Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1546223
architecture are more than scenery; they become psychological landscapes reflecting ambition, desperation, moral conflict and, perhaps, even a chance for redemption. For Pluribus, New Mexico's unique combination of world- class scientific research, enduring UFO lore, and otherworldly volcanic terrain provides an ideal setting where science, mystery, and imagination naturally converge. Gilligan recognized the talent within New Mexico's production community early on, embracing the state's commitment to building a local workforce whose regional knowledge would become one of his greatest assets and a nearly two-decades-long investment in regional filmmaking. "Vince Gilligan has made an extraordinary contribution to New Mexico's creative economy while helping establish our state as a world- class filmmaking destination," confirms New Mexico Film Liaison Cyndy McCrossen. "He continues to bring forward stories that are unexpected, original, and creatively ambitious, creating opportunities for our local crews and creative community with every project. We are grateful for his lasting impact on New Mexico and his continued commitment to making our state home for his work." Gilligan has consistently favored practical effects over digital shortcuts and has spoken candidly about the limitations and ethical challenges of generative AI. Whether exploring chemistry, surveillance, artificial intelligence, or speculative science, his stories ultimately affirm that technology matters far less than the character of those who wield it. The same philosophy defines his productions, where craftsmanship, collaboration, and human ingenuity remain irreplaceable. "It's not easy to knock on a homeowner's door and convince them to let 300 strangers traipse through their kitchen," he says in appreciation of his location team. "It's hard to pound the pavement looking for a place to park dozens of trucks where they'll be a quick hop from set but magically out of every camera angle. And it's no picnic convincing a neighborhood to let you swarm their streets… But these are the kinds of miracles location managers and their scouts perform on a daily basis." He has a profound respect for the communities that host production. After Breaking Bad transformed several Albuquerque locations into destinations for devoted fans, the Pluribus team decided to construct an entire suburban cul- de-sac with seven homes on Albuquerque's West Mesa for a recurring location. Carefully sited for its unobstructed mountain views and vast desert vista with city lights glowing in the distance, it captured the area's distinctive look without having to continuously disrupt an entire neighborhood during filming— and long after the series takes its final shot. Though the state remains Gilligan's narrative anchor, production did venture beyond New Mexico's borders for Pluribus' expansive storylines. Says Gilligan, "I've had the opportunity to work with location managers in Las Vegas, Montana, northern Spain, and the Canary Islands—proving to me that the spirit of discovery and the eagerness to meet a challenge are universal traits in the location manager community. These folks make my dreams come true. I am honored to be recognized with the Eva Monley Award by a group of professionals for whom I have so much admiration." By honoring the people who discover remarkable places, the communities that welcome production, and the landscapes that inspire unforgettable stories, Vince Gilligan has elevated the art of on-location filmmaking itself. For his extraordinary body of work, his unwavering belief in the power of place, and his enduring commitment to the collaborative spirit of filmmaking, the Location Managers Guild International proudly presents Vince Gilligan with the 2026 Eva Monley Award. "Location scouting with Vince is my favorite facet of pre-production and story development. Starting the day off by jumping into a van—or sometimes a helicopter—and setting out to find that perfect location that best delivers Vince's vision for the story he is creating." –LM Christian Diaz de Bedoya/LMGI WE BUILD WORLDS One Location at a Time