NMFO Announces Psychological Thriller "Babybacks" Completes Filming

Michelle Lujan Grisham

Governor

Rob Black

Cabinet Secretary

Steve Graham

Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 18, 2025

Contact: Dolores Martinez

dolores.martinez@nmfilm.com

Psychological thriller “Babybacks" wraps production in New Mexico

Santa Fe, NM — A suspenseful independent feature film has concluded production in and around Lamy, New Mexico, showcasing the state's incredible versatility for storytelling.

An impressive cast and crew bring this psychological thriller to life. Directed by Geno Marx (“Don't Look Now”), produced by Marx, Tara Tovarek ("Kill Me Again”), Derik Pritchard (“Love Lies Bleeding”) and executive produced by Rebecca S. Meadows (“Don’t Look Now”) and Christine S. Freer (“Invasion”), this film stars Viridiana Marquez ("Chicago Fire"), Ryan Rathbun ("Unwanted True Mate"), Melissa Chambers (“OPUS"), Peter Lucas ("Ray Donovan"), and Ray Acevedo (“A Reservation”).

“This project is a great example of how our state provides a cinematic canvas for diverse and thought-provoking narratives, while creating valuable opportunities for our homegrown talent to shine,” said Steve Graham , director of the New Mexico Film Office.

The story follows Zoe and Mateo, two young lovers on a desperate journey, who seek refuge with a seemingly migrant-friendly couple. But what begins as a safe harbor soon unravels into a terrifying fight for survival as their sanctuary transforms into an inescapable nightmare of psychological and physical horror.

“In 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to work on my first major production in New Mexico, a socially conscious TV pilot titled ‘Don’t Look Now,’ which proudly featured more than a dozen blind and low-vision actors,” Marx stated. “The outpouring of support from the local cast, crew, and the wider New Mexico film community was truly inspiring. As I began developing my next project, a suspense thriller film with a predominantly Hispanic cast that once again delves into often-overlooked societal themes, it was clear to me that New Mexico was the place to bring it to life.”

The production boosts the local film community, employing approximately 50 New Mexico crew members and around 35 local principal and background talent.

For more information, contact babybacks.film@gmail.com

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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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To learn more, visit nmfilm.com .

The New Mexico Film Office

1100 S. St. Francis Drive, Suite 1242

Santa Fe, NM 87505

(505) 476-5600

info@nmfilm.com

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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