If “Don’t Say Good Luck” has landed on your Netflix watchlist, you are in good company. Since its global debut on Aug. 14, the coming-of-age dramedy has rapidly built buzz, pulling in an estimated 8.1 million worldwide views in its first week. Sunny Sandler leads a talent-packed cast as Sophie Birenbaum, starring alongside Melanie Lynskey, Max Greenfield, Jack Champion, Stephanie Beatriz, Scarlett Estevez, Bebe Neuwirth, Steve Buscemi and Jon Lovitz.
The story follows Sophie, a passionate theater enthusiast who lands the lead in her high school musical just as her family faces a life-altering shift. As she navigates the everyday turbulence of growing up, the stage serves as her emotional sanctuary. Beyond the heartwarming drama, viewers drawn to the film’s refreshingly authentic suburban setting may wonder where it was made: “Don’t Say Good Luck” was filmed entirely on location across New Jersey, making for a fun, real-life tour for fans.
New Jersey Was The Perfect Backdrop For Netflix’s ‘Don’t Say Good Luck’
Key Scenes: As Comic Basics reports, filming for “Don’t Say Good Luck” spanned across northern and central New Jersey, running from July 2 through Sept. 12, 2025. With Jersey City serving as the main production hub, the crew traveled to several Garden State towns to capture the film’s authentic suburban feel, bringing cameras to Jersey City, Ridgewood, Cranford, Paramus, Livingston, Montclair, Madison and Lyndhurst.
Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall makes the most sense for a New Jersey location-hunting trip. Warmer weather makes it easier to combine several stops, especially if you want to explore downtown areas, walk around Montclair or Ridgewood, and add outdoor attractions.
Transportation Options: Driving is easily the most convenient way to explore all of the “Don’t Say Good Luck” filming locations, given how widely scattered they are across New Jersey. However, public transit remains a great option for key legs of the trip. Ridgewood is easily accessible via its NJ Transit Main-Bergen County Line station, which features commuter parking, bike facilities, and full ticketing services. Meanwhile, Jersey City serves as an exceptionally well-connected transit hub, offering easy access through the PATH train, Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, and extensive NJ Transit routes.
To anchor Sophie’s high school theater journey, the production turned to Benjamin Franklin Middle School in Ridgewood, utilizing its actual classrooms and auditorium to give the musical rehearsals a realistic backdrop. Other key community spots were featured as well, including Montclair High School’s outdoor amphitheater for graduation scenes and Cranford’s Maple Street for classic residential neighborhood shots.
Local businesses also got their star turn. In Livingston, the beloved Nana’s Deli & Restaurant was temporarily transformed into the fictional Birenbaum’s deli, complete with custom signage and adapted decor. Rounding out the local backdrop, eagle-eyed viewers will easily recognize additional scene setups filmed inside the Paramus Park Mall.
Things to Do: Once you have tracked down the filming locations, don’t head home immediately. Montclair is an especially good extension to the trip, with the Montclair Art Museum, Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center, theaters, parks and independent shops among some of the best attractions. Another worthwhile stop near Livingston is Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange. The zoo has more than 130 animal species and sits within the South Mountain Recreation Complex. If shopping is your thing, check out Paramus Park, which appears on-screen.
Where to Eat: The obvious first stop for movie fans to grab a bite is Nana’s Deli & Restaurant in Livingston. For another Livingston meal, Eppes Essen Deli & Restaurant offers classic Jewish deli fare. If you want something different, Boccone South is a nearby Italian option. In Jersey City, Razza is a popular choice for wood-fired pizza.
Where to Stay: During a “Don’t Say Good Luck” inspired trip, a good strategy is to choose a convenient accommodation base near several filming locations. For a Jersey City-centered trip, Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson is a practical waterfront option with access to PATH and Manhattan. The Westin Jersey City Newport is another waterfront choice. If you prefer the suburban side of the location list, Home2 Suites by Hilton East Hanover provides an extended-stay option near Livingston and the surrounding area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “Don’t Say Good Luck” an Adam Sandler movie?
Adam and his wife, Jackie Sandler, are producers on “Don’t Say Good Luck,” while their daughter Sunny Sandler stars as Sophie Birenbaum, the film’s main character.
What is “Don’t Say Good Luck” about?
“Don’t Say Good Luck” follows high school theater student Sophie Birenbaum after she lands the lead in her school’s production of “Waitress.” Her excitement over the role is complicated by a serious health crisis affecting her mother, forcing Sophie to balance rehearsals, friendships, family and the challenges of growing up. The movie combines coming-of-age comedy and family drama, with theater serving as an important part of Sophie’s journey and emotional catharsis. The story was inspired by writer Laura Hankin’s own experience of performing in a high school musical while her mother was dealing with cancer.
