Las Cruces Film Festival Brings Hollywood to the Borderland

Film lovers across the Borderland will want to mark their calendars, the Las Cruces International Film Festival is back this Spring, bringing movies, filmmakers and serious Hollywood energy to southern New Mexico for five days.

For film lovers in El Paso and across the Borderland, this is one of those events that feels way bigger than the drive. It’s close, it’s packed with talent, and it’s a chance to experience a little bit of Hollywood without leaving the region.

Hollywood Talent Is Heading to the Borderland

This year’s festival will feature 160 films from around the world, along with special screenings, panels and hands-on workshops designed for both movie fans and future filmmakers.

One of the biggest highlights this year is the arrival of acclaimed filmmaker Shane Black, whose work helped define some of the most iconic action films of the past few decades, from Lethal Weapon to Iron Man 3 and The Nice Guys. He’ll be honored with the festival’s Outstanding Filmmaker Award, and fans will also get the chance to see The Nice Guys on the big screen during a special screening.

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Even better, audiences can stick around afterward for a live Q&A, where Black will talk about his career, creative process and what goes into making films that stand the test of time.

And he’s not the only familiar face making a stop in Las Cruces; actor Michael Rooker, known for his roles in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and countless fan-favorite films, will also be part of the festival. He’s set to receive the Outstanding Achievement in Entertainment Award and will take part in a special screening and Q&A of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.

Another notable name heading to the festival is actor Steve Zahn, who stars in the opening night film She Dances. The film kicks off the festival on April 8 and explores a heartfelt father-daughter story, with Zahn appearing alongside his real-life daughter.

Following the screening, Zahn is expected to take part in a Q&A, giving audiences a chance to hear directly about the film and the experience of working on such a personal project.

For movie fans, it’s a rare chance to hear directly from both a major filmmaker and a recognizable Hollywood actor, all in one weekend, just up the road.

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The 11th annual festival runs April 8 through April 12 at the Allen Theatres Cineport 10 in Las Cruces.

Across those five days, audiences can explore a wide mix of films, from feature-length stories to short films, documentaries, animation and music videos, all coming from filmmakers around the world.

Beyond the screenings, the festival also offers panels and workshops that dive into everything from acting and directing to stunt work and prop-making, giving attendees a deeper look at how movies actually come together.

Tickets, passes and the full schedule are available now at lascrucesfilmfest.com.