Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy held a reception in Toronto to honor seven productions filmed in New Jersey that are premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The films, shot across Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, and Union counties, include Americano, Millers in Marriage, Presence, Relay, Riff Raff, Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, and The Room Next Door.

Governor Murphy expressed pride in the productions stating: “I congratulate the seven New Jersey-filmed productions that are screening at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. We are proud of all the producers, directors, actors, and crews who had a part in making these tremendous films.” He emphasized efforts to attract filmmakers to New Jersey since taking office by reinstating and expanding the Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program.

The tax credit program offers 30-35 percent incentives for film and television productions with additional benefits for those with approved diversity plans. This initiative has spurred growth in New Jersey's film industry. In 2022 alone, production spending surpassed $650 million compared to $500 million the previous year. The sector also created over 8,500 jobs last year. Studios such as Netflix and Lionsgate are currently developing facilities within the state.

Tim Sullivan from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority highlighted the state's appeal: “New Jersey’s film industry has grown tremendously under Governor Murphy’s leadership... When productions come to New Jersey, they create good-paying jobs.”

Wesley Mathews of Choose New Jersey added: “The seven productions being honored at the Toronto International Film Festival prove that New Jersey is not only the best place to raise a family but also the best place to film.”

Jon Crowley from the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission noted that having several productions screened at TIFF shows significant momentum for local filmmaking.

Producers Aaron Lubin & Ellen Schwartz praised their experience filming "Millers in Marriage" in New Jersey: “Besides the outstanding cast & crew... Shooting here is a producer's dream.”

For more information on economic ties between New Jersey and Canada related to this mission, reporters can contact Mahen Gunaratna or Ingrid Austin or visit choosenj.com/CanadaMission.