Apple Original Films has secured global rights to Sponsor, an upcoming psychological thriller starring Jason Segel and directed by James Ponsoldt. The film, set to shoot in California, stems from an original idea co-written by Segel and Ponsoldt, marking another creative partnership between the two following their work on Apple’s Emmy-nominated series Shrinking.
Sponsor follows Peter, played by Segel, who faces the consequences of a reckless night that ends in a serious accident. Given the choice between prison and rehabilitation, he reluctantly joins a recovery program, convinced he doesn’t belong there. His skepticism begins to shift when he meets Jerry — a sharp, magnetic, and mysterious sponsor whose influence quickly takes an unsettling turn. The story evolves into a tense exploration of guilt, trust, and dependency, unfolding in Ponsoldt’s signature intimate and emotionally charged style.
Produced by Apple Studios and Platinum Dunes, the film brings together a notable production team including Segel, Ponsoldt, Michael Bay, Brad Fuller, and Alex Ginno. It continues Apple’s push into mature, character-driven storytelling that balances psychological depth with mainstream appeal. The project also marks another collaboration between Apple and Platinum Dunes, as the studio expands its slate of high-profile thrillers and dramas for Apple TV+.
For Segel and Ponsoldt, Sponsor represents a thematic shift from the humor and heart of Shrinking to a darker psychological space. The two last worked together on The End of the Tour (2015), where Segel earned critical praise for his portrayal of author David Foster Wallace — a performance that established his ability to navigate complex, introspective material.
While no release date has been announced, Sponsor adds to Apple’s growing lineup of original films featuring established talent and original concepts. Following recent successes in both awards and streaming viewership, the project signals Apple’s continued interest in producing mid-budget adult dramas and thrillers that bridge cinematic storytelling with the reach of streaming.
