The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), operating under the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), has designated 19 municipalities and two counties as Film Ready Communities after they completed the Film Ready New Jersey Program. The program is designed to help communities prepare for film and television production, allowing them to market themselves more effectively as destinations for filmmakers.
Tim Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of NJEDA, said, “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. 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 newly named Film Ready Communities are 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 Township in Monmouth County (not specified if other Ocean Townships were included), Sparta Township in Sussex County (again not specified if others were included), Union Township in Union County (not specified if others were included), along with Hunterdon and Salem Counties. With these additions to those announced earlier in March 2024—bringing the total number of certified locations to 43—New Jersey continues its efforts to become a prominent site for media production.
Jon Crowley, Executive Director of NJMPTVC stated: “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. 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.”
Recent productions have showcased various areas throughout New Jersey. For example, “A Complete Unknown,” an Academy Award-nominated film shot scenes in 17 different municipalities statewide. Locations such as Hoboken served as stand-ins for other major U.S. cities; notable buildings like Elizabeth’s Ritz Theatre represented Carnegie Hall while Newark Symphony Hall stood in for a San Francisco concert venue.
The Film Ready certification process involves five steps focusing on education about motion picture and television production fundamentals as well as establishing standards aimed at attracting filmmaking activity. Workshops run by NJMPTVC include input from industry professionals alongside guidance from local officials. These sessions cover topics such as local ordinances related to filming permits and ways hosting productions can impact small businesses or contribute toward building out local infrastructure.
An upcoming workshop is scheduled during the League of Municipalities event in Atlantic City on November 18th.
The NJMPTVC serves as a resource for companies seeking information about filming opportunities within New Jersey.
More details can be found at www.film.nj.gov.
