NMFO Announces Road Drama Wraps Filming
Michelle Lujan Grisham
Governor
Rob Black
Cabinet Secretary
Steve Graham
Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 28, 2026
Contact: Dolores Martinez
dolores.martinez@nmfilm.com
Road drama wraps filming across rural New Mexico
Film employs more than 100 New Mexicans
Santa Fe, NM — The feature film, “ Love Meets in the Sunshine, ” wrapped principal photography in Socorro, Truth or Consequences, and Magdalena in November, utilizing New Mexico’s 10% Rural Uplift tax credit to direct investment in rural communities.
The film is directed by Christian Guiton and stars James Franco and Nick Antonyan . It follows a despairing man whose failed suicide attempt lands him in a mental health facility, where he is reluctantly paired with an eccentric, terminally ill roommate who is eager to live. The two embark on a desperate cross-country road trip — one searching for a cure, the other seeking a legal way to die. Their unlikely bond forces them to confront their deepest pains, ultimately proving that hope and meaning can emerge even in the most chaotic places.
The wide, lonely landscapes of southern and central New Mexico serve as the backdrop for this story of a deep, unlikely friendship.
“This project embodies the spirit of our Rural Uplift incentive by basing its entire production in New Mexico’s smaller communities, injecting crucial economic activity and creating valuable jobs,” said Steve Graham , director of the New Mexico Film Office . “The film’s producers recognized that our diverse landscapes, from the high desert plains to healing springs, offer unparalleled versatility.”
Led by producers Noli Molla , Jacques Abrahmian , and Jim Burleson , the film will bring an economic boost to the rural communities of Socorro, Truth or Consequences, and Magdalena, and will employ more than 100 New Mexicans. Filming will continue through November.
“New Mexico has revealed itself to be the perfect location for this ‘multi-state’ road film,” said Molla .
For more information, contact: thesunshinemovie@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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