The border city of Nogales, Sonora, is preparing to welcome the production team of the international film “Coyote,” directed by Beernz Prince and featuring world-renowned actors, including Mel Gibson. Municipal authorities confirmed that all logistical and security arrangements will be provided for the shoot, which will include several iconic locations in the city.
Nogales Government Supports Filming
City Clerk Hipólito Sedano Ruíz held a meeting with part of the cast and the film’s producers from the United States. During the meeting, it was agreed to provide full support for street closures, logistics, and security, so that filming runs smoothly during the two weeks the production will be in the city.
Sedano Ruíz emphasized that this project represents an opportunity to promote Nogales internationally.
“We are going to provide these producers with all the support they need so that, through the screening of the film, they can promote the city and its spaces, such as Plaza Benito Juárez, Reforma Street, and the plaza known as El Mono Bichi.”
— Hipólito Sedano Ruíz, Secretary of the City Council of Nogales, Sonora
A plot that connects with the border
The film “Coyote” tells the story of a Mexican family attempting to cross illegally into the United States with the help of a retired trafficker. The plot seeks to show the challenges, risks, and dilemmas of migration, using the Nogales border as a natural setting to reflect that reality.
Producer René Coronado, responsible for the portion filmed in Sonora, explained that the city was chosen for its historical and cultural richness, as well as its direct connection to Nogales, Arizona, a community that shares traditions, customs, and social dynamics.
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“This border town was chosen for its history, its people, and because it connects to another city of the same name. Additionally, we have the support of the municipal government, which makes filming easier.”
— René Coronado
Iconic locations in Nogales
The film crew will use Plaza Benito Juárez, Reforma Street, and the plaza known as El Mono Bichi as sets, as well as a grocery store, a ranch, and other spaces near the International Border. These locations will not only add realism to the production but will also serve as a window to promote tourism in the city.
According to local authorities, filming will require temporary street closures and logistical adjustments, which are already being coordinated with the municipal administration to minimize impacts on the community.
Internationally renowned cast
The cast of “Coyote” includes Esaí Morales, best known for his role in the film “La Bamba,” who will play the character of the retired drug dealer.
Karla Rodríguez Coronado also stars in the role of the mother of a girl trying to cross into the United States. Karla has appeared in films such as “50 (or Two Whales That Meet on the Beach),” “A Bad Actor,” and “Gloria.” Mel Gibson is also joining this cast, whose name has sparked great excitement among the public and the film industry, although his role in this new production has not yet been revealed.
International production in several countries
Although part of the film is taking place in Nogales, the majority of the film is being shot in New Mexico, with another portion in Italy and complementary scenes in Nogales, Sonora, and Nogales, Arizona. This reflects the international nature of the production and the relevance of the Mexican border to the narrative.
The producers reported that there are still approximately eight weeks of filming remaining in different locations before the filming phase concludes.
Premiere planned for 2026
The film “Coyote” is scheduled for release in October 2026, after completing the filming phase and entering the post-production process. The film is expected to be widely distributed in movie theaters and on digital platforms, giving Nogales significant international exposure.
This is not the first time Nogales has been used as a film location, but authorities are confident that this production will provide greater benefits to the community. In addition to the economic benefits generated by the film crew’s presence, the film will also serve as a tourism and cultural promotion tool for the city.
Secretary Sedano Ruíz concluded that the filming of “Coyote” represents an opportunity to showcase Nogales on the world stage. “We want this film to serve to highlight the identity of our border and the spirit of its people,” he said.
Source: elimparcial
