Our core values
DIVERSE COMMUNITY
Brick City Film Center is steadfast in its commitment to inclusivity by offering training and entry-level positions in film production to individuals from diverse communities. We Fifth Season to bridge the gap between underrepresented talent and employers in Newark's inner city production industry, extending opportunities
DIVERSE COMMUNITY
Brick City Film Center is steadfast in its commitment to inclusivity by offering training and entry-level positions in film production to individuals from diverse communities. We Fifth Season to bridge the gap between underrepresented talent and employers in Newark's inner city production industry, extending opportunities to various underrepresented groups such as but not limited to women, veterans, people with disabilities, and those seeking a second chance after incarceration.
SAFETY
We prioritize rigorous safety training to ensure that every production is conducted in a Safe, Sane, and Humane manner. We educate production teams on collaborative work with local communities, emphasizing ethical and respectful practices to safeguard the wellbeing of all involved. We are equally committed to ensure the mental wellness of our casts and crews.
SUSTAINABILITY
We pledge to be exemplary stewards of the environment, partnering with local communities to promote environmental consciousness within the movie industry and providing avenues for meaningful contributions to environmental sustainability efforts.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Brick City Film Center is poised to revolutionize the movie and film industry in the Garden State by partnering with industry leaders and leveraging local resources. Through strategic collaborations with educational institutions and diverse stakeholders, we provide a seamless, one-stop solution for meeting all contrac
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Brick City Film Center is poised to revolutionize the movie and film industry in the Garden State by partnering with industry leaders and leveraging local resources. Through strategic collaborations with educational institutions and diverse stakeholders, we provide a seamless, one-stop solution for meeting all contractual, legal, and regulatory requirements. Our mission is to bridge the gap between Hollywood and New Jersey, fostering better communication and understanding while positioning New Jersey as a premier destination for filmmakers. With Brick City Film Center, the synergy of creativity and collaboration will transform the Garden State into a thriving hub for the film industry.
Why do we operate in New Jersey?
- Tax Incentive - 30-35% TAX CREDIT, +2% or 4% DIVERSITY BONUS
- Lionsgate - Newark
- Netflix - Fort Monmouth
- Studio 1888 - Bayonne
- More workforce in the state.
- Getting underrepresented groups into the field: women, minorities, people with disabilities, retired servicemen, and people with criminal pasts (Including Christians).
- Will be open to all based on qualification - Everyone deserves opportunity.
- 4 Seasons - Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.
- Many celebrities are born in New Jersey (Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, .etc.)
Why are films coming to New Jersey?
"The program (New Jersey Film & Digital Media Tax Credit Program) will incentivize an additional $100M in tax credits for New Jersey film-lease partners who have committed to long-term leases or acquisitions of New Jersey production facilities" - Entertainment Partners
"NJ Motion Picture & Television Commission estimates the film and television industry has created nearly 9,000 permanent jobs in New Jersey, plus scores of part-time and temporary jobs for everyone from actors to electricians and carpenters, and production technicians" - TAPinto
CARTERET – On the drawing board is a 1.2 million-square-foot film studio in a 15-story multi-use complex with state-of-the art production support services; retail stores and office space; a 120-suite hotel; a restaurant pavilion; rooftop amenities like a pool and lounge, and parking for 1,100 vehicles.
JERSEY CITY – Cinelease Studios, in t
CARTERET – On the drawing board is a 1.2 million-square-foot film studio in a 15-story multi-use complex with state-of-the art production support services; retail stores and office space; a 120-suite hotel; a restaurant pavilion; rooftop amenities like a pool and lounge, and parking for 1,100 vehicles.
JERSEY CITY – Cinelease Studios, in the Craven Point section, is now doubling the number of its three existing sound stages that opened in 2021.
KEARNY – Already open for business here are two new film production studios, “Palisade Stages” and “10 Basin Studios,” both in the Kearny Point Business Center.
