NMFO Announces Film "holySMOKE" Wraps, Supported by Vault Studios
Michelle Lujan Grisham
Governor
Rob Black
Cabinet Secretary
Steve Graham
Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 16, 2025
Contact: Dolores Martinez
dolores.martinez@nmfilm.com
Sci-fi Thriller finds its otherworldly home in New Mexico with support from Vault Studios
Santa Fe, NM —T he feature film "holySMOKE," featuring New Mexico’s breathtaking locations and talented crew base, wrapped filming in Albuquerque in July.
Produced by Greg Carter , Jaron Marquis , and Ronique Shaw , with executive producers Don Benjamin and Krish Sidhu , the film brings a bold, genre-defying vision to the Land of Enchantment. The film stars Don Benjamin , Adam Waheed , Yancey Arias , Alexis Knapp , Will Yun Lee , and Terrence J. , among others. Blending grounded storytelling with cinematic spectacle, the film offers a fresh voice in the world of sci-fi thrillers.
“As an indie creator, I’ve always been drawn to stories that challenge convention and tap into something deeper,” said creator Don Benjamin . “With 'holySMOKE,' we’re fusing genre, culture, and raw emotion to create something that’s not only thrilling, but thought-provoking. It’s a gritty, immersive ride that explores faith, redemption, and what it means to fight for something bigger than yourself.”
The production team cited their partnership with Vault Studios in Albuquerque for visual effects as one of the major draws to film in the region. “Being able to work with Vault Studios here has been a game-changer,” said the producers. “Their creativity and technical expertise aligned perfectly with our vision — and it’s just one more reason Albuquerque was the right home for this film.”
“'holySMOKE' is the kind of innovative project we’re proud to host in Albuquerque,” said New Mexico Film Office Director Steve Graham . “This genre-bending film underscores the versatility of our locations and provides valuable work for our skilled New Mexico film professionals and local vendors.”
The production employed over fifty New Mexico residents, contributing to the state’s thriving film economy.
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