After the success of “Breaking Bad,” Netflix wants more of New Mexico and has bought a massive film studio in the state.
The video-streaming giant announced this week it had acquired ABQ Studios in Albuquerque. The company said the move is part of a plan to bring up to $1 billion in production to New Mexico over the next decade, according to The Verge.
“Our experience producing shows and films in New Mexico inspired us to jump at the chance to establish a new production hub here,” Ty Warren, Netflix’s vice president of physical production, said in a statement.
IndieWire reported that New Mexico state and the city of Albuquerque contributed a combined $15 million to the purchase of the studio, which comes on top of the state tax incentives the company will receive. Netflix is also working with the local film office to create 1,000 new jobs for locals.
The film studio spans over a 170,000-square-foot site and has attracted a drumbeat of high-profile productions, including “Better Call Saul,” the first of “The Avengers” films, “Logan” and “Preacher.” [The Verge, IndieWire]–David Jeans