A running start: NM-filmed 'Coyote Cage' set to premiere to sold-out audience at NHCC

Sep. 21—Growing up in Albuquerque, Jerry G. Angelo was enamored by the magic of Hollywood.

He rose through the ranks in the independent film world and eventually made the jump to California.

It was a move that proved fruitful as he is behind RokitPig Entertainment. It's his goal to bring independent productions back to New Mexico.

Case in point — "Coyote Cage."

The independent film has Albuquerque-based Michael Perez at the helm and Devin O'Leary as the writer.

The film is slated to have its premiere at the National Hispanic Cultural Center at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22.

It is part of the NHCC's film series, which showcases films with a Latino tie. The film has reserved all of its tickets for a sold-out screening.

"I met Michael on a panel and he was putting this project together," Angelo says. "We hit it off and began to plan for the film."

"Coyote Cage" tells the dark, dramatic story of a group of Latin American immigrants, desperate to cross the border into America. Each one is there for a different reason and from a different place. They all soon find themselves in the middle of a human trafficking ring and seek shelter in a safe house ... that is anything but.

The film stars Michael McNulty, Aubrey Trujillo, Carlos Enrique Almirante, Fernando Alvarez, Valentín Güereque, Marila Lombrozo, Pablo Correa and a host of New Mexico actors.

The production was filmed in late-2022 in and around Albuquerque, as well as in Stanley.

The crew was made up of local professionals, including cinematographer Nicholas Kerekes, assistant director Andy Nyikos, fight choreographer Josh Costa and sound mixer/editor Delmone Taylor.

Angelo's film career started in New Mexico about 25 years ago.

Along the way, he's tried to maintain the relationships he's built in the state and collaborate with others he's meeting in Los Angeles.

"What I love about Michael is his inspiration," Angelo says. "It was a good fit because he was wanting to make his second feature film and I have a great understanding of how to make it happen."

Angelo is also proud to highlight many of the Hispanic cast and crew with this production.

"This is a film that lends a voice to a cause," he says. "It's important that we have representation in all productions. I'm excited to present it to the world."

SEND ME YOUR TIPS: If you know of a movie filming in the state, or are curious about one, email [email protected]. Follow me on Twitter @agomezART.