Jun. 13—The Santa Fe International Film Festival has been named one of MovieMaker Magazine's "50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee" for the third year in a row, and is the only New Mexico film festival to make the list.

"We're just so really honored that we're receiving that kind of recognition from MovieMaker," Jacques Paisner, SFiFF artistic director, said. "What they wrote about the festival was really complimentary, and that they've continued to keep us on the list, I think, shows that staying power."

The award comes after the festival was placed as MovieMakers' 2025 No. 1 smaller city to live and work in as a moviemaker. MovieMaker noted that the festival highlights both the best of the fast-rising film community and cinema worldwide.

"Visit the festival, which earned Oscar-qualifying status last year, and you may seriously consider a move to New Mexico, drawn by the laid-back Southwestern chic of its parties and the artistic passion of the many ex-Angelenos and New Yorkers who move to the Land of Enchantment to live out DIY dreams," MovieMaker wrote.

The article highlights key aspects of the festival, including substantial prize packages, such as the $90,000 awarded to the Best Narrative Feature winner and unique viewing venues, like the Violet Crown and Jean Cocteau cinemas.

Paisner says that the unique style and architecture are what draw people to the artistic city , and that awards like MovieMaker's bring even more people to participate in the festival.

"I think (the award) attracts more people to submit to the festival. And I do think when they've played here, they get to say, you know, this is not only an Academy qualifying festival, but also one of MovieMaker Magazine's 50 worth the entry fee," Paisner said.

The Santa Fe International Film Festival will take place Oct. 15-20.