New Mexico filmmakers Andrew Jara and Sheyla Rico lead project starring Bianca Dumais

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - “Followed,” a short film exploring digital vulnerability, online safety and the blurred line between virtual and physical threats, has wrapped principal photography in Las Cruces. Filming concluded in May.

The project is directed by New Mexico filmmaker Andrew Jara, known for “The Empty Space,” and produced by Sheyla Rico, whose credits include “A Long Road to Tao.” The cast features New Mexico actress Bianca Dumais in her first lead role, alongside Nicolas Check. The story follows a popular streamer whose live broadcast is hijacked by a stalker — and the online threat spills into her real life.

“The completion of projects such as ‘Followed’ from our local filmmaking community — particularly those originating from Las Cruces — is significant,” said Steve Graham, director of the New Mexico Film Office. “These short films provide valuable experience to emerging local talent, including skilled crews and promising actors, and contribute to the industry’s growth.”

“It is a great short that shows the terrifying outcomes that can come from living in a world online,” Rico said. “I’m excited to bring a production to Las Cruces to show off the talent that southern New Mexico has to offer.”

The production employed more than 20 New Mexico residents, including 20 crew members, two principal actors and one background performer.

For more information, contact nothingventuredpictures1@gmail.com.