New Jersey’s Film Explosion: Studios, Productions, and the Rise of East Coast Hollywood in 2026. New Jersey has solidified its position as one of the nation’s fastest-growing film production hubs, hitting unprecedented levels of activity that are reshaping the state’s economy, culture, and skyline. In 2025, production spending across the Garden State reached a record $850 million, signaling not just a temporary surge but the start of a long-term transformation. This momentum has carried into 2026, with high-profile projects, new studio construction, and sprawling redevelopment initiatives turning New Jersey into a true East Coast equivalent of Hollywood.

At the center of this boom is the construction of state-of-the-art production facilities. In Newark, work is underway on a new Lionsgate studio complex, designed to host multiple soundstages, production offices, and support facilities capable of accommodating blockbuster films and series alike. Bayonne is emerging as another key production hub, with a massive studio campus rising along the waterfront, while Fort Monmouth in Eatontown and Oceanport is being converted into a fully integrated studio ecosystem. These developments are not only attracting major Hollywood talent but also providing thousands of jobs for local crew, technicians, and support staff.

2026 promises a remarkable slate of productions across the state. Sing Song Blue, starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson with a cameo from Eddie Vedder, is among the year’s most anticipated films, blending New Jersey’s urban landscapes and scenic coastlines into its narrative. 72 Hours, featuring Kevin Hart, Teyana Taylor, and Zach Cherry, continues filming in North Jersey, while Little Brother, a Netflix comedy with John Cena and Eric André, wraps production after utilizing suburban neighborhoods and local landmarks. High-profile dramas like Here Comes the Flood, starring Denzel Washington and Robert Pattinson, are also taking advantage of Hoboken, Jersey City, and Newark’s diverse architecture. Even smaller-scale indie projects are flourishing, with filmmakers drawn to the state’s tax incentives, versatile locations, and growing pool of experienced local crews.

This expansion isn’t limited to new productions. Longstanding film traditions in New Jersey are being reinforced, with past projects like American Summer, Paper Tiger, and Happy Gilmore 2 demonstrating the state’s adaptability for everything from high-octane comedies to dramatic thrillers. The combination of historic downtowns, industrial backdrops, suburban charm, and picturesque shorelines allows filmmakers to replicate virtually any setting, giving the Garden State a unique edge over other production hubs.

The economic and cultural impact is significant. Productions pump millions into local economies, from hotels, catering, and transportation to equipment rentals, retail, and service industries. Towns hosting shoots benefit from increased visibility, tourism, and new employment opportunities, while audiences are drawn closer to the creative process. Communities are embracing their cinematic role, hosting screenings, festivals, and events that celebrate the growing film presence. For anyone following the intersection of media and local culture, including Explore New Jersey’s dedicated coverage of film and television, this boom reflects a broader story about how industries can reshape states while fostering creativity and economic growth.

Beyond the numbers and marquee names, the real story is New Jersey’s emergence as a sustainable, long-term production center. By combining generous tax incentives with strategic studio development and an expanding talent pool, the state is attracting top-tier projects while also nurturing the next generation of filmmakers, technicians, and storytellers. In 2026, New Jersey isn’t just hosting films; it’s defining what East Coast Hollywood looks like, cementing its role as a powerhouse where stories of every genre — from blockbuster thrillers to intimate dramas — are brought vividly to life.