the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Trenton NJ, the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission has earned its first Outstanding Film Commission Award, marking a milestone moment for the Garden State’s growing reputation as a film hub. The honor was presented on August 23, 2025, at the 12th Annual Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) Awards in Santa Monica, California.
The commission was recognized for its role in supporting the acclaimed Bob Dylan biopic, “A Complete Unknown,” released by Searchlight Pictures and starring Timothée Chalamet. The film, which traces Dylan’s early career, was filmed almost entirely in New Jersey and has been celebrated both critically and commercially.
“A Complete Unknown” — Filmed Across 17 New Jersey Towns
The movie’s production showcased the versatility of New Jersey locations, which doubled as iconic U.S. cities, including New York City, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Rhode Island, and Northern California.
Notable filming sites included:
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Ritz Theatre (Elizabeth) – transformed into Carnegie Hall
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Newark Symphony Hall – used as a San Francisco concert venue
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Paterson City Hall
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White Mana Diner (Jersey City)
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William J. Brennan Courthouse (Jersey City)
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Columbus Park (Hoboken)
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Rutt’s Hut (Clifton)
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Former Essex County Isolation Hospital (Belleville)
Stage work for the film was completed at Palisade Stages in Kearny.
Awards and Recognition
In addition to the commission’s honor, “A Complete Unknown” also won Outstanding Locations in a Period Feature Film at the LMGI Awards. The biopic went on to secure eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Director, cementing its place as one of the year’s most celebrated films.
This win marked the first time New Jersey’s film commission has taken home the top prize, after multiple nominations in previous years.
Hollywood Spotlight on New Jersey
The ceremony, hosted by actress and producer Rachael Harris (Suits, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, The Hangover), drew over 400 attendees, including film executives and industry leaders.
The recognition shines a spotlight on New Jersey’s booming film and television industry, further solidifying its reputation as an affordable, diverse, and authentic alternative to New York City and Hollywood for big-budget productions.
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