Stepping out of New York’s Shadow; Why Newark is a Rising Star in Film and Television Production
Newark, New Jersey, long overlooked for the history, glitz and glamor of neighboring New York City, is rapidly emerging as a favored destination for filmmakers.
Thanks to a combination of attractive state tax incentives, unique urban landscapes, logistical advantages, and a burgeoning creative community, Newark is not just competing with New York - it's starting to steal the spotlight.
We dive further into the reasons why below, and take a closer look at the successful productions which have recently called Newark home.
A Competitive Alternative to New York City
While New York City offers iconic scenery, its busy environment, high costs, and operational complexities can be challenging for film crews.
Newark presents a compelling alternative with its own unique backdrops - the historic architecture of the Newark Public Library, contemporary skyline views from Riverfront Park, and the industrial streets and warehouses of the Ironbound district.
Newark allows for easier access without the associated costs and complications of a city like Manhattan, making it an ideal stand-in for urban settings in movies and TV shows.
Although only a mere ten miles away, Newark is also less saturated with filming projects compared to the Big Apple, which means less bureaucratic red tape and more freedom for creative expression. This relative flexibility can be incredibly valuable when scheduling tight shooting timelines.
And the aesthetic benefits are not limited to Newark alone. You’ll find diverse shooting locations throughout the Garden State, from the serene beaches of Cape May and Long Beach Island to the bustling boardwalks of Asbury Park and Seaside Heights, as well as the vast natural ecosystems of the Meadowlands and Pine Barrens.
With generally mild weather, varied topography and excellent transport links, you can see why New Jersey is a location scout’s dream.
Robust Tax Incentives
One of the primary drivers of Newark's ascent in the film industry is the aggressive tax incentive program offered by the state of New Jersey.
The Garden State provides a transferable credit of up to 35% on qualified production expenses incurred in the state.
This is significantly higher than many other states, including New York, which offers a maximum of 30%.
Moreover, New Jersey offers an additional 2% or 4% diversity bonus aimed at promoting inclusivity in film productions, both behind and in front of the camera.
These incentives have proven to be a powerful lure for production companies looking for high-quality filming locations that don't break the bank.
The financial benefits make it feasible for both big-budget blockbusters and independent films to shoot in and around Newark, boosting the local economy and providing jobs to residents.
Access to Top-Tier Talent
New Jersey and Newark also offer substantial benefits when it comes to sourcing crew members for film and television productions.
Many industry professionals reside in the area (or closeby in New York City), providing a rich pool of talent that includes everything from camera operators and set designers, to sound technicians and visual artists.
Not to mention the generations of experienced electricians, builders, carpenters and mechanics who have long called Newark home.
Local colleges such as Rutgers University-Newark and the New Jersey Institute of Technology contribute to a steady stream of fresh graduates equipped with the latest technical skills and creative ideas.
Employing local crew members supports the community and can further enhance the economic impact of a production, fostering goodwill, and easing the logistics of local cooperation and permissions.
Combined with an extremely supportive Motion Picture and Television Commission, the area is becoming a hotbed of creative talent.
State and City Assistance
In an effort to establish themselves as premier filming destinations, New Jersey and the city of Newark are actively bolstering their support for media projects.
Netflix has recently embarked on a $900 million studio project in Monmouth County, whilst Lionsgate has broken ground on a 350,000 square foot complex billed as the first purpose-built studio in New Jersey to be constructed for TV and film production using tax credits.
In Bergen Point, plans for the largest ground-up studio complex in North America have recently been approved.
Hollywood’s biggest names are running, not walking, to build in New Jersey.
The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission plays a pivotal role with support on the ground by offering comprehensive services that include facilitating location scouting, providing logistical assistance, and navigating local regulations.
The Commission’s ‘Film Ready New Jersey’ initiative has been devised to help “prepare communities to accommodate movie and television producers and effectively market themselves as film destinations”.
By educating and connecting local councils, small businesses, and industry professionals, the Commission aims to ensure productions are as seamless and as successful as possible.
These efforts are clearly paying off.
A Growing Library of Productions in New Jersey
New Jersey's filmography is becoming increasingly impressive.
Recent examples include the critically acclaimed "The Many Saints of Newark," a prequel to the iconic HBO series "The Sopranos" (also filmed in New Jersey), which utilized many of Newark’s streets to recreate the movie’s 1960s and ‘70s era setting.
The billion dollar grossing "Joker" transformed parts of Newark into a gritty version of Gotham City, whilst Spielberg’s West Side Story was shot across several New Jersey towns, including Newark.
Further afield, the multiple award winning Apple TV show “Severance” was filmed at The Bell Labs Holmdel Complex in Monmouth County.
A rise in professional studios, often disused, refurbished buildings from New Jersey’s industrial roots, is attracting further talent.
ODR Studios, a converted transformer factory from the 1920s has welcomed an eclectic array of productions and community events since opening its doors in 2017.
“Jules”, a feature film starring Ben Kingsley, was shot at ODR. As were episodes of the hugely successful “American Horror Stories” for FX. Dua Lipa and J. Balvin have created hit music videos in the warehouse, whilst outlets like Vogue and CBS Sports have produced documentaries, demonstrating the epic versatility of these former industrial locations.
With plenty of productions on the horizon, the future looks very bright for film and TV in the Garden State.
A Cultural Melting Pot on the Rise
The narrative of Newark and New Jersey is changing.
No longer just a backdrop for New York-centric stories, Newark is coming into its own as a cultural and artistic hub.
The local government's commitment to enhancing the city’s infrastructure and public services has made it more attractive not only for filmmakers but also for artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs.
Moreover, the state’s investment in arts and cultural projects, alongside the growth of local film festivals and events, nurtures a vibrant community that supports and celebrates cinematic endeavors.
Neighborhoods such as the Ironbound in Newark stand out as an exceptional location for filming, offering a rich tapestry of historical and architectural elements.
Known for its eclectic Portuguese, Spanish, and Brazilian communities, the Ironbound fosters a unique European vibe with busy streets lined with quaint shops, authentic restaurants, and colorful murals.
The neighborhood provides a dynamic backdrop that can mimic international locales or serve as an intriguing setting in its own right.
Its accessibility, coupled with the charm of old-world aesthetics mixed with urban grit, makes the Ironbound and studios like ODR a highly desirable spot for filmmakers seeking a location that delivers both visual appeal and a distinctive atmosphere.
A City Setting New Standards
Newark’s combination of financial incentives, diverse filming locations, talented workforce, accessible transport links, and a growing list of professional studios, makes it an increasingly popular choice for filmmakers.
As the city continues to develop and gain recognition, it establishes itself not merely as an alternative to New York but as a bright star in its own right.
Artistic and community hubs like ODR Studios are at the center of this renaissance, providing versatile, curated environments in which to network, collaborate and create visual magic.
And with each project completed, Newark continues to show that it’s not just punching above its weight; it's setting a new standard for what a city can offer to the entertainment industry.