This Historic 1700s Bergen County Landmark Is Transforming Into a Movie Set (And You Can Be In It)
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Wyckoff NJ, An iconic piece of North Jersey history is about to get its close-up. A team of local, independent filmmakers is converging on Wyckoff, New Jersey, to shoot a brand-new movie project. The chosen backdrop? The Barn Original, a famously historic Bergen County restaurant with roots stretching all the way back to the American Revolutionary era.
Filming is officially scheduled for June 29, and the production team is opening up the set to local residents. If you have ever wanted to see a movie set up close—or see your own face on the big screen—this is your chance.
From 1700s Dairy Barn to Surreal Film Set
The location itself is a massive draw for the production. Long before it was a popular local dining destination, The Barn was built in 1779 as a working dairy barn.
Its cinematic evolution continued through the decades:
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The 1920s: During the height of Prohibition, the structure was secretly converted into a hidden neighborhood speakeasy.
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The Unique Vibe: The restaurant’s famous bar is actually built entirely out of an authentic, old-fashioned farm wagon that still stands today.
NJ native producer and director Rob Asaro, who grew up in nearby Parsippany, noted that the restaurant’s aesthetic was exactly what his project needed. “I scouted locations. This one had the right look. Very original. Matches the vibe of the film,” Asaro explained.
What Is “Denim” About?
The upcoming short film, titled Denim, is described as a surreal road drama. The plot follows a man who embarks on an intense, cross-country drive to reclaim a stolen denim jacket.
However, his journey quickly takes a psychological turn as he descends into an increasingly strange, unsettling, and dangerous Colorado landscape. As the miles stack up, a series of eerie encounters force the protagonist to confront deep-seated obsessions, his own identity, and the lingering memories of who he used to be.
While key scenes are being filmed right here at the Wyckoff landmark, the crew will also be shooting footage in Montclair, Parsippany, and out West in Colorado this summer. The goal is to wrap production by the end of the year and submit the finished film to major film festivals in 2027 to catch the eyes of global distributors.
How You Can Get Involved: Casting Call for Local Extras
The production team at Lost in the Light Productions is actively looking for local help and has launched a casting call for background talent.
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Who They Need: Background actors and extras of all types, ages 18 and up.
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The Details: While these are unpaid indie film roles, the crew emphasizes that it is a phenomenal, low-pressure opportunity for anyone looking to build a resume, learn about film production, or cross “being in a movie” off their bucket list.
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The Perk: Free lunch is provided on set!
How to Apply:
If you are completely free on June 29 and want to participate, you must sign up ahead of time. Email the production team directly at:
📩 Lostinthelightproductions@gmail.com
Be sure to include your full name, age, a recent photo, and your general availability for the day.
To track the project’s journey from a Bergen County staple to the festival circuit, you can check out the official listing on IMDb.
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