Film Ready New Jersey Program prepares municipalities and counties across the state for film and television production
The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), part of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), announced that 19 municipalities and two counties have been designated as Film Ready Communities following completion of the Film Ready New Jersey Program. The Program prepares communities to accommodate movie and television producers and effectively market themselves as film destinations, bolstering the state’s standing as a national leader in film and television production.
“From the Jersey Shore to the Pine Barrens, and from vibrant cities to quiet suburban neighborhoods, New Jersey offers a remarkable variety of landscapes that meet the diverse needs of film and television productions,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has reestablished itself as a premier destination for the industry — creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and driving meaningful economic growth in communities across the state. Through the Film Ready New Jersey Program, municipalities are better positioned to welcome and support productions of every scale, from big-budget blockbusters to independent films.”
The new Film Ready Communities announced today include Atlantic City, Bridgewater, Carteret, Clinton Town, East Brunswick, Florence Township, Gloucester Township, Guttenberg, Keyport, Leonia, Little Silver, Livingston, Maplewood, Moorestown, Mount Holly, New Providence, Ocean, Sparta, and Union Township, as well as Hunterdon and Salem Counties. Along with the state’s first cohort announced in March 2024, New Jersey now has 43 Film Ready Communities.
“The NJMPTVC has built consistency into the Film Ready program so when studios or networks bring projects to New Jersey, Film Ready localities are prepared for any opportunity that may arise,” said NJMPTVC Executive Director Jon Crowley. “As the Garden State continues to break records in film and television production, initiatives like Film Ready exemplify the state’s commitment to ensuring towns and counties across the state share in the industry’s immense economic benefits.”
The Academy Award-nominated film A Complete Unknown showcased the vast diversity of New Jersey communities. The movie filmed in 17 municipalities across the state, with notable scenes filmed in Hoboken, Jersey City, Paterson, and Cape May. In the film, New Jersey doubles as New York City, Pittsburgh, Rhode Island, Washington D.C., and Northern California. Buildings such as the Ritz Theatre in Elizabeth doubled as Carnegie Hall and the Newark Symphony Hall doubled as a San Francisco concert venue.
Film Ready New Jersey is a 5-step certification and marketing program that educates municipalities on the basics of motion picture and television production and sets basic standards for attracting filmmaking. The NJMPTVC’s Film Ready Workshops provide training and guidance from industry professionals, local mayors, and NJMPTVC Commissioners and staff, covering topics such as the economic impact of hosting on-location filming, ordinances and permitting, opportunities for small businesses, and expanding film infrastructure.