NEWARK – Under construction is “Great Point Studios,” a $125 million six-soundstage facility in the city’s South Ward. It is being developed by Lionsgate Entertainment, in partnership with the N.J. Performing Arts Center and TV–film producer Robert Halmi.
OCEANPORT – Netflix is behind a major $848 million studio, with 12 soundstages and a backlot, at the former Fort Monmouth Army base.
WEST ORANGE – The newest-approved film–TV production facility got a green light from West Orange officials on April 10th. Planned are cutting-edge studios on 12-acres near downtown’s historic Thomas Edison National Park. Built by Monroe-based Matrix Development Group, the facility will have up to six soundstages, parking for up to 400 cars and 60 trucks, and provide up to 600 new full-time jobs." - TAPinto
Daniel Simon - Co Founder
Daniel Simon is a dynamic professional whose career bridges the worlds of entertainment and safety with purpose and precision. He began his journey at Disney-ABC Television, gaining foundational experience before joining NBC Sports & Olympics, where he played a key role in supporting at-home operations for major productions.
Daniel's pass
Daniel Simon is a dynamic professional whose career bridges the worlds of entertainment and safety with purpose and precision. He began his journey at Disney-ABC Television, gaining foundational experience before joining NBC Sports & Olympics, where he played a key role in supporting at-home operations for major productions.
Daniel's passion for production safety flourished during his work with Vigilant EHS Solutions and Fifth Season Entertainment. There, he partnered with industry-leading safety experts and film executives to protect the well-being of cast and crews on high-profile television and film sets, both domestically and abroad.
A proud native of Haiti, Daniel remains deeply committed to his heritage through his involvement with Haitian-led organizations, most notably 4 Ekselans, a nonprofit dedicated to cultivating future leaders in Jacmel, Haiti. His dedication to community service is rooted in a lifelong mission to empower underrepresented and low-income communities with meaningful opportunities.
Daniel holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Rutgers University and a Master’s Degree in Occupational Health and Safety Engineering from NJIT. His unique blend of industry experience, cultural pride, and academic achievement continues to drive impactful work at the intersection of entertainment, safety, and service.
Bradley Kohn
Andrea Fant-Hobbs - Executive Director of Operations, Marketing & Strategic Partnerships
John J. Corcoran
Daniel Simon is a dynamic professional whose career bridges the worlds of entertainment and safety with purpose and precision. He began his journey at Disney-ABC Television, gaining foundational experience before joining NBC Sports & Olympics, where he played a key role in supporting at-home operations for major productions.
Daniel's pass
Daniel Simon is a dynamic professional whose career bridges the worlds of entertainment and safety with purpose and precision. He began his journey at Disney-ABC Television, gaining foundational experience before joining NBC Sports & Olympics, where he played a key role in supporting at-home operations for major productions.
Daniel's passion for production safety flourished during his work with Vigilant EHS Solutions and Fifth Season Entertainment. There, he partnered with industry-leading safety experts and film executives to protect the well-being of cast and crews on high-profile television and film sets, both domestically and abroad.
A proud native of Haiti, Daniel remains deeply committed to his heritage through his involvement with Haitian-led organizations, most notably 4 Ekselans, a nonprofit dedicated to cultivating future leaders in Jacmel, Haiti. His dedication to community service is rooted in a lifelong mission to empower underrepresented and low-income communities with meaningful opportunities.
Daniel holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Rutgers University and a Master’s Degree in Occupational Health and Safety Engineering from NJIT. His unique blend of industry experience, cultural pride, and academic achievement continues to drive impactful work at the intersection of entertainment, safety, and service.
John J. Corcoran
Andrea Fant-Hobbs - Executive Director of Operations, Marketing & Strategic Partnerships
John J. Corcoran
John is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in strategic business development across the nonprofit and healthcare sectors. Since 1992, he has also been a career coach, leveraging his expertise in business development and sales to guide clients from senior executives to new graduates.
John is a frequent speaker, event emce
John is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in strategic business development across the nonprofit and healthcare sectors. Since 1992, he has also been a career coach, leveraging his expertise in business development and sales to guide clients from senior executives to new graduates.
