Upcoming film projects, possible studio plan signal growing momentum for Socorro’s movie scene

Producer and filmmaker Jim Burleson says several new film projects are in development for Socorro, along with an ambitious effort to establish a qualified film studio in the city, a move he believes could dramatically increase the number of productions coming to the area.

Burleson said he is juggling multiple projects but does not expect filming to resume locally until after March due to construction work and ongoing negotiations tied to New Mexico’s film incentive program.

“One of the projects I thought I would have has some concerns about the New Mexico rebate, so I’m still having to fight back with these guys,” he said. 

Burleson said he and his partners are working to raise capital for a film studio in Socorro, a development that could qualify productions for an additional 5 percent incentive, bringing the total rebate to 40 percent.

“If we had a qualified studio, we would qualify for the additional 5 percent,” he said. “That’s higher than any other place in the state. The number of films that we would get in Socorro would be incredible.”

Potential locations include the city’s industrial park, where discounted utilities and city support could make construction more feasible. Burleson said the biggest hurdle is securing funding.

“We’ve talked to the mayor. They’re interested in doing some grant programs, but getting government grants in New Mexico is not easy,” he said. “I’m looking at private equity because I can turn that money into immediate returns on investment.”

Despite the uncertainty around the studio project, Burleson said several films are already lined up for release this year, including projects shot in Socorro and at the historic Val Verde Hotel, which he owns.

A film he produced in Oklahoma is expected to be released this Christmas, and he is developing two additional projects with musician and actor Gene Simmons. At least one of those is expected to film in and around Socorro this summer.

Burleson also hinted at a major western project he hopes to bring to the area.

“It would be a big A-list western,” he said. “Really well-known actors, and the director and star are very famous. I can’t disclose yet, but all the parties have agreed. I just have to get them all to put it on paper.”

Several recent productions filmed in Socorro are nearing release, including "Coppers" and "Love meets in the Sunshine", both shot locally. A cheerleader‑themed horror film, "Give Me a D", is expected to be released around Halloween. "Night of Blood", a horror film starring Corey Taylor and filmed at the Val Verde, is slated for release this spring.

Burleson said he continues to work across multiple streaming platforms. His film "Letters at Christmas" is available on Amazon Prime, while "Hands" and "Onyx" are streaming on the AllBlk network. "War Dogz", another recent project, is currently on BET+.

Beyond film production, Burleson is expanding operations at the Va Verde Hotel, which serves as both an Airbnb and a production hub. He said commercial spaces in the building’s front rooms are expected to open soon.

With several projects in the pipeline and the possibility of a dedicated studio on the horizon, Burleson said he hopes to bring more economic activity and visibility to Socorro.

“Hopefully I can get jobs in here pretty soon,” he said.