NMFO Announces 828 Productions feature �Protector� filming in Las Cruces
Michelle Lujan Grisham
Governor
Rob Black
Cabinet Secretary-Designate
Steve Graham
Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 5, 2025
Contact: Dolores Martinez
dolores.martinez@nmfilm.com
828 Productions films action-packed thriller “Protector” in Las Cruces
Las Cruces, NM — The New Mexico Film Office announced today that the feature film, "Protector," is filming in Las Cruces through February.
“Film Las Cruces is happy to have ‘Protector’ filming throughout our city,” Andrew Jara, Film Las Cruces Film Liaison, stated. “It's a great project that fully utilizes our local crew, our unique locations, and great year-round weather.”
A former military mother, played by the incredible Milla Jovovich ("The Fifth Element"), returns home seeking peace and a fresh start with her young daughter. But when a ruthless human trafficking syndicate shatters their world, she must unleash her lethal skills to protect her family and bring the criminals to justice. "Protector" promises to be a gripping tale of courage and resilience set against the stunning backdrop of southern New Mexico.
Written by Bong Seob Mun, directed by the acclaimed Adrian Grunberg ("Rambo: Last Blood"), and produced by a powerhouse team including George Furla ("2 Guns"), Kenneth Kim ("Memories of Darkness"), Ceasar Richbow (“Wrong Place”), Todd Lundbohm (“Eddington”), Hosung Pak (“The Ladies Room”), Arianne Fraser (“Land of Bad”), and Mark Fasano (“Land of Bad”). With Matthew Modine ("Stranger Things") also joining the cast.
The production is part of New Mexico’s film partner program with 828 Productions, which is bringing more film opportunities and jobs to New Mexico. This means more local talent shining behind the scenes and on screen. The project is employing approximately 295 New Mexicans, including 70 crew members and 225 background actors.
"'Protector' is a great example of how New Mexico's film incentives and strategic partnerships are attracting major productions to our state," Steve Graham, Director of the New Mexico Film Office, said. "Our competitive tax credit, boosted by a 10% uplift for filming in locations like Las Cruces, combined with our collaboration with our film partners, makes New Mexico an irresistible destination for filmmakers seeking diverse locations, a skilled workforce, and a supportive film ecosystem."
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The New Mexico Film Office (NMFO), a division of the Economic Development Department, works to ensure the longevity and progress of New Mexico’s film incentive, grow the film, television, and digital media industry, and expand entertainment economic opportunities for New Mexico businesses and residents.
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A division of the New Mexico Economic Development Department
The Economic Development Department's Mission is to improve the lives of New Mexico families by increasing economic opportunities and providing a place for businesses to thrive.
New Mexico Economic Development Department | 1100 South St. Francis Dr Joseph M. Montoya Building | Santa Fe, NM 87505-4147 US
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