John is a frequent speaker, event emcee, and panel moderator, known for his ability to keep events engaging and on track. He is the founder of Merritt Walsh Associates, LLC, and Corcoran Career Coaching. His notable past roles include Senior Vice President of External Relations, COO, and Interim CEO at Pascack Valley Hospital, where he led the Foundation through a successful transition and capital campaign.
He serves on several nonprofit boards, including the Commerce and Industry Association of NJ, Immaculate Heart Academy, and Street2Street Inner City Basketball, and is a member of the Merrill Lynch Advisory Council for nonprofits. John’s diverse experience and strategic insight have helped numerous organizations achieve their goals. He graduated from William Paterson University.
Andrea Fant-Hobbs - Executive Director of Operations, Marketing & Strategic Partnerships
Andrea Fant-Hobbs - Executive Director of Operations, Marketing & Strategic Partnerships
Andrea Fant-Hobbs - Executive Director of Operations, Marketing & Strategic Partnerships
Andrea Fant-Hobbs is a dynamic marketing leader with over 25 years of vast and deep experience developing and implementing transformational brand marketing, multi-media strategies and advertising for the world’s leading brands.
Her career began as an on-air co-host and producer for the ABC TV affiliate in Syracuse. She returned to New Yor
Andrea Fant-Hobbs is a dynamic marketing leader with over 25 years of vast and deep experience developing and implementing transformational brand marketing, multi-media strategies and advertising for the world’s leading brands.
Her career began as an on-air co-host and producer for the ABC TV affiliate in Syracuse. She returned to New York city to work on the advertising agency side of the business as VP Group Account Director for financial services, consumer products, and automotive clients. Andrea transitioned to the client side of the business as VP Brand Marketing, Media Advertising and Sponsorships. Working with Fortune 50 brands, and world-class directors, producers and production companies, she led the creation of award-winning television commercials, multimedia advertising, and brand campaigns.
Shannon Castleman - Curriculum Advisor
Andrea Fant-Hobbs - Executive Director of Operations, Marketing & Strategic Partnerships
Andrea Fant-Hobbs - Executive Director of Operations, Marketing & Strategic Partnerships
Shannon is an artist,/photographer, and educator with an extensive international teaching and exhibition history. Since 2012, she has been an adjunct professor in the Department of Photography and Film at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).
From 2006 to 2013, she was an assistant professor of Photography and Digital Imaging at Nanyang
Shannon is an artist,/photographer, and educator with an extensive international teaching and exhibition history. Since 2012, she has been an adjunct professor in the Department of Photography and Film at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).
From 2006 to 2013, she was an assistant professor of Photography and Digital Imaging at Nanyang Technological University's School of Art, Design, and Media in Singapore, where she was a founding faculty member of Southeast Asia’s first BFA program, co-created the Photography & Digital Imaging curriculum, and designed the 4-D foundations curriculum.
Prior to that, she taught photography at Dar Al Hekma College, a women’s college in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from 2004 to 2006. She also served as visiting faculty in Interdisciplinary Studies at the San Francisco Art Institute, leading courses in Vietnam (2013) and Cuba (2016).
Her photography has been exhibited in museums and galleries across the United States, Asia, and Europe. A native Richmonder who spent nearly a decade helping to develop art communities abroad, Shannon brings a unique perspective and contagious enthusiasm to Oakwood Arts.
Nikki Taylor-Roberts
Nikki Taylor-Roberts
Nikki Taylor-Roberts
Nikki Taylor-Roberts is a screenwriter, director, and Emmy-nominated producer. As a recipient of the inaugural Proof of Concept Initiative, led by Cate Blanchett, She directed the horror short Go to Bed, Raymond! for Bite Size Halloween (20th/Hulu) and episodes of Chicago Med for NBC. She was selected for the HBO reboot of Project Greenli
Nikki Taylor-Roberts is a screenwriter, director, and Emmy-nominated producer. As a recipient of the inaugural Proof of Concept Initiative, led by Cate Blanchett, She directed the horror short Go to Bed, Raymond! for Bite Size Halloween (20th/Hulu) and episodes of Chicago Med for NBC. She was selected for the HBO reboot of Project Greenlight, produced by Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani, and is one of four female writer-directors behind Season 1 of BET HER’s original series The Waiting Room.
