New Jersey: Hollywood East? The State’s Film and TV Industry is Booming

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, the Garden State is making a dramatic comeback as a global hotspot for film and television production. With cutting-edge facilities, irresistible tax incentives, and diverse filming locations, New Jersey is rewriting its legacy as a leader in the entertainment industry.

From Edison’s Black Maria to Today’s Blockbusters

New Jersey’s cinematic roots trace back to 1893 when Thomas Edison established the world’s first film studio, the Black Maria, in West Orange. Fast-forward to the present, and New Jersey is again in the spotlight, thanks to strategic initiatives like the Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program. Relaunched in 2018 under Governor Phil Murphy, the program offers tax credits of 30% to 35%, with diversity bonuses of up to 4%, making it one of the most competitive in the nation.

The impact has been monumental. Since the program’s reintroduction:

• Over $2.4 billion in qualified production spending.
• Creation of 19,000+ jobs for New Jerseyans.
• Projections of $1 billion annually in industry spending by 2026.

The Soundstage Revolution

At the heart of New Jersey’s resurgence is its growing network of soundstages. As of 2024, the state boasts 70 operational soundstages, with plans to double that number by 2026. These high-tech facilities meet the increasing demand for controlled production environments.

Game-Changing Projects

• Netflix’s $903 Million Studio at Fort Monmouth: Transforming a historic military base into a creative hub.
• Lionsgate Newark Studios: A $125 million, 350,000-square-foot facility bringing blockbuster productions to the city.
• 1888 Studios in Bayonne: Poised to be the largest production campus in the Northeast, with 23 smart soundstages and over 1.5 million square feet of space.

These developments not only elevate New Jersey’s production capabilities but also drive local economic growth, creating opportunities for small businesses and skilled labor alike.

A Filmmaker’s Dream

Beyond its infrastructure, New Jersey’s geographic diversity sets it apart. With urban skylines, historic neighborhoods, pristine beaches, and lush farmlands, the state offers locations that can stand in for nearly any setting worldwide.

Programs like Film Ready New Jersey are further bolstering the state’s appeal. By training local governments to attract and support productions, the program ensures that municipalities across New Jersey are prepared for the logistical needs of film and TV crews. To date, 14 municipalities and four counties have earned certification, solidifying the state’s reputation as production-friendly.

A Star-Studded Lineup

Since 2021, New Jersey has hosted 1,891 productions, including high-profile films and series such as:

• Joker
• West Side Story
• The Many Saints of Newark
• The Equalizer

Upcoming blockbusters like Mortal Kombat 2 and The Bluff are choosing New Jersey as their backdrop. Netflix alone has 16 productions in the pipeline, underscoring the growing demand for the state’s resources.

Economic Ripples Across the State

The growth of the film industry is revitalizing local businesses, from catering services to transportation providers. Each production injects money into the local economy, creating jobs and opportunities in related sectors.

Jon Crowley, Executive Director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, summed it up:
“New Jersey’s commitment to the film industry is not just about bringing productions here; it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem that supports jobs, fosters innovation, and promotes economic growth.”

The Future Looks Bright

With an expanding network of soundstages, some of the country’s most competitive tax incentives, and a dedicated push to foster local talent, New Jersey is cementing its place as a global production hub.

For filmmakers, producers, and soundstage operators, the Garden State offers the perfect combination of resources, talent, and opportunity. New Jersey isn’t just embracing its cinematic heritage—it’s building the future of film and television.

Lights, camera, action: the world is watching New Jersey.

 

CALLING ALL WANNA-BE MOVIE STARS! https://theridgewoodblog.net/calling-all-wanna-be-movie-stars/ #invest ,#Wefunder #startupfunding, #venturecapital, #crowdfunding, #fundmystartup, #investinstartups, #startupinvesting, #fundraising, #startuplife, #startupcommunity, #startupgrind, #investmentopportunity