Las Cruces International Film Festival celebrates a decade of film, education, and community engagement

The 10th annual festival features student showcases, industry panels, and honors for acclaimed actresses Helen Hunt and Michelle Hurd

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - As the Las Cruces International Film Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary from April 9–13, 2025, the event continues to highlight independent cinema, educational opportunities, and community engagement. Hosted by New Mexico State University’s Creative Media Institute, the festival has grown to attract approximately 12,000 attendees annually.

Not just red carpets — a focus on borderland storytelling

Many of the films selected for LCIFF this year reflect the cultural, geographic and social realities of life in southern New Mexico and the borderlands. Organizers have emphasized including films that address identity, migration, rural life, and community resilience.

One panel will bring together Indigenous filmmakers to explore the tension between tradition and modern storytelling tools. Another session — open to students and the public — will break down the logistics of funding and distributing independent films made in small cities like Las Cruces.

Behind the lens — spotlight on student filmmakers

A core component of LCIFF is the emphasis on student participation. The festival provides a platform for CMI students to showcase their work alongside seasoned filmmakers. This year’s schedule includes several student short film blocks:

• Student Shorts 1: Featuring titles such as The Spirit Became Flesh, Forgive Me Father, and Adams Pools
• High School Student Shorts: Highlighting emerging talent from local high schools with films like In Between and Aglow: The Prequel

These sessions offer students invaluable exposure and the opportunity to engage with industry professionals and audiences.

Honorees on stage — celebrating Helen Hunt and Michelle Hurd

LCIFF will honor Academy Award and Emmy Award-winning actress Helen Hunt with the “Outstanding Achievement in Entertainment” award. Hunt will participate in a screening of As Good As It Gets, followed by a Q&A session on April 10 at 6:15 p.m. at the NMSU Center for the Arts.

Additionally, actress Michelle Hurd, known for her role in Star Trek: Picard, will receive the “Outstanding Achievement in Drama” award. Hurd will be honored during the awards ceremony on April 12 at 7 p.m. at the Rio Grande Theatre and will headline the panel “Star Trek: Boldly Going from Script to Screen” earlier that day at 2 p.m.

Workshops and panels for every kind of creative

Beyond film screenings, LCIFF offers a variety of workshops and panels designed to educate and inspire attendees. Highlights include:

• Foley Workshop with Lara Dale: An interactive session on April 11 at 10:30 a.m. focused on the art of creating sound effects for film
• Screenwriting Panel: Featuring industry professionals Ed Stone, Don Foster, and Bill True, discussing the craft of writing for film and television
• Prop Making Workshop: Hosted by NMSU CMI alumnus Ben Curnutt on April 13 at 2 p.m., offering insights into the creation of film props

A festival rooted in place

LCIFF continues to serve as a bridge for filmmakers on both sides of the border, showcasing stories that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The festival’s commitment to community is evident in its collaborations with local artists, businesses and educational institutions, fostering a vibrant environment for storytelling.

Tickets and access

The festival offers various pass options:

• VIP Passes: $200
• All-Access Passes: $100
• Day Passes and Celebrity Screenings: $35 each

Tickets are available at www.lascrucesfilmfest.com.

As LCIFF marks a decade of cinematic celebration, it continues to provide a platform for filmmakers, students and the community to come together in appreciation of the art of film.