Bringing Twisted Tea Light to Life: Behind the Scenes of a National Commercial Filmed in the heart of Hollywood East.
- Tyler Zibaie
- Mar 20
- 4 min read
Meet the Creative Forces Behind the Twisted Tea Light Commercial.
In a town built by films like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Blue Velvet, The Crow, and Firestarter, a longstanding collaboration culminated in the creation of something different for Wilmington, NC. The first-ever Twisted Tea Light commercial. This project brought together Executive Producers Kurt Squires of SQUiERS Agency, Liz and Gregg Ferguson of Current Motion, and the dynamic team at Lighthouse Films, led by Director Brad Walker and Executive Producer Tyler Zibaie.
Kurt Squiers, founder of SQUiERS®, LLC, based in Raleigh, NC, regularly partners with Liz Ferguson and Gregg Ferguson, co-founders of Portland, Maine-based Current Motion. Together, they have built a hybrid agency and production company that seamlessly blends video production with brand strategy, delivering innovative storytelling and visually
compelling narratives across advertising, brand development, and music-related content.
SQUiERS and Current Motion have produced work featured in major televised events, including the Super Bowl, Olympics, 4 Nations Face-Off, Gold Cup, and World Series.
Their creative contributions to advertising and brand strategy have earned them industry recognition since they began collaborating in 2007. Their partnership also extends to the acclaimed AC/DC Beyond the Thunder podcast, where they celebrate the band's enduring legacy through intimate stories, legendary guests, and electrifying discussions. Their work
with AC/DC even crossed over into licensing, securing TNT and Have a Drink on Me for Twisted Tea’s national advertising campaigns.
The Boston Beer Company has been our longest-running client, with an impressive portfolio of brands, including Twisted Tea, dating back to 2008. They’ve been more than just a tremendous creative partner—they’ve become like family. Incorporating Lighthouse Films into that creative family has been incredibly beneficial. They amplify everything we stand for and are fully committed to their craft. Filming in North Carolina—Wilmington specifically—has been the perfect experience, with its talented crews, supportive production teams, and stunning locations over the years. -Kurt Squiers, Liz & Gregg Ferguson
Building on a four-year partnership and a portfolio of nine Twisted Tea Tea Drop commercials across six states, director Brad Walker, co-founder of Lighthouse Films, joined forces with Lighthouse Films Executive Producer Tyler Zibaie and Line Producer Jason Summers to bring this latest project to life. Their combined efforts not only showcased Wilmington’s vibrant streets but also highlighted the exceptional crew and talents of its local community.
Brad Walker brings over 20 years of experience Directing feature, commercial, and documentary filmmaking. As Director and Cinematographer, he leads projects from inception to completion. In the upcoming musical teen drama series “The Runarounds,” set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video, Brad served as lead cinematographer, capturing the story of a group of high school graduates forming a rock band in Wilmington, North Carolina.
A Cinematic Journey Through Wilmington
Loosely inspired by the iconic film Forrest Gump , the commercial reimagined the narrative with a refreshing twist. The Twisted Tea Light Can mascot embarked on a journey down Wilmington’s Front Street, celebrated for its blend of modern design and historic charm, reminiscent of New York City. As the mascot jogged along, passersby couldn’t help but join the growing procession of fans, turning an ordinary day into an impromptu celebration.
Seamless Collaboration and Community Spirit
Bringing this vision to fruition required meticulous planning and collaboration. Months of coordination with local businesses, the permitting department, and Wilmington’s seasoned film crew ensured a smooth production process. The success of the commercial is a testament to Wilmington’s rich pool of talent, notably led by Lighthouse Films, a full-service production company based in the Brooklyn Arts District.
Director and Cinematographer Brad Walker, founder of Lighthouse Films, shared his perspective:
Boston Beer and their Twisted Tea team are dedicated to pushing the bar to create content that is ACTUALLY engaging for their consumer and new customers. It’s a lifestyle, it’s a brand, but most importantly, Twisted Tea is a cultural phenomenon.”
Executive Producer and Head Of Production and Marketing For Lighthouse Films, Tyler Zibaie, emphasized the city’s role in nurturing top-tier talent:
The on-camera talent in Wilmington sets the bar for what is possible in film, TV, and commercials. Behind the scenes, we have some of the most skilled crew on the planet. From camera operators to gaffers, craft services, and production assistants, our town is the place to bring a production to life.”
He further highlighted the expertise of local professionals:
Jason Summers, a Line Producer we have worked with for over a decade, local to Carolina Beach, is literally one of the best on the planet. Full stop. Mike Hewett, a Wilmington-based locations manager, was also integral in bringing this to life. His skill sets are unmatched. With both young and tenured crew, anything can be brought to life here.
A Celebration of Community and Creativity
This commercial stands as a testament to what can be achieved when creativity meets community. It underscores Wilmington’s position as a burgeoning hub for film and media, all while celebrating the spirit of collaboration that defines this coastal city. To learn more about SQUiERS, Current Motion, or Lighthouse Films, visit the links below.
SQUiERS: Squiersllc.com
Current Motion: Currentmotion.com
Lighthouse Films: Lighthousefilms.com
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