This week, the residents of a small town in Northern California were in for a surprise as Apple Studios quietly filmed a notable movie along the coast.
Though the production kept things under wraps by labeling the film as “Drummets” on permits and street signs, locals quickly figured out that it was actually “Sponsored,” a psychological thriller featuring notable actors like Jason Segel, John C. Reilly, and Amy Madigan, as reported by SFGATE.
The filming took place over three days in Half Moon Bay, a town with a population of just under 12,000, and it faced challenges like heavy rain and road closures while aiming to capture the area’s charming, historic vibe.
They didn’t limit the shoot to coastal scenes; filming integrated deeply into the community.
Local restaurant manager Camille Del Fierro remarked to SFGATE about having John C. Reilly use his restaurant’s office as an impromptu dressing room. “It was really cool,” she said, reflecting on the experience of being around such a well-known figure. “It’s like, ‘Oh my god, this is a celebrity in my little office.'”
The filming also impacted local activities, such as closing a church that forced a Tuesday night Bible study to relocate while the Community United Methodist Church was used to film scenes of a 12-step meeting.
A call for extras, specifically those aged 20 to 50, gained traction on local social media, prompting many residents to line up for a brief moment in the spotlight.
Additionally, Smithfield Park’s parking lot transformed into a busy staging area filled with white trailers and California Highway Patrol vehicles.
While Apple TV didn’t officially confirm the “Sponsored” title, the details align with a release from the California Film Commission in 2025.
The plot follows Peter (Segel) as he navigates a recovery program following a drunk driving accident, where he meets a charming mentor named Jerry (Reilly). For those walking their dogs near Wavecrest’s cypress tunnel, black-clad production assistants occasionally asked them to move away to keep the scene clear.
Despite the disruptions, the town seemed to appreciate the attention. “This is kind of a compliment to this area,” one local shared with SFGATE.
The last significant film to be shot in this charming town was “Chasing Mavericks” back in 2012, featuring Gerard Butler.
