New Mexico Magazine 

Five Things to Do This Weekend: The renowned Santa Fe International Film Festival explores identity with global, independent, and Indigenous films

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This festival showcasing independent, international, and Indigenous films has become one of the most lauded in the country, and was recently recognized by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences as an Oscar-qualifying event. This year the films focus on the theme of identity, collective identity, and what makes each of us different. Screenings happen at venues throughout Santa Fe, including the Violet Crown Cinema, the Lensic Performing Arts Center, and the New Mexico History Museum.

Among the highlights of the five-day festival is Variety’s 10 Screenwriters to Watch panel at the Lensic on Friday at 7 p.m. “They highlight 10 screenwriters on the precipice of being major players,” says Liesette Bailey, executive director at the festival. “It’s really interesting to present right after the strikes in 2023.” Moderated by Variety editor Todd Gilchrist, the panel discussion includes Noah Pink (Eden) and Erica Tremblay (Fancy Dance).

On Saturday, Sunlight, a film about love and the extremes we will take to avoid toxic relationships that was shot in Albuquerque makes its United States premiere. Executive producer Christopher Guest and director Nina Conti will attend the 1 p.m. showing at the New Mexico History Museum. In addition to films, the weekend includes parties, panels, and other film-centric offerings. Find a full lineup here.

By Maria Manuela