July 2, 2024

Sean Penn's Experience in Borrego Springs

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Sean Penn photo credit: Chris Pizzello

Filming Paul Thomas Anderson's New Movie in Borrego Springs


Sean Penn recently shared his experiences in Borrego Springs during an interview on KCRW's "The Treatment." While promoting his new movie "Daddio," Penn recounted his time in the area for Paul Thomas Anderson's BC Project. He highlighted the unique human interactions and the challenges of using an electric vehicle in the remote desert community. Penn's insights underscore both the charm and logistical hurdles of working in Borrego Springs.


Cast and Crew in Borrego Springs


Penn was in Borrego Springs as part of the filming for Paul Thomas Anderson's new movie, currently under the working title "BC Project." This film, set to be released on August 8, 2025, boasts a star-studded cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Regina Hall, Benicio Del Toro, Alana Haim, Teyana Taylor, Wood Harris, and more​.



Listen to Sean Penn's comment about Borrego Springs

The Challenges of Driving an Electric Vehicle in Borrego Springs


During the interview, Penn recounted a memorable and somewhat challenging experience involving his electric truck.


"I just got back from Borrego Springs in the desert, and I ventured to get an electric truck. Let's say that the infrastructure in support of that takes a lot of pre-planning because not many of the chargers, once you get away from interstates, are fast chargers. So you can sit there for 20 hours to get a decent charge if you're not careful. At one point, at about 01:00 in the morning, I had to have my truck towed to a charge point." ~ Sean Penn


Note: We spoke to the tow truck driver who stated Penn had rented a Rivian electric vehicle.


Making a comparison to his character's interactions in the movie Daddio:


"When you meet someone as I did that night, who works the night shift as a tow truck driver in Borrego Springs and throughout that very isolated desert community, Anza-Borrego, they've got an ongoing conversation happening before anybody else shows up." ~ Sean Penn



Listen to the full interview:

EV Charging Options In Borrego Springs

Charge your EV with Chargepoint at Borrego Springs Branch 2580 Country Club Rd, Borrego Springs 92004
EV Gateway Charger at Borrego Welcome Center
Charge Your EV at La Casa Del Zorro Resort 1712 Oleander Ln, Borrego Springs, CA
EV Charger at The Springs At Borrego RV Park
2255 Di Giorgio Rd.,
Borrego Springs, CA, 92004

("BC Project" Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn desert car chase & crash & weapon confrontation bts)

"B.C Project" Filming Locations in Borrego Springs


The production took advantage of Borrego Springs' stunning desert landscapes, filming in areas such as Montezuma Valley Road, Henderson Canyon, and Hellhole Canyon within the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. These locations provided a beautiful and authentic backdrop for the film, adding to its visual appeal​​.


Local Impact and Excitement


The filming brought a flurry of activity to Borrego Springs, with road closures and production crews becoming a common sight. Local businesses and residents got a rare glimpse into the workings of a major film production, and the Borrego Springs Resort served as a hub for the crew during their stay.


Borrego Springs: Future Films


Sean Penn's KCRW interview highlights his unique experience filming in Borrego Springs, showcasing its appeal as a filming location and the importance of human connections. As Borrego Springs attracts more filmmakers, locals can look forward to exciting projects that highlight its beauty and charm.


However, Borrego Springs could benefit from the installation of quick chargers to better support electric vehicle infrastructure and enhance the convenience for future film crews and visitors alike.


Suggestion for Local Business Owners: Host Destination Charging


Join Teslas growing network of charging partners and offer convenient Tesla charging as a public or private amenity. With over 40,000 Wall Connectors at hotels, apartments, and workplaces, Tesla drivers can relax for a few minutes, hours or recharge overnight. This can significantly enhance the appeal of your business to a growing number of electric vehicle owners visiting Borrego Springs.


Learn More About Teslas Host Destination Charging



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