Paterson's Historic Mill Set to Become a Film Studio Hub

A historic mill building in Paterson, New Jersey, is set to undergo a major transformation. The building, known as Reinhardt Mills or Boris Kroll Mills, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Filmology Labs, a company founded by Alan Mruvka, plans to turn it into a film studio. The studio will have 21 separate stages. These stages will have different sets, like a jail, courthouse, restaurant, bar, business office, kitchen, and bedroom. Two rooms will be flexible and can be changed to fit the needs of different production crews. The project will cost $250 million and will be done in phases over the next three years. Mruvka hopes to open some filming spaces by the start of summer. However, the studio has not yet submitted any formal plans or construction applications with the city. The city's economic development director, Tiffany Harris-Delaney, said the project is still in the early stages. She added that it would be premature to discuss specific approvals, timelines, or permitting needs.Mruvka said most of the $250 million will go towards equipping the building for film production. This includes things like LED volume walls and sound-proofing, not just brick and mortar renovations. Construction is also starting on two other film studios in North Jersey. Lionsgate is in the southern part of Newark, and 1888 Studios is along the Kill Van Kull in Bayonne. Mruvka said his plans for Paterson are different. His studio will have smaller content creation studios. At Filmology Labs, production crews can reserve multiple stages to fit their film. Several projects can go on at the same time. Mruvka said, "If you need a jail, a courtroom and an office, we can give it to you. " Mruvka has a background in the entertainment industry and real estate. He saw the Paterson mill many times while driving along Route 80. He said, "I always said to myself, 'I would love to own a building like that. '" When he learned that the building went up for sale about a year ago, he took the steps to buy it. He said, "When you're standing in the courtyard, you feel like you're in Manchester, England. "