Las Cruces stories sought for film festival

“The public is encouraged … to show off what Las Cruces has to offer as a tourism hotspot,” the City of Las Cruces said in a news release, as the Las Cruces International Film Festival (LCIFF) and Visit Las Cruces (VLC) issued a public call for entries for a “Visit Las Cruces Stories” video contest.

Participants are asked to create a three- five-minute video showcasing Las Cruces as a desired travel and tourism destination, the city said.

Entries will be accepted Nov. 15, 2022-Feb. 15, 2023.

“This contest is designed to engage the community with the wonderful city that is Las Cruces,” said LCIFF Executive Director Ross Marks, who is a professor in the New Mexico State University Creative Media Institute. “Las Cruces is a vibrant, supportive, enriching community with so many facets and stories. This contest allows filmmakers to tell those Las Cruces stories and showcase the city. As the premiere film event in town, I am proud LCIFF together with VLC can support filmmakers and the city at the same time,” Marks said.

Cash prizes will be given for the contest’s first-, second- and third-place winners: $1,000, $500 and $250 respectively, along with VIP tickets to 2023 LCIFF. Winning entries will be played before each screening during the festival.

“Las Cruces is much more than a place. It is a destination full of friendly people, bold flavors, a thriving art scene and rugged outdoor adventure, while staying true to its rich history and culture,” VLC Director Rochelle Miller-Hernandez said. “The Las Cruces Stories contest is meant to capture the spirit of our city and what makes it a place you want to experience. We can’t wait to see what these talented filmmakers create!”

For complete details on the contest, including entry forms, email visitlcstories@gmail.com. Visit https://lascrucesfilmfest.com/visitlcstories/.