In an unexpected yet fitting collaboration, blockbuster filmmaker Michael Bay has directed a recruitment advertisement for the U.S. Secret Service, an organization known for its high-stakes action and elite operations—something that aligns seamlessly with Bay’s signature explosive style. What makes this story even more compelling is Bay’s meeting with then-President Donald Trump during the production of the ad, a moment the director himself described as “surreal.”

Bay and Trump: A Connection Forged Through Film

Michael Bay and Donald Trump share a notable history, particularly regarding Bay’s 2016 film 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi. The movie, which depicts the true events of the 2012 attack on the U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi, was a controversial subject during Barack Obama’s presidency. Obama’s administration sought to distance itself from the film, as its narrative—centered around the bravery of American contractors and the lack of immediate military intervention—was politically sensitive. The film’s release coincided with the 2016 presidential election, and Trump, then a candidate, supported screenings of 13 Hours as part of his campaign, leveraging its themes of American heroism and government accountability.

A Presidential Meeting Like No Other

Bay took to social media to share his extraordinary experience while filming the Secret Service’s Super Bowl commercial. According to the director:

Filming Secret Service Super Bowl commercial: President Trump wanted to meet me. I’m the only person standing in front of AF1, Marine One lands, and the President walks up to me: surreal. The White House called: The President would like to meet me before he flew off on Air Force One. Surreal experience!!

Michael Bay

The meeting, which took place in front of Air Force One, encapsulated the larger-than-life energy both Trump and Bay are known for. Given their shared history with 13 Hours, it’s no surprise that Trump, a media-savvy president, would want to connect with Bay during the production of a national security-themed commercial.

The Bayhem Touch: What Camera Was Used?

While details about the production remain scarce, it’s highly likely that the ad was shot using one of the RED Digital Cinema cameras that Bay frequently utilizes—perhaps even one of the custom “Bayhem” RED cameras used on his previous projects (6 Underground, Ambulance). Bay has been known for pushing the limits of digital cinematography, particularly with RED’s high-resolution sensors making them the probable choice for a project of this scale.

A 13 Hours Connection: Soundtrack and Themes

Adding another layer to the connection between this recruitment ad and 13 Hours, the soundtrack used in the commercial reportedly originates from the film. This deliberate choice reinforces the thematic bridge between the two projects, solidifying the idea of American patriotism, elite tactical forces, and unwavering dedication to duty—all elements Bay thrives in portraying.

A Master of Spectacle Meets the Secret Service

Michael Bay’s involvement in directing a U.S. Secret Service recruitment commercial is a fascinating convergence of Hollywood spectacle and real-world national security. His meeting with Donald Trump adds further intrigue, linking back to their previous connection over 13 Hours. Whether through his explosive action films or real-life experiences, Bay continues to find himself at the center of moments that feel straight out of a movie. Check out the Ad below: 

• Ambulance FPV Drone Featurette with the Komodo Bayhem
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• Ambulance Technical Movie Review: Those Aerial FPV Shots Are F***ing Amazing