Production Officially Underway in New Mexico on Post-Apocalyptic Thriller holySMOKE with support from Vault Studios
Santa Fe, NM—Production in Albuquerque has officially begun on "holySMOKE," a science-charged, post-apocalyptic horror feature that brings together an electrifying cast led by Will Yun Lee, Don Benjamin, Alexis Knapp, Adam W., Terrence J., and Yancey Arias.
Executive producers on the title include Don Benjamin, Jaron Marquis, Greg Carter, Camille Janiffa Bradshaw, Krish Sidhu, Ronique Shaw, Juliette Hagopian, Dee Dryden, Jalene Mack, Michael Owens, James McFadden, Rhyan LaMarr, Stacy Kemp, and Chris Stokes. The film brings a bold, genre-defying vision to the Land of Enchantment. Blending grounded storytelling with cinematic spectacle, the film offers a fresh voice in the world of sci-fi thrillers. The film will be distributed globally by recently-launched Inaugural Entertainment in partnership with Relativity Media
“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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Year: 2025
Project Type: Feature Film
Status: In Production
Producer: Greg Carter, Jaron Marquis, Ronique Shaw, Don Benjamin, and Krish Sidhu,
Cast: Don Benjamin, Adam Waheed, Yancey Arias, Alexis Knapp, Will Yun Lee, and Terrence J.
