The opening of Netflix’s New Jersey production studio represents the ongoing shift within the American entertainment industry. The ever-rising prices and strife within Hollywood have prompted studios to expand their operations nationwide and even internationally. These new studios hope to bring in new talent that would have otherwise had these opportunities if media companies had remained in California.
For New Jersey, it is the revitalization of movie production that it has not seen since the early 20th century when film production was set before the existence of Hollywood. Unfortunately, while these studios will no doubt be a success, they will likely introduce some unintended problems in the future.
As always, the opening of massive businesses like production studios will cause an influx of people moving close by, mostly from out of state. This will cause a similar effect on city-goers moving to the suburbs during the COVID-19 pandemic, driving up the cost of living and gentrifying the existing native neighborhoods.
Additionally, this will likely expedite the development of luxury apartments instead of more affordable housing. Regardless, change is inevitable, but there are ways for companies like Netflix to make it more palatable for the existing residents.
By working with and giving back to towns and cities in the surrounding area and becoming a part of their communities, movie studios can build trust. Additionally, partnering with local schools and universities will encourage the next generation of potential filmmakers and writers to become a part of the industry.
