New Mexico, with its stunning landscapes and unique cultural backdrop, has become a favored location for filmmakers. This curated list highlights ten exceptional films and TV shows that not only capture the essence of New Mexico but also showcase its versatility as a filming location. From the vast deserts to the historic pueblos, these productions have utilized New Mexico's natural beauty to enhance their storytelling, making them must-watches for anyone interested in the intersection of film and geography.

Easy Rider (1969)
Description: This iconic film captures the essence of the American road trip, with New Mexico's landscapes playing a pivotal role in the journey of self-discovery and freedom.
Fact: The film was shot in several New Mexico locations, including Taos, which added to its countercultural vibe.


Cowboys & Aliens (2011)
Description: This sci-fi western blends the rugged beauty of New Mexico with an alien invasion, creating a visually stunning backdrop for its genre-bending narrative.
Fact: The film was shot in and around Santa Fe, utilizing the state's expansive landscapes to create a believable setting for its extraterrestrial encounters.


No Country for Old Men (2007)
Description: This Coen Brothers' masterpiece uses New Mexico's desolate landscapes to underscore the film's themes of fate, morality, and the American West. The barren beauty of the state becomes a silent character in this intense thriller.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was shot in various locations around Santa Fe and Las Vegas, New Mexico.


The Book of Eli (2010)
Description: Post-apocalyptic New Mexico serves as the backdrop for this film, where the stark, desolate beauty of the state complements the film's themes of survival and redemption.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations, including the White Sands National Monument, which provided a unique visual setting.


The Lone Ranger (2013)
Description: This action-adventure film uses New Mexico's landscapes to recreate the Wild West, providing a visually rich environment for the tale of justice and heroism.
Fact: The film was shot in locations like Shiprock, which added an authentic feel to the Western setting.


Wild Hogs (2007)
Description: This comedy about a group of middle-aged men on a motorcycle trip captures the spirit of adventure and the scenic beauty of New Mexico, showcasing its small towns and open roads.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations including Madrid, New Mexico, which served as the fictional town of Del Fuego.


Better Call Saul (2014)
Description: This sci-fi thriller uses New Mexico's desert landscapes to set the stage for a mysterious and suspenseful narrative, blending the ordinary with the extraordinary.
Fact: The film was shot in and around Albuquerque, utilizing the state's vast, open spaces to enhance its otherworldly atmosphere.


Breaking Bad (2018)
Description: This anthology film by the Coen Brothers features New Mexico's varied terrains, from the high desert to the mountains, to tell six distinct tales of the Old West, each with its own unique flavor.
Fact: The film was shot in multiple locations across New Mexico, including the iconic White Sands National Monument.
