6 minute read
What's Next For Film in Jersey?
BY JULIA VENTRONE
Despite being on the opposite coast from the capital of film, New Jersey has plenty of filming locations that have made their mark. From award-winning television to popular cult classics, you can visit and relive some of your favorite scenes at these stops. The Garden State has claimed the coveted title as the birthplace of film, with some of the first production studios established in Fort Lee, right across the Hudson River from Manhattan.
So, if you are a film buff or a TV connoisseur, check out some of the most recognizable filming locations right here in NJ.
MOVIE LOCATIONS IN NEW JERSEY
The Godfather: Part III (1990)
The Golden Nugget, Atlantic City Formerly known as Trump Marina, this hotel was the set for the planned fictional massacre against Don Corleone in the trilogy finale.
The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Military Park Station, Newark
Light Rail, Paterson
Back in 2011, this train station was used as part of Gotham City for a Batman and Catwoman fight sequence.
West Side Story (2020)
Ellison Street & Veterans Place, Paterson
For all the musical theatre fans out there, you can visit the streets of Paterson, where Steven Spielberg shot his remake of the classic “West Side Story” on Ellison Street and Veterans Place, including scenes using a redesigned William Paterson University building, according to The Patch.
Friday the 13th (1980)
Camp NoBeBoSco (AKA Camp Crystal Lake), Hardwick
Reenact your favorite scenes from the cult classic with Crystal Lake Tours, taking you to Camp NoBeBoSco in Hardwick.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)
Ramapo Lake, Oakland
Visit Ramapo Lake, where they shot the earlier wilderness scenes in the sequel to “The Hunger Games” franchise. This is where Katniss Everdeen reckons with the trauma she faced in the games during the opening scene.
Annie (1982)
The Great Hall at Shadow Lawn, Monmouth University
In the 1982 version of “Annie,” the Great Hall at Shadow Lawn was the set for Daddy Warbucks’ mansion. Today, the university uses it for admission offices, study spaces, and even a chapel, according to Monmouth University. You can visit it for scene refreshers, including the grand finale scene at the fountain.
Oppenheimer (2023)
Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton
During the filming of the 2024 Best Picture winner “Oppenheimer,” director Christopher Nolan used the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton for critical scenes. During the 1950s, J. Robert Oppenheimer served as director of the Institute, making the set historically accurate for the scenes shot there. The conversation between Oppenheimer and Albert Einstein by the pond on the grounds took place at a spot that was built during Oppenheimer’s directorship, according to the Institute for Advanced Study.
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Princeton University, Princeton
“Oppenheimer” wasn’t the only Best Picture winner to be filmed in Princeton. “A Beautiful Mind” tells the story of mathematician John Nash and his days at Princeton University. The film was primarily shot at Rockefeller College and Holder Hall, according to visitprinceton.org.
TV LOCATIONS IN NEW JERSEY
Severance (2022)
Bell Works, Holmdel
Shot in Holmdel, the Apple TV+ hit show used Bell Works as the backdrop for the fictional corporation, Lumon Industries.
With plain white hallways you could get lost in and contemporary architecture to admire, it was the perfect place for this eerie drama.
In April this year, Bell Works was transformed into the set of “Severance” for a surprise pop-up event, including a panel moderated by Stephen Colbert, with director Ben Stiller, cast members Adam Scott and Britt Lower, and others.
Jersey Shore (2009)
Seaside Heights
Whether you love it or hate it, let’s be honest, you can’t look away.
“The Jersey Shore” put Seaside Heights on the map and the iconic house remains. If you’re looking for a night away, did you know the house with the infamous duck phone is even available for rentals?
The Sopranos (1999)
North Caldwell & Bloomfield
The iconic Soprano household is located in North Caldwell, according to Frommer’s. Although it is privately owned, you can drive through the area and visit other locations, such as Holsten’s Ice Cream in Bloomfield, where some of the final scenes of the series were filmed.
Ms. Marvel (2022)
Jersey City
Kamala Khan, who also goes by Ms. Marvel, has strong ties to her hometown of Jersey City. The limited series showcases many spots in Jersey City including Journal Square, Liberty State Park, the waterfront, and more, according to NorthJersey.com.
Boardwalk Empire (2010)
Atlantic City
“Boardwalk Empire” follows the story of Nucky Thompson during the Prohibition era in Atlantic City. According to Giggster, during the pilot episode, there’s a scene filmed at the Knife & Fork Inn, a real Atlantic City restaurant that opened its doors in 1912, but even today you can still grab a bite to eat and see the Prohibition-era-inspired artwork.
NETFLIX IN NEW JERSEY
Although still in the early stages of development, with so many creatives living in nearby cities like Philadelphia and New York City, it’s no wonder Netflix decided to open a studio right in the center of New Jersey.
Located in Fort Monmouth, about ten minutes from the closest beach and roughly an hour and a half from both Philadelphia and New York City, this former Army installation will be transformed into a film lot with 12 sound stages and additional production support, according to netflixnewjersey.com.
Netflix is already giving back to the community that’s welcoming them by supporting nonprofits like Fulfill FoodBank, Soldier On, and JBJ Soul Kitchen.
Local businesses are also excited about the development and hope it will attract new faces to the area.
“Naturally, people have questions about logistics, timelines, and how the township will manage growth, but there’s a real sense of excitement. I’ve had several conversations with other business owners, and most are actively thinking about how to position themselves to take advantage of the increased traffic, visibility, and economic activity this will bring,” said Scott Marchakitus, CEO of The Fort Athletic Club.
Marchakitus sees the project as an amazing opportunity not only for businesses but for the town as a whole.
“This project has the potential to serve as a major economic catalyst for the area. It will bring new jobs, housing demand, and new businesses to the region. The influx of professionals and families can create positive momentum for schools, restaurants, shops, and our fitness club! Overall, we believe this is a once-in-ageneration opportunity that can elevate the entire region if executed properly,” said Marchakitus.
He even sees potential for new fitness programs tailored to the creative professionals the studio is expected to draw.
The Garden State’s connection to the film and television industry is strong, and this new Netflix studio promises to solidify New Jersey’s role as a major East Coast production hub, bringing jobs, investment, and fresh creative energy to the region.
Move over, Hollywood, there’s a new player in town!
