uStudios Partnered With New Mexico Film Office
The production company committed to a 10-year investment plan involving a new 19-acre film campus.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Film — General
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uStudios has formed a partnership with the New Mexico Film Office to boost local production with a 10-year commitment. The agreement includes the construction of a 19-acre campus known as The Lot.
Why it matters
The deal aims to bolster the state's entertainment economy by creating hundreds of jobs and supporting local businesses through a mandatory $50 million average annual spend.
The production of the film Rode to Ruin is expected to generate over 200 jobs, including 150 resident crew positions and 75 background roles. uStudios has committed $35 million in infrastructure investment for the new 19-acre campus.
The players
uStudios
This production company is developing a 19-acre campus in New Mexico known as The Lot.
New Mexico Film Office
This state agency oversees film production incentives and industry partnerships within New Mexico.
Michael Keaton
He is an award-winning actor currently cast in the production of Rode to Ruin.
Morgan Freeman
He is a veteran actor who holds a featured role in the upcoming production of Rode to Ruin.
Laura Linney
She is an acclaimed actress appearing in the film Rode to Ruin.
The details
The Lot will feature a 50,000-square-foot prop house alongside a 44,000-square-foot complex containing two digital soundstages. This infrastructure serves the upcoming production of Rode to Ruin, which stars Michael Keaton, Morgan Freeman, and Laura Linney.
Timeline
Filming of Rode to Ruin is scheduled for October 2026 in Santa Fe County.
Industry Dynamics
This move reflects a broader trend of production companies securing long-term regional tax incentives to build permanent, dedicated infrastructure. It positions New Mexico to remain a competitive hub for large-scale filming as studios shift toward owned campus models rather than relying on leased locations.
The production commitment ensures that major feature films like Rode to Ruin will have dedicated resources within the state for years to come. Local residents can anticipate increased hiring opportunities for crew and background acting roles starting in 2026.
The takeaway
The arrival of permanent soundstages and prop facilities provides New Mexico with a more stable infrastructure for consistent film output. This shift indicates that the state is evolving from a temporary shooting location into a long-term home for major studio productions.
Further reading
For additional context on the state's industry growth, visit Film — General.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KRQE 13.
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