Hutton Films, a division of Hutton Broadcasting, proudly presents Zozobra: 100 Years of Fire and Redemption in celebration of this year’s 100th Burning of Zozobra. The documentary shines a spotlight on Santa Fe’s most iconic tradition, capturing the spirit of Zozobra and the event’s lasting impact on our community.
Reserve Tickets for Violet Crown Screenings
Watch the Trailer
Join Us for Special Screenings at the Violet Crown
To celebrate this significant milestone, Hutton Broadcasting is proud to offer several opportunities to watch the documentary. The festivities kick off on Thursday, August 29, with a free showing at 7 p.m. on Channel 7, giving everyone a chance to tune in from the comfort of their homes.
For those who prefer the magic of the big screen, join us on Saturday, August 31, at Violet Crown Cinema, where screenings will run every hour from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets for this event are free if obtained in person, or you can book them online with a nominal $2 service charge. Reserve your seats today for this limited engagement!
But that’s not all. If you can’t make it on August 31, starting Sunday, September 1, the documentary will be available for viewing daily through September 5, with tickets priced at just $7. Best of all, all proceeds from these showings will benefit the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe, ensuring that Zozobra’s legacy continues to support our community. This is your chance to see Zozobra: 100 Years of Fire and Redemption on the big screen and experience his legacy like never before.
The Story Behind Zozobra: A Symbol of Renewal
Each year, a towering effigy of Zozobra is constructed, stuffed with notes, divorce decrees, legal papers, photos, and other flammable mementos that represent people’s gloom and despair. These items are then set ablaze in a dramatic ceremony, symbolizing the communal release of hardships and heralding a fresh start.
What began as a modest gathering has transformed into a cherished celebration, attracting thousands of spectators from near and far. The Burning of Zozobra is now a deeply ingrained cultural tradition, uniting people in a shared experience of catharsis and renewal.
A Century of Zozobra: Capturing Tradition on Film
Hutton Films, in collaboration with the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe and PNM, has crafted Zozobra: 100 Years of Fire and Redemption, a 40-minute documentary that brings the story of Zozobra to life. The film captures the evolution of this cherished tradition, showcasing the creativity and dedication that have sustained it for a century. The Kiwanis Club, stewards of Zozobra since 1965, has played a crucial role in maintaining and growing this beloved event, with proceeds supporting local youth programs. PNM’s role as a community partner further reflects their commitment to preserving local culture.
Elisa Hutton, the director of Hutton Films shares the inspiration behind the project, “Zozobra is more than a tradition; it’s a powerful symbol of community, history, and renewal. We see this documentary as a way to capture that spirit and share it with a wider audience.”
This film goes beyond documenting the event; it explores the emotions, history, and personal stories of those who have kept Zozobra alive. By blending the event’s striking imagery with these narratives, the film creates a timeless record that educates and inspires viewers. “Our goal was to ensure that future generations understand not just the spectacle of Zozobra but the deeper meaning behind it,” Elisa adds. “It’s fitting for Hutton Films to tell this story, given our deep roots in the community and commitment to preserving local culture.”
Voices Behind the Tradition: Insights from the Stewards of Zozobra
For those dedicated to preserving the Zozobra tradition, the documentary has been a deeply moving experience. Raymond Sandoval, Zozobra event committee chair, says, “Seeing Zozobra’s history captured on film is incredibly gratifying. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the event’s cultural heritage and the collective memories of the community. The film beautifully encapsulates the essence of Zozobra, showcasing its evolution and significance over the years.”
Sandoval hopes the film will deepen viewers’ understanding of Zozobra’s meaning. He adds, “The documentary delves into the historical and cultural context of the event, offering insights into why Zozobra holds such a special place in the hearts of many. I also hope it inspires viewers to participate and keep this tradition alive.”
Judith Moir, another steward, underscores the documentary’s role in preserving Zozobra’s legacy. She says, “The film’s exquisite compilation of photos, memories, commentary, and archival footage successfully delivers the same emotional power that former Fire Spirit Chip Lilienthal mentions in his interview [in the film] –– no one comes away from Zozobra unchanged.”
Moir believes the film will help sustain Zozobra’s future by inspiring new generations. She says, “By revealing the complexity of details that the Zozobra tradition encompasses and the constant care it takes to keep the event vibrant and vital, the documentary will help keep Zozobra’s flame burning brightly into the future.”
Both stewards credit Hutton Films with bringing the documentary to life. Sandoval remarks, “Their expertise in film production, combined with their passion for storytelling, helped to create a documentary that is both informative and emotionally resonant.”
Moir adds, “The hard work and unflagging dedication the Hutton team devoted to creating this documentary was awe-inspiring. Their collaborative approach resulted in an exceptionally creative film that tells a moving and memorable story.”
Preserving Tradition, Inspiring the Future
Scott Hutton owner of Hutton Broadcasting adds, “As we commemorate Zozobra’s centennial, this documentary stands as both a time capsule and a beacon for the future. At Hutton Broadcasting, we take pride in documenting this historic event, knowing that our efforts help keep his story alive. This film is more than a reflection on a century of tradition — it’s a celebration of the community that has nurtured Zozobra and a reminder of the importance of passing on these traditions.”
Join Hutton Broadcasting and the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe on Saturday, August 31, at Violet Crown Cinema for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration and become part of a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come. We look forward to seeing you there!
Hutton Broadcasting is a multimedia company based in Santa Fe New Mexico with 15 radio stations, 350 digital displays, a full-service video production company, a digital solutions company, and city tourism websites including SantaFe.com, Albuquerque.com, LasCruces.com, VisitFourCorners.com, and Ruidoso.com. For more information email [email protected].