Hunterdon County (NJ) Shines as New Jerseys Film Scene Gains Major Momentum

Echo Valley and Happy Gilmore 2, filmed in Hunterdon County, are debuting on Apple TV+ and Netflix, highlighting the county’s booming film scene

FLEMINGTON, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lights, camera… Hunterdon County! This summer, Hunterdon County takes center stage in two major film releases, solidifying its rising status as one of New Jersey’s – and among the country’s most film-friendly destinations.

On Friday, June 13, Echo Valley, starring Julianne Moore and Sydney Sweeney, debuted on Apple TV+. The film was shot almost entirely in Hunterdon County, with cast and crew praising the area’s scenic beauty and, more importantly, its exceptional support for production teams. Plum Broke Farm in Delaware Township served as the film’s main location while other scenes were shot in Lambertville. The crew stayed at the Chimney Hill Estate Inn and dined at Seargentsville Inn.

On Wednesday, July 25, the highly anticipated Happy Gilmore 2 – the sequel to the blockbuster cult classic – will premiere on Netflix.

With a dedicated film commission and promotional website housed within the Department of Economic Development & Tourism, Hunterdon County has laid the groundwork for sustainable entertainment industry growth. These high-profile projects are the result of years of thoughtful investment by Hunterdon County to position itself as a top-tier filming location. Likewise, officials say both of these productions have had a strong and lasting economic impact on the area.

Clinton Mayor Janice Kovach, who also serves on the New Jersey State Film Commission, is the film commission chair and stated that the county has also created sizzle reels, hosted site tours for location scouts, and actively promoted its unique blend of small-town charm and production readiness. County commissioners say they’ll continue to support the push.

“From permitting to on-the-ground logistics, Hunterdon County delivered,” commented Commissioner John Lanza, “From day one, our message to filmmakers has been clear: if you want to shoot in Hunterdon County, we’ll make it work – and make it seamless.”

We are drafting a wish list of content inclusions that are ideal and would like to offset the cost with the rooms trade. Once we can place a dollar value on the rooms/F&B credit, I’ll supply our list of content items for them to place value on.

The result is an increasingly busy production calendar, with Hunterdon County not just making cameos but playing lead roles. The County is on track to join Clinton and several other municipalities in earning the NJ Film Ready certification.

As New Jersey’s film industry continues to boom – at one point recently leading the nation in total production – Hunterdon County is not only keeping pace, it’s setting a tone: creative, cooperative, and open for filming. Past film projects in the county include I Am Legend, As Good As It Gets, and Turbulence.

With scenic backdrops ranging from rolling farmland to picturesque main streets, and a local team known for making production smooth and seamless, it’s no surprise the spotlight is turning to Hunterdon County. For filmmakers seeking their next perfect scene, this county is ready for action.

Contacts

Media
Autumn Enoch

Percepture

aenoch@percepture.com