Unusual activity near La Cueva High School recently got residents chatting on NextDoor.
On March 18, a question was posed on the site asking, “Does anyone know what is being filmed by La Cueva HS?” The question garnered more than a dozen replies, with app users speculating about what was being filmed in the area.
One user responded, “That’s LongBoard. He [user’s husband] said it’s a really big production.” Further down the thread, the same person said the film was about surfing, and still further down another said it was about “college age skate boarders.”
Cindy McCrossen, Albuquerque liaison for the New Mexico Film Office, confirmed that “LongBoard” is an Apple TV series being filmed at different locations throughout Albuquerque, but the actual name of the production was not available to her. She said the internet is “pretty dark” regarding information about the series and exact filming locations, adding there was “nothing releasable” she could provide to the media.
One IATSE Local 480 member said film crews have to sign nondisclosure agreements, making it difficult for the public to find out about filming locations and show details. The union member said New Mexico Film Office’s Facebook group is a good source of information, while also confirming that LongBoard’s production name is “Echo 3.”
According to an article on Variety’s website, “Echo 3” is about two men searching for a scientist who goes missing along the Colombia-Venezuela border during a secret war. The article says Luke Evans has a lead role in the series. The actor starred in other films such as “The Three Musketeers,” “Immortals,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Hobbit.”
When asked about a NextDoor post inquiring if an explosion heard nearby had anything to do with the filming, McCrossen said residents in the immediate vicinity of film locations are given notices regarding loud noises. Notices can also include information about increased traffic, parking restrictions and lighting, she said.
Anyone interested in learning more about New Mexico’s film industry can visit nmfilm.com. The city of Albuquerque’s Film Office website also provides links to casting calls and news about productions throughout the city.
