Netflix’s latest sci-fi mystery, ‘The Boroughs,’ is set to transport viewers to a seemingly quiet retirement community in a fictional New Mexico town. While the story may be fictional, the stunning backdrops are very real. The series was filmed extensively across New Mexico, transforming the state’s unique landscapes and urban centers into the world of the show. This production not only showcases the state’s scenic beauty but also reinforces its growing reputation as a major hub for film and television, promising a new wave of interest from travelers worldwide.
Bringing a Fictional Town to Life
The production team for ‘The Boroughs’ skillfully blended purpose-built sets with real-world locations to create an authentic sense of place. While parts of the fictional town were constructed at Netflix’s own state-of-the-art Albuquerque Studios, the series ventured out to capture the true essence of New Mexico.
Key locations included:
- Traditions Mall: This defunct shopping center in Albuquerque was given new life, becoming a central set piece for the series.
- Albuquerque Convention Center & First Plaza Galleria: These downtown landmarks were utilized, showcasing the city’s modern architecture.
- Various Local Businesses and Parks: The production integrated numerous local spots, grounding the sci-fi narrative in a recognizable, real-world setting.
By choosing to film on location, the creators aimed to harness New Mexico’s distinctive open skies and dramatic scenery, making the environment a character in itself.
Background: New Mexico’s Rise as a Filming Powerhouse
The selection of New Mexico for ‘The Boroughs’ is no coincidence. The state, often called “The Land of Enchantment,” has strategically positioned itself as a top destination for Hollywood productions. This is largely due to its highly competitive film incentive program, which offers a refundable tax credit of up to 35% for production expenditures in the state.
This incentive has attracted a slate of high-profile projects, creating a significant economic impact. In fiscal year 2023, the film and television industry generated approximately $795 million in direct spending in New Mexico. The state has famously served as the backdrop for the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, which turned Albuquerque into an international tourist destination. More recently, the Oscar-winning film Oppenheimer showcased the dramatic landscapes of Los Alamos and Ghost Ranch. ‘The Boroughs’ is the latest major production to build on this legacy.
The Future Impact: Predicting the ‘Boroughs’ Effect
The global release of ‘The Boroughs’ on Netflix is poised to trigger a new surge in what is known as “film tourism” or “set-jetting.” When a series captures the imagination of a global audience, viewers are often inspired to visit the locations they see on screen.
- A New Tourist Trail: Just as Breaking Bad created a cottage industry of location tours, ‘The Boroughs’ could inspire fans to seek out its filming sites in and around Albuquerque. The revitalization of Traditions Mall, in particular, could become a point of interest.
- Economic Boost for Local Businesses: Increased visitor traffic translates directly into revenue for local hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and shops, providing a tangible economic benefit to the community.
- Enhanced Global Profile: With its landscapes broadcast to millions of Netflix subscribers worldwide, ‘The Boroughs’ will serve as a powerful marketing tool for New Mexico, highlighting its unique beauty and positioning it as an attractive travel destination beyond its film industry credentials.
‘The Boroughs’ is more than just the next big mystery series; it’s a cinematic postcard from New Mexico. For travelers seeking their next adventure, the show offers a compelling glimpse into the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cities of a state that is truly ready for its close-up.
