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Oscar-nominated actor to star in Christmas movie in Las Cruces
In Brief
• Get ready for a festive movie filmed in Las Cruces! “The Santa Assist” is a heartwarming rom-com directed by local filmmaker and NMSU professor Ross Marks.
• Join Santa’s cousin on his mission to bring back the magic of Christmas in New Mexico. The production features Eric Roberts as Santa Claus, bringing Hollywood talent to the Borderland.
• Numerous local businesses have benefitted from this exclusive production, and residents can be extras in the film.
• The majority of the crew consists of NMSU students who are gaining valuable experience within the film industry.
• Praised for their impressive work, Judy Pinnel and Mary Harmer wrote the screenplay for “The Santa Assist.”
• The film will be released just in time for Christmas 2024 and may even be distributed by a popular streaming service. Don’t miss out on this entertaining Christmas movie that is sure to bring joy to your holiday season!
“The Santa Assist,” directed by local filmmaker and NMSU professor Ross Marks, is a heartwarming rom-com that will capture your holiday spirit.
Join Santa’s cousin as he embarks on a mission to bring back the magic of Christmas in a small town in New Mexico. It’s funny, charming, and full of whimsy – everything you love in a Christmas movie.
What’s even better is that this production is not just bringing Hollywood talent to the Borderland but also allowing NMSU students to work alongside acclaimed actor Eric Roberts. Roberts, who takes on the role of Santa Claus, stays in character throughout the entire filming process.
Through the Las Cruces International Film Festival and exclusive production in southern New Mexico, Marks is committed to expanding the local film industry and showcasing the area’s beauty. As a result, numerous local businesses have benefitted, and even residents have had the chance to be extras in the film.
The majority of the production crew consists of NMSU students who are gaining valuable experience and enhancing their resumes. This unique opportunity allows them to explore different career paths within the film industry and make connections for future endeavors.
Marks, who has worked on six feature films with major actors, describes “The Santa Assist” as his most rewarding and enjoyable experience yet. He praises the screenplay writers Judy Pinnel and Mary Harmer for their impressive work.
With the film in its final stages of production, it is set to be released just in time for Christmas 2024. There is already interest from a popular streaming service known for its Christmas movies, which may distribute it in theaters.
Don’t miss out on this heartwarming and entertaining Christmas movie that will capture your imagination and bring joy to your holiday season.