The Hollywood Insider's Guide to Santa Fe: Where the Desert Meets the Silver Screen
As I stepped off the plane in Santa Fe, New Mexico, I couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu. The adobe architecture, the turquoise jewelry, and the warm desert air all seemed familiar – like I was walking onto the set of a classic Western film. And that's exactly what this city has become: a favorite haunt for Hollywood filmmakers looking to capture the essence of the Wild West.
I'm not alone in my fascination with Santa Fe. Robert Redford once said, "Going to Santa Fe is like going to Greece. It's not that special compared to other areas." But he was wrong – or at least, he was only half-right. While it may not be as flashy as some of the more popular film destinations, Santa Fe has a unique charm that draws in filmmakers and audiences alike.
So what makes this city so special? For starters, its stunning natural beauty is unmatched. The desert-to-mountain landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful, with towering adobe buildings and red rock formations providing a dramatic backdrop for any production. And then there's the authentic Western feel – from the dusty streets to the cowboy boots and Stetsons, Santa Fe has all the makings of a classic Western town.
But it's not just about looks; Santa Fe also offers some serious practical advantages for filmmakers. The state's early adoption of production tax incentives has made it an attractive destination for big-budget productions, with many studios taking advantage of the generous rebates and credits on offer. And with its relatively low cost of living and doing business, Santa Fe is becoming a go-to location for indie filmmakers looking to stretch their budgets.
One person who's been instrumental in putting Santa Fe on the map is George R.R. Martin, author of the hit HBO series Game of Thrones. His non-profit Stagecoach Foundation is breaking ground this September on a city backlot that doubles as a filmmaking training program – a move that's set to put even more emphasis on Santa Fe's already-thriving film industry.
But it's not just about the infrastructure; Santa Fe also has a thriving arts scene, with a rich cultural heritage that's waiting to be tapped by filmmakers. From the city's famous International Folk Art Market to its vibrant Native American art scene, there's no shortage of inspiration for creatives looking to capture the essence of this unique city.
As I spoke with local filmmakers and industry insiders, it became clear that Santa Fe is more than just a film location – it's a community. From the small-town feel of the city's historic downtown area to the warm hospitality of its residents, there's a sense of camaraderie among those who call this place home.
Take Emilio Estevez, for example, who's been scouting locations for his upcoming Western epic Young Guns 3: Dead or Alive. "Santa Fe has a special energy," he says. "It's like the whole city is one big set – and everyone's happy to be part of it."
As I left Santa Fe, I couldn't help but feel that this city is on the cusp of something big. With its stunning landscapes, authentic Western charm, and thriving arts scene, it's no wonder that Hollywood is taking notice. So if you're a filmmaker looking for a unique location with a small-town feel, or just someone who loves the Wild West, Santa Fe is definitely worth a visit.
The Numbers:
23-acre Aspect Media Village, the largest film studio in Northern New Mexico
$10 million investment from George R.R. Martin's Stagecoach Foundation
20% tax credit for productions shooting in New Mexico
The Verdict: Santa Fe may not be as flashy as some of the more popular film destinations, but it's got a unique charm that draws in filmmakers and audiences alike. With its stunning natural beauty, authentic Western feel, and thriving arts scene, this city is on the cusp of something big – and we can't wait to see what's next.
*Based on reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*
