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The basics:

• Bell Works hosts 2026 Monmouth Film Festival
• Three-day experiential event runs May 29–31 in Holmdel
• MFF features films, panels, networking, vendors and more
• Festival highlights NJ film industry momentum, mixed-use growth

Bell Works Holmdel is moving from background actor to feature player this weekend, as the setting for Apple TV’s hit show “Severance” hosts the 2026 Monmouth Film Festival.

Running May 29–31, the Monmouth Film Festival offers a space for filmmakers, industry professionals and film enthusiasts to gather. MFF features panels, workshops, screenings, networking and more.

The fest will kick off with a preview screening of “Power Ballad” ahead of its wide release. Fittingly, stars of the Lionsgate Studios picture – Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas – hail from the great Garden State.

The Opening Night Film at Bell Theater from “Once” and “Sing Street” writer and director John Carney signals the state – and county’s – arrival in the wider film and production industry. It also serves as an endorsement for the metroburb model introduced and honed by Inspired by Somerset Development at the historic Bell Labs complex.

Bell Works Holmdel spans 2 million square feet. The concept brings together office space along with retail, hospitability, entertainment and more. The collective aims to foster – as well as invite – community.

Along with room to work (and grow), the property has maxxed out its retail component. Unique on-site concepts include a sit-down eatery, rooftop space, indoor pickleball, the Holmdel Public Library, the 285-seat Bell Theater, and more.

Monmouth Film Festival founder Nicholas Marchese said he launched the festival to create an inclusive, high-level cinematic experience.

Watch the ‘Power Ballad’ official trailer, courtesy of Lionsgate:

“MFF is about bringing people together through powerful storytelling,” he said. “Whether you’re an independent filmmaker, a dedicated film lover, or someone discovering these stories for the first time, the festival is designed to create meaningful connections and celebrate great cinema from New Jersey and around the world.”

Space for creatives and creative spaces

For MFF, this year’s event marks a return to in-person festivities. Since its 2016 debut, the event previously held court at Two River Theater before transitioning to a virtual format during the pandemic.

According to npz studio+ founder and CEO (and past NJBIZ Women in Business honoree) Paola Zamudio, Monmouth Film Festival was intentional in selecting Bell Works for this year’s event.

“The festival organizers reached out to me directly to host the event here at Bell Works,” Zamudio told NJBIZ in a statement. “I thought it would be a great opportunity to showcase Bell Works as an epicenter for arts and culture in the Northeast, as well as a hub for innovation.”

The marquee event speaks to the venue’s ability to function as more than just space.

Taking inspiration from its surroundings, Inspired by Somerset Development President and CEO Ralph Zucker noted Bell Works has represented innovation and creativity since its start.

“Our vision was to create a destination where culture, community and extraordinary experiences could thrive, and the Monmouth Film Festival is exactly that,” Zucker said. “Since Bell Theater opened two years ago, the response has been tremendous, and seeing such remarkable films and talent coming to Monmouth County is something we are truly proud of.”

This year’s Monmouth Film Festival program features shorts, documentaries and feature films from around the world, as well as stories rooted in the Garden State.

Organizers anticipate an engaging and energetic event as “Hollywood comes to New Jersey,” offering space for audiences, professionals and others to connect.

MFF builds on industry momentum in New Jersey. The Hollywood Reporter recently noted film shoots were down across the U.S. in 2026 – except in the Garden State. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Film Expo took place April 30.

Especially with Netflix joining the landscape, Monmouth County, too, has seen its profile rise as residents, jobs and development grow in the region.

2026 Monmouth Film Festival events include:

• A lineup of free panel discussions, workshops, filmmaker Q&As, and special educational programs presented by the New York Film Academy
• A free Digital Film Expo May 30 and May 31, running throughout festival hours in the iconic central atrium. It will showcase cameras, lighting and production technology from companies such as Blackmagic Design, DaVinci Resolve, SmallRig, IDX and more
• An opening night Industry Mixer with red carpets, live jazz, special guests, cocktails, and local bites
• The 2026 MFF Awards Ceremony hosted by celebrity guest Eric Eremita (Discovery/HGTV/Hulu) with special guest appearances

Festival passes are available online now. Find more information at www.monmouthfilm.org.