Netflix is making a bold move to reshape the future of filmmaking on the East Coast by breaking ground on a state-of-the-art production campus at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. This ambitious project represents a landmark $1 billion investment to transform a 292-acre former U.S. Army base into a powerhouse film and television hub unlike anything else in the region.

The Vision: Hollywood of the East

The new Netflix Studios Fort Monmouth campus will feature 12 cutting-edge soundstages, covering nearly 500,000 square feet, along with extensive backlot areas, post-production suites, and administrative offices. The site will also introduce community amenities, such as potential fitness centers, child care, and other local businesses, integrating the facility with the surrounding neighborhoods.

While the proximity to New York City gives Netflix direct access to the rich talent pool and resources of the Northeast, the New Jersey location benefits from significant state support. The project leveraged $387 million in Aspire tax credits and competitive media production incentives—up to 35% for production costs and 40% for digital post-production.These factors, combined with enthusiastic backing from local governments, helped Netflix realize this vision and outmaneuver traditional film capitals like Los Angeles.

Economic and Social Impact

Netflix’s investment is expected to be a game-changer for the Garden State. The studio complex is projected to:

• Create around 3,500 construction jobs in the short term and 1,400 permanent studio jobs once operational.
• Drive billions of dollars in economic output to New Jersey, while boosting local hospitality, retail, and service businesses.
• Deliver new educational and career pathways, especially for young filmmakers and technical talent in the area1.

New Jersey leaders, including Governor Phil Murphy, have hailed the studio as a return to the state’s roots as the “birthplace of the motion picture industry,” following the legacy of Thomas Edison. The move further solidifies New Jersey’s reputation as a hotspot for entertainment innovation.

Construction Timeline

Demolition and site preparation at Fort Monmouth began in May 2025, with a targeted opening in 2028. The first phase includes building a production campus for actors and crew, plus the first four soundstages, with the remaining infrastructure rolled out as additional approvals come in. This phased approach ensures the studio will grow alongside the region’s job market and production needs.

Rethinking Film Production

Netflix’s East Coast flagship isn’t just about size—it’s about a new model of movie-making. The company is exploring live experiences, immersive sets, and a hybrid campus concept complete with restaurants and attractions themed around signature Netflix content10. All of this signals Netflix’s commitment to not just creating content, but building a vibrant creative ecosystem.

The Big Picture

As fierce competition reshapes the streaming wars, Netflix’s investment in New Jersey is both a business decision and a cultural statement. Owning physical production facilities gives the streaming giant more control over costs, schedules, and creative output, while helping revitalize local economies and provide new opportunities for American workers.

Netflix Studios Fort Monmouth is poised to help New Jersey reclaim its status as a leading force in cinema—ushering in a new era, one blockbuster at a time.

This summer, the Newbie Film Academy Summer Camp is opening its doors to children eager to immerse themselves in the magic of movie-making. The camp provides a vibrant, hands-on environment where kids not only discover the basics of filmmaking but are given practical opportunities to develop and showcase their new talents under the guidance of experienced industry professionals.

Building Essential Skills

Campers dive straight into the filmmaking process, participating in workshops that span the entire spectrum of film production. The curriculum covers core skills such as:

• Screenwriting: Crafting stories, developing characters, and understanding structure.
• Directing and Acting: Exploring creative vision, leadership, and performance—both behind and in front of the camera.
• Cinematography: Learning to operate cameras, compose shots, and understand lighting.
• Editing and Sound Design: Using professional software to cut footage, add effects, and create polished, finished projects.
• Collaboration: Film is a team effort, so campers work in groups to bring projects to life, learning communication and teamwork along the way.

Learning by Doing

At Newbie Film Academy, learning is an active process. Kids and teens script, direct, shoot, and edit their very own short films, using real industry tools and receiving mentorship from instructors who are working filmmakers. They engage in fun challenges such as storyboarding workshops, production sprints, and even film critique sessions, where they present and discuss their work for constructive feedback. By the end of their time at camp, each participant walks away with a completed film and newfound confidence in their storytelling abilities.

