E! Co-Founder Alan Mruvka Launches Filmology Labs Studios

Why It Matters

Filmology Labs gives creators a fast, cost‑effective hub for vertical content, while injecting significant economic activity and skilled jobs into Paterson’s revitalizing economy.

Key Takeaways

• $250M investment creates 250,000 sq ft studio campus.
• 21 sound stages built for vertical micro‑drama production.
• Verza TV to launch two vertical dramas monthly.
• Proximity to Manhattan leverages NJ tax credits.
• AI, LED volume, podcast studios support creators.

Pulse Analysis

The rise of vertical micro‑drama formats has reshaped how audiences consume short‑form video, prompting producers to seek studios that can deliver rapid turnaround without sacrificing quality. Filmology Labs answers that demand by integrating pre‑lit standing sets and dedicated LED volume technology, mirroring the capabilities of high‑budget streaming productions while keeping costs aligned with digital‑first budgets. This specialized infrastructure reduces set‑up time, allowing creators to focus on storytelling and audience engagement, a critical advantage in a market where speed to platform can dictate success.

Strategically located in Paterson’s historic Reinhardt Building, the campus benefits from a 20‑minute rail and road link to Manhattan, granting easy access to talent pools and distribution networks. New Jersey’s competitive film and digital‑media tax credits further enhance the financial appeal, especially for vertical dramas that qualify for additional incentives. The inclusion of AI‑driven editing suites, podcast studios, and a 200‑seat commissary creates an end‑to‑end ecosystem, positioning Filmology Labs as a one‑stop shop for modern content creators seeking both technological edge and fiscal efficiency.

Beyond the studio walls, the project promises broader socioeconomic impact. By partnering with local schools and offering training pathways, Filmology Labs aims to cultivate a new generation of media professionals, directly addressing the talent shortage in the fast‑growing vertical content sector. The $250 million infusion is expected to generate hundreds of construction and permanent jobs, bolstering Paterson’s economic revitalization efforts. As more brands and networks pivot to vertical storytelling, Filmology Labs could become a benchmark for regional studios seeking to blend cutting‑edge tech with community development.

E! Co-Founder Alan Mruvka Launches Filmology Labs Studios

By George Winslow · published 7 hours ago

PATERSON, N.J. — As more media companies push to expand their vertical micro‑drama production, real‑estate developer and E! Entertainment Television co‑founder Alan Mruvka has announced the launch of Filmology Labs: Content Creation Studios, a next‑generation studio campus located in Paterson, New Jersey.

The new studio complex will house a variety of production activities, including Mruvka’s recently announced vertical micro‑drama platform Verza TV, which plans to produce more than two vertical micro‑dramas per month. It will also offer facilities for other micro‑drama producers, a variety of production companies, and independent content creators.

Filmology Labs will be developed inside the historic Reinhardt Building at 61 State Street, a landmark property that once served as a major silk mill during Paterson’s rise as the renowned “Silk City.” Now commonly known as the Padded Wagon Building along Interstate 80, the property has been acquired by Mruvka and will be transformed into a state‑of‑the‑art production hub spanning approximately 250,000 sq ft, representing an investment of more than $250 million.

Designed by Conrad Roncati of Architectura, Filmology Labs will differ fundamentally from traditional big‑box sound stages. Built as Content Creation Studios, the campus is designed for speed, efficiency, and scale. It will feature 21 production sound stages with pre‑built, fully lit, permanent standing sets optimized for vertical storytelling and creator‑driven production. This approach eliminates the time and cost typically associated with set design, construction, and lighting—allowing micro‑dramas and digital content to be produced quickly and economically.

Located just 20 minutes from Manhattan, Filmology Labs also offers productions access to New Jersey’s film and digital‑media tax credits, including incentives applicable to vertical dramas. The campus will include sound stages, AI studios, podcast studios, a green‑screen stage, and an LED Volume Wall stage using technology similar to that employed on The Mandalorian. Additional amenities include creative office space, a commissary capable of serving 200 people, and a fitness and yoga studio—positioning Filmology Labs as a comprehensive ecosystem for modern content creation.

“Paterson is one of the most extraordinary cities in New Jersey and a vibrant community,” said Alan Mruvka, owner of Filmology Labs and founder of Verza TV. “Our goal is to engage local schools to help train young people for careers in this fast‑growing industry, while drawing investment into Paterson and showcasing the city to the world. Filmology Labs is about creating opportunity—creatively, economically, and culturally.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Filmology Labs to Paterson,” said Mayor André Sayegh. “This significant investment will create jobs, spark innovation, and help position our city at the forefront of the evolving media and entertainment economy. Projects like this generate new opportunities for residents, support local businesses, and accelerate Paterson’s continued growth and revitalization.”