Film Belen

The City of Belen, especially our historic downtown, has played host to dozens of films over the years.

Going all the way back to 1971, film greats Betty Davis, Ernest Borgnine, and Jack Cassidy walked the streets of Belen in one of the first films shot here, “Bunny O’Hare.” Seven years later in 1978, Borgnine returned to the Hub City in “Convoy,” one of director Sam Peckinpah’s last films. The film also starred Kris Kristofferson, Ali MacGraw, and Burt Young.

What's Been Filmed Here

Downtown Belen, centered around our historic water tower, is very popular for filmmakers. Several television shows as well as many films were made here. Here is a short list of some of the recent television shows and films shot in Belen:

• The Minuteman (2019)
• Briarpatch (2019)
• Blood Father (2016)
• The Space Between Us (2016)
• Preacher (2016)
• Katie Says Goodbye (2016)
• Two Men in Town (2015)
• Dig (2015)
• Sun Belt Express (2014)
• Killer Women (2014)
• Transcendence (2014)
• As Cool As I Am (2013)
• The Last Stand (2013)
• In Plain Sight (2011)
• Swing Vote (2008)

What Do We Offer

The City of Belen offers a diversity of locations for movie-making. The community maintains that small town feel that has doubled for a bustling Amish town in Pennsylvania in the television series "In Plain Sight" and a futuristic desert town in "Transcendence" -- but we've even doubled as a rundown Washington, DC, in the mini-series "The Lost Room." Belen and its residents are film friendly, which many filmmakers love about our community. The city and property owners are accommodating. If a building does not fit what a producer wants, there are plenty of vacant lots on which to build sets, with some calling Belen's Becker Avenue the best backlot outside of Hollywood. Belen offers:

• Best site locations in the Albuquerque area
• City staff available 24/7 to assist with local logistics
• Accommodating property owners
• No filming fees
• Quick permitting process

Contact

For more information about filming in Belen, contact Steven Tomita, film liaison Phone: 505-966-2745 Email Steve

Download the Film Permit Application by clicking the link below. You can submit your completed forms via Email to DevelopmentServices@belen-nm.gov , deliver in person or send by mail.