Practicing for the Industry

In addition to technical skills, campers also develop crucial soft skills for the film industry—like creative problem-solving, managing production deadlines, expressing ideas effectively, and building self-confidence through public speaking and presentations. The camp experience fosters an inclusive, supportive space where every child’s perspective matters and every story deserves to be told.

A Showcase for Young Talent

The summer camp culminates in a showcase event, where families and friends are invited to screen the completed films, celebrating the creativity and hard work of all participants. This public display not only honors campers’ achievements but encourages them to continue their journey in filmmaking, inspired and prepared to take on greater creative projects in the future.

At Newbie Film Academy Summer Camp, every child gets to be a storyteller, a creator, and a member of the next generation of filmmakers—learning skills that last a lifetime and building memories along the way.

Aspiring to make a movie can feel overwhelming—especially without a Hollywood budget or insider connections. But the true secret of filmmaking isn’t about expensive equipment or red-carpet premieres. It’s about taking small, steady steps that turn creative sparks into finished films. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned storyteller, here’s how you can begin to bring your stories to life, no matter your resources.

1. Start With a Vision—But Don’t Wait for Inspiration

Many filmmakers wait for a lightning bolt of brilliance before getting started. In truth, action invites inspiration. Begin by jotting down ideas, writing quick scenes, snapping visual references, or filming test shots wherever you are. Each step, no matter how simple, fuels creativity and helps shape your vision. You’ll find that once you start, the ideas—and confidence—will grow alongside your work.

2. The Power of Collaboration

You don’t have to be a one-person film crew. A director’s main job is to clearly communicate their vision so others can shine. Trust costume designers, cinematographers, set dressers, and actors to shape your world. You aren’t expected to master every craft—just express what you’re after and let others work their magic. Filmmaking thrives on collaboration.

3. Adaptability: Your Secret Weapon

Filmmaking rarely goes exactly as planned. Maybe the weather doesn’t cooperate, or equipment fails just before a crucial scene. The most successful directors aren’t derailed by setbacks—they adapt and improvise, using surprises as creative opportunities. Often, those unscripted moments make a story unforgettable.

4. Tools and Visual References—Your Creative Compass

Words aren’t always enough to explain the movie in your mind. That’s why tools like Fram Set are so helpful: they let you organize cinematic stills by mood, lighting, or style, giving everyone a clear target. Even simple storyboards or inspiration images can spark solutions and unify your crew. Sharing visuals not only clarifies your intent, it often leads to new, unexpected discoveries on set.

5. Create—Don’t Just Dream

Legendary filmmakers often got their start making micro-budget shorts with friends. Don’t wait for permission or the “perfect” project. Shoot a thirty-second scene on your phone, experiment with editing, or record dialogue improvisations. Each small project is a step toward mastery—helping you learn pacing, storytelling, and collaboration in real time. The more you do, the more confidence and skills you build.

6. Build a Creative Family

The best movie sets feel like families, not factories. Value your cast and crew. Welcome their ideas. An actor’s suggestion or a crew member’s insight can lift your film to new heights. By fostering trust and respect, you inspire everyone to give their best—and that energy radiates onto the screen.

7. Give Back and Grow Together

Filmmaking is a shared journey, not a solo sprint. Share your experiences, mentor others, and help fellow filmmakers when you can. A supportive community is a wellspring of new opportunities, inspiration, and enduring friendships.

Summary

The secret to making movies isn’t Hollywood access—it’s choosing to act, one small step at a time. Find your creative allies, embrace the unexpected, and keep pushing forward. Use every resource, from modern platforms like Fram Set to the talent of those around you. Each small effort is a thread in the tapestry of your story.

With passion, persistence, and openness to collaboration, your movie dreams can—and will—become reality. Start today, and let your voice help shape the future of cinema.