Whenever we’re planning a trip, it’s always fun to do a little recon work first by watching movies or TV shows about the destination. Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo County have a broad range of television shows and feature films either shot here, starring local talent, or about very Paso subjects. Here are some of our top picks.
Released in 2023, “Wine Thief” is a newcomer that is completely based in Paso Robles. Centered around local favorite Tobin James Cellars, “Wine Thief” is the story of two brothers, a questionable plan, and the wine, whiskey, and hijinks that follow. From landscape shots to dulcet tones of wine pouring, “Wine Thief” definitely whets the appetite for all things Paso Robles.
NBC megahit “This is Us” serves location inspiration in Episode 13 of Season 6, “The Day of the Wedding.” Always an emotionally-charged view, focus on the setting to spare a few tears: filmed around Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles, viewers are treated to a Central Coast winery resort experience during the episode.
A mobster turns suburbanite in… Paso Robles? If you’re Steve Martin and it’s 1990, it makes sense! “My Blue Heaven” is a fun fish-out-of-water film starring Martin, Rick Moranis, and Joan Cusack. Martin’s Vinnie Antonelli enters the Witness Protection Program and lands in the fictional Fryburg, California to start anew. Filmed throughout Paso Robles, Atascadero, and San Luis Obispo, viewers are treated to the tranquil environs in which Vinnie attempts a reset. Savvy locals can catch a glimpse of Atascadero City Hall!
2018’s “Destination Wedding” stars beloved actors Keanu Reeves and Winona Ryder as two misanthropic wedding guests forced to interact with each other against their best wishes. Filmed in Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo, the gorgeous scenery just might have something to do with their respective changes of heart! Be sure to check out scenes at the stunning Dubost Ranch (https://www.travelpaso.com/listing/dubost-ranch/677/) to understand how magical views can influence a romantic about-face.
Lovers of old Westerns will thrill to learn that episodes of “Rawhide” were shot around Paso Robles. Although exactly which episodes were shot where is lost to time, but it’s enough to know that Clint Eastwood strode these fields in his early acting days.
Have a thirst for adventure? Animal Planet’s “Redwood Kings” is a reality show that explores how twins Ron and Don Daniels built their tree house business, Daniels Wood Land and P.W. Murphy Mining Company, a 1800s mining themed adventure camp. Located in Paso Robles, the Daniels brothers bring California history to life, both on the screen and in real life.
Finally, we’ve saved the crawliest for last: “Arachnophobia.” This 1990 horror about a South American spider breed that reproduces and kills with disturbing speed was filmed in Cambria and Paso Robles. Cambria’s Coast Union High School is featured, as are several gorgeous buildings in downtown Cambria while the Victorian house and barn on Halter Ranch Vineyard also served as sets. It might be wise to wear earplugs while watching to ensure these beautiful locations are not forever linked to that creepy crunching sound.
Love the movies? Don't miss the annual SLO International Film Fest!
