Jersey City continues to cement its role as a growing hub for independent film as actor, writer, and producer Steve Lichtenstein unveils his latest short film, Never Too Late. Produced through his Jersey City-based company, Baby Boo Boo Productions LLC, the film reflects both Lichtenstein’s deep local roots and his commitment to character-driven, human-centered storytelling. The announcement of the film and a revealing interview with Xraised originated from West New York, New Jersey, on December 11, 2025, underscoring the region’s active participation in the independent film scene. For readers interested in local cinematic developments, additional coverage is available in the film & TV section on Explore New Jersey.
Never Too Late presents a compelling narrative centered on a 70-year-old asthmatic shut-in navigating a world complicated by a broken virtual assistant and the challenges of isolation. The story explores themes of human connection, resilience, and hope, reminding audiences that meaningful relationships can persist even amidst life’s disruptions. Lichtenstein describes the film as a “powerful new chapter in independent storytelling,” emphasizing authenticity, empathy, and the underdog spirit as guiding principles throughout production.
The film’s production spanned over a year of post-production, concluding in September 2025. Lichtenstein, who frequently wears multiple hats in his projects, served as both a producer and cast member, collaborating closely with director Colleen Davie Janes and other contributors to bring the story to life. The creative philosophy behind the film prioritizes collaborative trust and intimate storytelling, hallmarks of Lichtenstein’s body of work, including his earlier semi-autobiographical short, Aaron with 2 A’s, which explored a man beginning a second acting career at 65.
Although the film does not yet have scheduled local screenings, New Jersey audiences are most likely to see Never Too Late through independent film festivals such as the Montclair Film Festival, the Teaneck International Film Festival, or the New Jersey Independent Film Festival at Rutgers University. These platforms provide critical exposure for emerging filmmakers and serve as an avenue for independent storytelling to reach broader audiences, particularly in the New Jersey area. Festival participation also highlights the state’s expanding reputation as a fertile environment for diverse film projects that celebrate originality and creative experimentation.
The release of Never Too Late further distinguishes Steve Lichtenstein’s Baby Boo Boo Productions from other similarly named entities, including Boo Productions in Greece and the UK, as well as Babyboo Fashion in Australia, by emphasizing personal, locally rooted storytelling. Lichtenstein’s work underscores the potential for independent filmmakers in New Jersey to produce intimate, meaningful stories that resonate far beyond the state while simultaneously fostering a vibrant local arts and film community.
As independent film continues to grow in New Jersey, projects like Never Too Late illustrate how creators can combine personal vision, regional resources, and festival exposure to deliver work that is both socially and artistically impactful. For anyone tracking developments in the state’s cinematic landscape, Lichtenstein’s latest short represents a noteworthy addition to the independent film scene and a promising example of Jersey City’s emerging role as a center for creative production.
