filmmaker Magazine Contributing Editor) Call Me Kuchu will screen at CCA (Center for Contemporary Arts) on Friday, October 19. For info on Santa Fe IFF 2012 festival passes and tickets go to www.santafeiff.com or call 505 349-1414.
Sponsors of Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
The Santa Fe Independent Film Festival program, events and filmmaker brunch rely on the generous support of sponsors and corporate partnerships. A special thanks to this year’s committed sponsors: (media partner) Hutton Broadcasting; (official sponsors) Inn and Spa at Lorretto, Bishop’s Lodge Ranch Resort and Spa, Studio X, Hotel Santa Fe, Lensic Performing Arts Center, Warehouse 21, IATSE Local 480, HDNM, Santa Fe Studios; (community sponsors) La Posada de Santa Fe Resort and Spa, Garrett’s Desert Inn, San Francisco Street Bar & Grill, Zia Diner, Cowgirl BBQ, Flying Star, Ore House at Milagro, Inside Santa Fe, Garson Studios; (signature sponsors) Tamalewood, High Desert Digital, Meow Wolf, Fred Ray Lopez of Santa Fe Tinworks, Whole Foods; (contributing partners) Santa Fe University of Art and Design, Southwest CARE Center, Quail Run, KUNM, Hinkle Law Firm, Farm to Restaurant New Mexico, Winds of Choice Chiropractic Healing; (festival partners) Century Bank, Image Ratio, One Mind Design.
Other supporters include: Santa Fe County, Santa Fe Arts Commission, Kindle Project, and McCune Foundation.
About the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
Santa Fe Independent Film Festival was founded four years ago by local filmmakers to bring the best of independent film to Santa Fe and reignite the historic love affair between Santa Fe and film. 2012 marks the fourth year of Santa IFF’s all volunteer organization offering a growing festival for independent film, filmmakers and film lovers. Santa Fe IFF is dedicated to the economic development of our city and New Mexico film. Santa Fe IFF is committed to attracting a growing number of people who make and love films from all over the world to join this year’s Fest to enjoy independent films and the unique charm of Santa Fe. The Fourth Annual Santa Fe Independent Film Festival continues its mission of exhibiting the best of independent film to diverse audiences, creating educational opportunities, and building community partnerships.
Posted by Sindicator on August 6, 2012 | Comments Off
UPDATE 8/27/2012:A (*240 SEAT CAPACITY) New Mexico Premiere has been scheduled for Oct. 17 at the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival, details here.
After a dust-up surrounding the fully booked El Paso, TX world premiere of the New Mexico inspired, shot and beloved film, Bless Me Ultima, local industry insiders are talking.
Albuquerque Film Office Director, Ann Lerner says, “I believe they (the producers) were looking for an unbiased audience reaction to their movie – with an audience that was probably not so familiar with the story of Bless Me Ultima as all of us New Mexicans are. The story is quite dear to our hearts after all!”
Local crew and actors who worked on the production have been widely disappointed along with rabid fans of the literary work (by Albuquerque resident and iconic author Rudolfo Anaya), on which the movie is based, to learn that there is no local screening currently scheduled.
A rep for one of the production companies behind the movie, Monkey Tree Films, has assured locals that a New Mexico premiere is in the works.
State Film Office Director Nick Manianatis confirms to OHI, “We’ve been working with the producers in planning a cast and crew screening in NM – more to come.”
While local talent awaits their time to screen this passion project, Anaya himself has had a private viewing the film. The author had this to say to La Bloga:
The movie is excellent, it captures the story and characters. Every single person attending the screening gave it fantastic, positive reviews.
I am positive la gente is going to love the movie. Like my friend John Nichols said, a novel becomes a short story when turned into a movie. Don’t expect to see the full novel on screen. Everyone knows that.
Carl Franklin did a great job with the story and bringing characters together as familia. Except for Miriam Colón, the cast are actors that don’t have big celebrity names. I hope they do after their roles in the movie. Everyone did excellent work.
Carl Franklin, the director, did talk to me and asked me questions, but the screenplay is his work. I approved his work. Some themes in the novel are left out, but the story works.
Carl Franklin
I met the director several times here at our home. I was invited to play a role in the movie and attend all shooting events, but I stayed home. My feeling was to let them do their work. I don’t make movies.
I met all the actors at the cast party. They had only positive things to say of the process. Miriam Colón visited me here at our home. She is lovely, a perfect Ultima. Her face shines in the movie, so does Luke (Ganalon) who plays Antonio.
…the people will love it. Will there be critics? Of course. All art is criticized if only by responding to it. Let the people enjoy and judge. I feel confident the movie will be around in 50 years.
Posted by Sindicator on June 30, 2012 | Comments Off
UPDATE 07/2/12: It’s officially a wrap on NM’s latest hit television production.
Among the stars, producers, staff, crew & guests; Longmire creator, best selling author, Craig Johnson was on hand for the sunset party in Santa Fe last night!
Deadline Hollywood broke the exciting news yesterday that the number one new show on cable television has been renewed for a second season.
Not the least of the breakthrough performances from the stars of the show, is New Mexico’s lead role standing-in for Wyoming, and this NM bloggette can confirm exclusively that Longmire WILL return to its New Mexico roots to shoot its sophomore season in the Spring of 2013.
I can also report that the series is set to wrap first full season production in Santa Fe this weekend.
Longmire airs Sunday nights on A&E through August 5.
Congratulations and continued success to all involved!
Posted by Sindicator on April 30, 2012 | Comments Off
New Mexico stands-in for WYO in this highly anticipated drama series, starring the incomparable Robert Taylor as title character/badass Western Sheriff, Walt Longmire.
The series, as we’ve long been following for you here(click & scroll) shoots in Santa Fe and surrounding areas.
Via Press Release:
A&E Network will premiere the new original scripted drama series, “Longmire” on Sunday, June 3 at 10 PM ET/PT immediately following the third season premiere of the returning hit drama “The Glades” at 9 PM ET/PT.
“Longmire,” a contemporary crime thriller set in Big Sky country, is based on the Walt Longmire Mystery novels by best-selling author Craig Johnson. The series stars Australian actor Robert Taylor (The Matrix) as Walt Longmire, the charismatic, dedicated and unflappable sheriff of Absaroka County, Wyoming,along with Katee Sackhoff (“Battlestar Galactica”), Lou Diamond Phillips (“Numb3rs”), Bailey Chase (“Damages”), Cassidy Freeman (“Smallville”) and newcomer Adam Bartley. The premiere season will feature ten one-hour episodes.
Widowed only a year, Longmire is a man in psychic repair who buries his pain behind a brave face and dry wit. Struggling since his wife’s death and at the urging of his daughter, Cady (Freeman), Longmire knows that the time has come to turn his life around. With the help of Vic (Sackhoff), a female deputy new to the department, he becomes reinvigorated about his job and committed to running for re-election. When Branch (Chase), an ambitious, young deputy decides to run against him for sheriff, Longmire feels betrayed but remains steadfast in his dedication to the community. Worn, but not worn out, Longmire often turns to close friend and confidant Henry Standing Bear (Phillips) for support as he sets out to rebuild both his personal and professional lives, one step at a time.
