The New Mexico Film & Media Industry Conference was supposed to take place this weekend in Santa Fe, but “out of respect for other concurrent events and due to the tremendous amount of productions currently occurring in the state,” the dates have been changed. The event will now take place Oct. 29-31 at the Isleta Resort and Casino. The conference is seen as an opportunity for filmmakers, producers, accountants, studios, vendors, crew, actors and emerging media innovators to learn about state resources and other realities of the industry. Presentations, film screenings, networking events and discussions cover topics that touch on all aspects of the film, television and media biz here in New Mexico. A full schedule of this year’s events is up now at nmfilm.com. Attendee registration is also up. Full conference registration will run you $45 or $30 for one day only or $10 for students with valid IDs. Vendor and sponsorship opportunities are still available.
Reel World: Abe Screens A Movie Abe Screens A Movie
Abe Makes a Movie, a locally shot feature-length comedy, is finally getting its world-premiere screening. Sponsored by the Albuquerque Film Office, the screening will take place Friday, July 24, from 7:30 to 9:30pm at KiMo Theatre (423 Central NW). The film stars Matt Peterson, Lauren Myers, Tim Maloney and Alaina Warren Zachary. It was written by Ryan Turri and Matt Peterson and directed by Ryan Turri (The Bigfoot Election). The film’s self-mocking script centers on a recently dumped, underachieving wannabe filmmaker who assembles a ragtag crew of offbeat characters to make a film for a local film festival in an effort to win his girlfriend back. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased in advance through holdmyticket.com. Cast and crew will, of course, be in attendance. If you can’t make it on Friday, the film will travel to Santa Fe’s Violet Crown Theater on Sunday, July 26. For more info, including trailers, go to abemakesamovie.com.
Reel World: Fundraiser Fun Fundraiser Fun
This Sunday, July 26, the New Mexico Film Foundation is holding its Summer Soiree Fundraiser. NMFF believes “creative New Mexico filmmakers should have the opportunity to tell their stories through film and digital media.” This fundraiser will help out with the nonprofit’s operating costs as well as a host of filmmaking grants the group is offering—from development money to travel stipends for film festivals. Food will be provided by Eloisa Restaurant, Outback Steakhouse, Ragaa Restaurant, Swiss Bistro and Bakery, Cocopelli Chocolatiers and Casa Nova Catering. There will be tastings of Silver Coin Tequila and live music from Felicia Ford. Raffle items include cooking lessons at your home with Chef Paddy Rawal, a private screening of a local short film, a case of tequila, autographed books from George R.R. Martin, a silk scarf from “Project Runway” runner-up Patricia Michaels and more. The event will take place from 6 to 8pm at the Drury Plaza Hotel (828 Paseo De Peralta) in Santa Fe. Tickets are $50 apiece and can be purchased in advance through nmfilmfoundation.org.
