Netflix-Warner is a big deal for U.S. and even bigger for N.J. | Opinion

By Eric D. Brophy

Transactions like Netflix’s merger with Warner Bros. always have a far-reaching impact, but for New Jersey’s growing film industry, the stakes are especially high.

In recent years, the state has become a production powerhouse, with over 550 shoots in 2024 adding $833 million in investment and more than 30,000 jobs to the state’s economy.

Netflix keeps working to ensure that this growth is just the beginning.

Last May, the company broke ground on its first major East Coast production hub at Fort Monmouth. When finished, it will house 12 cutting-edge soundstages totaling nearly 500,000 square feet with investments north of $1 billion.

Even before the studios are complete, Netflix is at work in the Garden State. Over the past year, they have filmed nearly 20 titles in the state, and they are currently shooting two feature films here, employing more than 500 people, both in front of and behind the cameras.

The economic gains from this kind of local production activity can be massive. The 64 days Netflix spent shooting “Happy Gilmore 2″ in the state added a whopping $153 million to New Jersey’s economy, what with 400 crew members, 400 local vendors, and 3,000 extras hired for the shoot.

And that’s just a single project. Last year, the company also filmed “The Rip,” “A House of Dynamite,” “The Beast in Me,” “Office Romance,” and “The Whisper Man,” all in New Jersey.

Netflix’s financial position and all-cash deal for the historic Warner assets will establish a well-financed, focused company positioned to grow, produce, and excel.

With Warner Bros., Netflix will be able to bring even more production, innovation, and local jobs to New Jersey.

The deal will create a host of creative and commercial opportunities that go beyond film and television workers, but expand to caterers, drivers, make-up artists, and many more industries.

But most importantly for New Jersey, the Warner Bros.’ Board of Directors approved the Netflix offer because, together, these two companies are committed to executing a stable, long-term plan to produce and distribute great shows and films.

For us, that equates to increased production in New Jersey and a thriving and prosperous film and television industry.

All of America stands to gain from the Netflix-Warner transaction.

For New Jersey, the stakes are even higher.

Calling your elected representative in the state Assembly or Senate is the most effective way to influence policy. To find your state Assembly member and Senator to voice your position, go to the New Jersey Legislature website’s Legislative Roster.

Eric D. Brophy is chair of the CSG Law Government & Regulatory Law Group and former deputy chief of staff for Economic Growth for the Murphy administration.