Actor Patrick Fabian, widely recognized for his portrayal of Howard Hamlin in the hit television series Better Call Saul, recently brought his latest cinematic project to New Mexico for the Santa Fe Film Festival. The festival marked the premiere of the film Tag – Under the Influence, offering audiences a fresh look at the actor’s work outside of his established television roots.
Premieres and the Search for Distribution
During his appearance at the Santa Fe Film Festival, Fabian was joined by writer and director Kristen Goodman alongside co-star Cassidy Freeman, known for her role in the New Mexico-filmed series Longmire. Tag – Under the Influence debuted to festival-goers, serving as a significant platform for the production team to showcase their creative efforts in a state deeply tied to the film and television industry.
Following the screening, the film’s production team actively began searching for a formal distribution partner. While the festival premiere successfully expanded the project’s reach beyond Fabian’s dedicated television following, specific details regarding prospective distributors or upcoming distribution agreements have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Connecting with Fans in Albuquerque
In addition to his official festival duties, Fabian took time to connect directly with his supporters during a special visit to Albuquerque. Large crowds and eager fans formed lines both inside and outside of the popular Breaking Bad Store located in the city’s historic Old Town district.
“I love it, I love getting out and meeting somebody everywhere. And I don’t mind people stopping you on the street to say ‘Hey Howard!’ I think I’m very lucky that that could happen,” Fabian shared with local reporters.
Although Fabian no longer resides in New Mexico permanently, he noted that returning to the state for the festival and fan interactions felt akin to coming home, given his extensive tenure filming Better Call Saul locally across all six of its seasons.
Celebrating Local Film Culture
The Santa Fe Film Festival continues to act as a vital cultural hub for both independent filmmakers and established industry professionals. Often referred to affectionately as “Tamalewood,” New Mexico provides a unique backdrop that champions local talent, Indigenous creators, and youth filmmakers. The presence of actors like Fabian and Freeman underscores the region’s enduring appeal as a premier destination for cinematic storytelling and community-driven arts.