A Columbia University MFA Film alum, she was a fellow in Ryan Murphy’s Half Initiative, the AFI Directing Workshop for Women, the Sony Television Diverse Directors Program, and Almanack Screenwriters. She was also featured in a FREE THE WORK Creator Spotlight. Her work has screened in competition at Festival de Cannes, Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Sundance, Austin Film Festival, Cleveland International Film Festival, HollyShorts, and Urbanworld.
Huriyyah Muhammad
Nikki Taylor-Roberts
Nikki Taylor-Roberts
Huriyyah is an award-winning director, writer and producer whose projects have been invited to the Sundance Film Festival, Tribeca Film Institute, Outfest, Newfest, AFI, Austin Film Festival, New Voices in Black Cinema, American Black Film Festival and selected by The Criterion Collection. Huriyyah is an NAACP Image Award Nominee, the 202
Huriyyah is an award-winning director, writer and producer whose projects have been invited to the Sundance Film Festival, Tribeca Film Institute, Outfest, Newfest, AFI, Austin Film Festival, New Voices in Black Cinema, American Black Film Festival and selected by The Criterion Collection. Huriyyah is an NAACP Image Award Nominee, the 2024 HBO Short Film Competition Winner, a 2024 SeriesFest Winner, a Sundance Creative Producing Award Winner, and an alum of the prestigious AFI Directing Workshop for Women (DWW) and the Film Independent Episodic Directing Intensive.
Huriyyah’s directing projects invites audiences to take the journey with her as she tackles tough subjects – death, divorce, eviction – with humor and heart. Huriyyah’s sci-fi digital series, KELOID, has become a cult favorite – winning at multiple festivals. Her fantasy shorts, OUTGROWN and WONDERS, both toured extensively domestically and internationally, winning multiple Best Short and Best Cinematography Awards. Her Excellence in Storytelling Award, at SeriesFest 2024 for her intergenerational short NANI’S BIRYANI, was the first of its kind. Her most recent directorial project, CHOCOLATE WITH SPRINKLES, an NAACP Image Award nominee and HBO Short Film Competition winner starring Reno Wilson, is a heartwarming, life-affirming tale inspired by memories growing up in her family’s Cleveland, Ohio donut bakery.
Mentorship and volunteerism
Sylvia Kamau - CSP
Sylvia is a seasoned Health and Safety Professional with over 16 years of experience in workplace safety. Her expertise includes health & safety management systems, industrial hygiene, ergonomics, fire and life safety, sustainability, safety auditing, hazard identification, risk assessment, and training.
She holds a master’s degree in Occu
Sylvia is a seasoned Health and Safety Professional with over 16 years of experience in workplace safety. Her expertise includes health & safety management systems, industrial hygiene, ergonomics, fire and life safety, sustainability, safety auditing, hazard identification, risk assessment, and training.
She holds a master’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health Engineering from NJIT and is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP), ISO 45001 Lead Auditor, and IBM Blue Core Coach. Sylvia was named Safety Professional of the Year in Africa 2022 by AfriSafe HSE Nation and spoke at global and regional conferences.
Currently, Sylvia works as a Global Safety Program Manager at IBM, overseeing the implementation of IBM’s Health and Safety Management System. She also volunteers with Brick City Film Center as a mentor to Daniel Simon.
An optimist dedicated to her family and community development, Sylvia enjoys pursuing adventures and has notably volunteered in the community.
Our partners
Donate Now
Here at Brick City Film Center, we pride ourselves on bridging the gap between the underrepresented and their chance at a better future. Through vocational training, education, and trades, we aim to prepare them for the movie/film industry.
If our cause and vision resonates with you, please consider donating!