Key Takeaways:
- Judgment Day is a new comedy feature starring Will Ferrell and Zac Efron, currently filming in Atlanta, Georgia.
- The film centers on a revenge-fueled hostage situation inside a reality TV courtroom show.
- Directed and written by Nicholas Stoller, the film reunites him with Ferrell after their work on You’re Cordially Invited.
- Part of a growing wave of film productions in Georgia, with Shadowbox Studios as its production base.
Will Ferrell’s Judgment Day Begins Filming in Georgia
Will Ferrell is returning to the big screen in a bold, high-concept comedy that blends courtroom satire with outrageous action. His latest film, Judgment Day, is currently filming in Atlanta, Georgia, and it’s already generating buzz across the entertainment industry.
The upcoming feature, backed by Amazon MGM Studios, pairs Ferrell with Zac Efron in a darkly comedic tale that takes aim at the world of televised justice. Directed and written by Nicholas Stoller (Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Neighbors), the film is shaping up to be a must-watch for comedy lovers and industry insiders alike.
A Reality Courtroom Turns Real
Originally announced in November 2024, Judgment Day centers around a twisted revenge plot that unfolds live on air. Zac Efron plays a former convict who blames a celebrity TV judge—played by Will Ferrell—for a court ruling that derailed his life. In an explosive turn, he storms the set of the judge’s reality show, taking the courtroom hostage to turn the tables—literally—on live television.
Director Nicholas Stoller explains:
“The movie’s about a TV judge—kind of a blowhard, kind of a jerk. Years ago, he ruled against a guy, and it wrecked the guy’s life. That guy goes to jail, gets out, and hijacks the judge’s show to put him on trial. It’s a wild ride.”
This offbeat, high-stakes premise promises plenty of laughs with a biting edge, reminiscent of Ferrell’s previous genre-bending comedies like Anchorman and The Other Guys.
A Ferrell-Stoller Reunion
Judgment Day marks the second collaboration between Ferrell and Stoller under the Amazon MGM Studios banner. The duo previously teamed up for You’re Cordially Invited, a wedding comedy that also filmed in Georgia.
Their creative synergy is evident, and this new project is expected to build on that chemistry—especially with a fresh dynamic between Ferrell’s over-the-top courtroom persona and Efron’s intense on-screen energy.
Why Georgia Is the New Hollywood
The film is being shot at Shadowbox Studios in Atlanta, one of Georgia’s top production hubs. Georgia’s film industry continues to thrive, thanks to generous tax incentives and a skilled local workforce.
According to the Georgia Film Office, more than 24 productions are currently underway in the state, with at least five feature films—including Judgment Day—actively filming.
The decision to film in Georgia reflects a larger trend among major studios, which see the state as a cost-effective and film-friendly environment. For entertainment professionals, this means more jobs, networking opportunities, and local casting calls in the heart of the South.
What This Means for Industry Pros
For actors, crew members, and aspiring filmmakers, Judgment Day is more than just a star-studded comedy—it’s another signal that Georgia remains a booming production hotspot.
If you’re based in the Southeast or looking to break into the industry, now is the time to stay connected, keep your materials up to date, and watch for casting and crew calls linked to this and other high-profile productions.
Final Thoughts
With Judgment Day, Ferrell, Efron, and Stoller are delivering a bold, hilarious take on the courtroom genre. From its timely plot to its powerhouse cast and strategic filming location, this production is set to make waves in both Hollywood and Atlanta.
Whether you’re an entertainment pro looking for your next gig or just love behind-the-scenes insights, keep Judgment Day on your radar—it’s bound to be one of 2025’s standout comedies.
