At an event in the State Legislature, the Santa Fe Film Festival announced that its February 2027 season will show movies and produce events at over a dozen independent movie theaters across the state. It means that New Mexicans can see the most innovative, creative and powerful movies from around the world in their own town.
“We are so excited to create this festival anchored in Santa Fe but to be experienced across the state, from Santa Fe to Silver City, Tucumcari to Taos, Albuquerque to Artesia,” said newly appointed executive director Frank O’Mahony. “Filmmaker submissions start on Thursday and, based on our experience from previous festivals, we are expecting movies from cultures and perspectives around the world. Our team of screeners will be judging the best of the best over the coming year, and creating an unbeatable program for independent movie theaters.”
The Festival recognizes the vital part that independent cinemas play in their local communities. They tend to be open late, attracting customers who will often add trips to local breweries, restaurants and coffee shops to their nights out. In addition to providing employment, local theaters act as a focal point for residents to meet, socialize, and bond, often serving as a community space for events, live performances, or as a “third place” outside of home and work.
According to the Independent Theater Owners Coalition, “Small business and nonprofit cinemas are not just entertainment hubs that drive local economies, they’re vital cultural beacons that bring people together by offering a window to the wider world and fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience. From rural towns to urban centers, Coalition members are deeply rooted in the communities they serve. In fact, hundreds of independent movie theatres offer the only cinematic experience for miles in small towns across the country.”
“We want to encourage movies from around the world, but we are very keen to promote movies made in New Mexico,” added O’Mahony. “We have a vibrant, creative film community in the state, and a growing number of film education programs to support the industry. To spotlight the work produced here we are encouraging submissions from independent productions and school programs alike. I would hope that we can tap into that rich vein to develop a stream of New Mexico-only movies alongside international entries.”
To submit a movie for consideration, visit https://santafefilmfestival.com/index/submit/
