'Next Exit' film to hold premiere in Tucumcari

"Next Exit," an acclaimed life-after-death drama and comedy film partially shot in Tucumcari, will hold its official premiere at Tucumcari's historic Odeon Theatre on Monday evening.

Doors at the theater will open at 5 p.m., with the screening at 6 p.m. The film's writer and director Mali Elfman, co-star Katie Parker, producer Derek Bishe and Magnolia Pictures marketing and distribution Neal Block will hold a question-and-answer session after the showing at 7:40 p.m., Odeon Theatre general manager Christie Dominguez said.

A press kit from the movie contains this synopsis: "'Next Exit' follows a research scientist who makes national news proving she can track people into the afterlife. Rose (Parker) sees a way out and Teddy (Rahul Kahli) sees his chance to finally make it.

"These two strangers, both harboring dark secrets, race to join the doctor's contentious study and leave this life behind. While Rose is haunted by a ghostly presence that she can't outrun, Teddy is forced to confront his past.

"As these two misfits humorously quarrel their way across the country, they meet people along the way who force them to reckon with what is really driving them."

"Next Exit" is scheduled to see a limited release nationwide on Nov. 4, though the film also has been shown at several film festivals to considerable praise.

According to RottenTomatoes.com, "Next Exit" has a 96% "fresh" rating from movie critics around the country. Several have speculated the film may land Academy Award nominations.

One still from the film in an online report shows Parker and Kahli inside the Kix on 66 restaurant in Tucumcari with the long-closed Relax Inn motel in the background.

The film's credits thank then-Tucumcari city manager Mark Martinez, City of Tucumcari, Quay County Sheriff's Office and the Tucumcari Police Department. Tucumcari restaurateur Todd Duplantis also is listed as one of the film's caterers.