For New Mexico natives working on film sets, there’s a unique sense of pride when their home state’s beauty is authentically captured on screen. Megan Stone, an Albuquerque native who has spent her entire life in the Land of Enchantment and serves as an assistant to a co-executive director for the Netflix series “Ransom Canyon,” articulates this sentiment perfectly. “It really captures the beautiful enchantment that we get to every day,” Stone remarked, highlighting the show’s ability to portray the picturesque allure of New Mexico.
Stone, who has witnessed “Ransom Canyon” skyrocket to become Variety’s most-streamed TV show in April, believes the series’ widespread appeal stems from its diverse narrative. “‘Ransom Canyon’ has something for everyone,” she explained. “There’s love, land, legacy, romance, drama, rodeos, [and] city life. There’s truly something for everyone, and that’s the reason why it’s trending on Netflix right now.”
The success of “Ransom Canyon” isn’t just a testament to its compelling storyline; it also speaks to the vibrant film community in New Mexico. Stone wasn’t the only local talent contributing to the production; actress Minka Kelly, a star in the show, even attended Valley High School in Albuquerque. Stone emphasized the strong bonds forged within the state’s entertainment industry. “One thing that I have specifically noticed in the New Mexico film community is we truly are a family,” she shared. “If you’re working on one production together, you are likely working on two or three productions together in the future. And one thing a lot of us on ‘Ransom Canyon’ have said is that the family we created is unlike anything.” This collaborative spirit and familial atmosphere clearly contribute to the successful projects coming out of the New Mexico film scene.
