Bruce Springsteen movie filmed Freehold, stars Jeremy Allen White
“Deliver Me from Nowhere,” starring Jeremy Allen White about Bruce Springsteen, filmed this early 1980s scene in downtown Freehold on Jan. 10.
From the idyllic beach towns down the Shore to the metropolitan skylines of Newark, magic can be found in every corner of New Jersey’s eclectic landscapes. It’s no wonder the Garden State is the backdrop to so many cinematic gems with topics ranging from the banality of small town melancholia to friends embarking on a treacherous expedition to obtain beloved White Castle sliders.
A wise man once said, ‘To know New Jersey is to love her,’ and for those who don’t ⸺ these 10 films might give you a glimpse into the state of endless inspiration:
Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle (2004)
This stoner cult classic comedy ropes audiences along two best friends’ late night odyssey deep into New Jersey in hopes to acquire the tantalizing offerings of White Castle. They encounter several wacky characters along the way, including a high Neil Patrick Harris and a crazed racoon.
Clerks (1994)
Clerks is the first of Kevin Smith’s many cinematic love letters to New Jersey, and we’re introduced to the iconic duo of Jay and Silent Bob. The film is a landmark in indie cinema that engages us in the hilariously crude conversations of store clerks passing time during their shifts at a convenience store in Leonardo.
Garden State (2004)
Self-discovery in your twenties can be an isolating experience, especially with baggage from childhood still weighing on your shoulders. Zach Braff’s partially autobiographical Garden State shot in his hometown of South Orange explores the mind of a man trying to get himself out of this seemingly endless emotional rut.
The Wedding Singer (1998)
Dynamic duo Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore’s explosive chemistry brings the eighties back to life in this nostalgic romantic comedy set in 1985 Ridgefield. The Wedding Singer is sure to inspire your next belt-worthy karaoke selection.
Chasing Amy (1997)
In complete Kevin Smith style, romantic comedy Chasing Amy tackled the themes of sexuality, queer identities and relationships through raunchy, outrageous yet also realistic dialogue. Although the film partially takes place in New York City, it belongs in the View Askewinverse, which is primarily centered in Monmouth County.
Jersey Boys (2014)
In a melodious blend of the theatrical and the dramatic, Jersey Boys set in Bellville introduces us to the humble beginnings of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. You might find yourself singing along to familiar tunes like ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,’ and ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’ in this adaptation of the Tony-award-winning jukebox musical of the same name.
Coneheads (1993)
A family of pointy-headed aliens fall from the planet of Remulak to suburban Paramus and listen to the Red Hot Chili Peppers in this bonkers sci-fi comedy based off of an SNL skit. Loaded with deadpan humor and stacked with comedic legends, Coneheads presents a satirical take on the American Dream.
Dogma (1999)
In Dogma we witness an angel’s fall from heaven to Red Bank in 128 minutes. The controversial film offers an ambitious perspective on organized religion wrapped up in provocative humor. The cast alone will make this film unforgettable, with singer Alanis Morisette as God and the late Alan Rickman playing a mysterious seraph.
Atlantic City (1980)
Nominated for the big five Academy Awards, Atlantic City explores a world of desire, grandeur and danger amid the boardwalks of America’s playground. The film offers a view of Atlantic City in its prime, starring Edison native Susan Sarandon as an aspiring blackjack dealer.
According to Greta (2009)
Hilary Duff portrays a rebellious teenage girl who is sent to live with her grandparents in the historic beachtown Ocean Grove for the summer. She navigates the changes of life and makes unexpected connections with members of this seaside community in this coming-of-age film.
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