The newly founded production company Westona has just completed post-production on its debut film, “All is Fine in ’89,” and is currently seeking distribution. Helmed by Canadian filmmakers Matthew and Adam Lupis, this feature-length coming-of-age drama pays homage to the iconic Brat Pack films of the 1980s. It promises to captivate audiences with its nostalgic portrayal of a pivotal moment in history.
A Nod to the Past
“All is Fine in ’89” shines a light on America’s transition from the excessive 1980s to the post-Reagan 1990s. The film follows the intersecting lives of four students and two teachers at Romano High on the day the Berlin Wall was torn down. It’s the last field party of the decade, where lines are drawn, loyalties are challenged, and lives are changed forever.
“As a storyteller, I’ve always been fascinated by moments in history that define generations,” states Matthew, the film’s writer and director. “This film captures a time when America was on the brink of change, and we wanted to explore how that impacted the lives of our characters at Romano High.”
Drawing inspiration from John Hughes classics like “The Breakfast Club” and “Sixteen Candles,” as well as timeless favorites like “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Dazed and Confused,” “All is Fine in ’89” tells the story of a group of students leaving the safety of their high school hallways to face the uncertainties of the real world. This transition parallels the shift from the colorful, patriotic Reagan era to the Bush-led, post-Cold War 1990s.
Bringing the Story to Life
“Bringing ‘All is Fine in ’89’ to life has been an incredibly rewarding journey,” notes Adam, who co-produced the film and plays one of the leads. “It’s more than just a film about a specific year—it’s about the universal experience of navigating adolescence amid societal shifts. I’m proud to have been a part of this project that resonates so deeply with our shared nostalgia and growth.”
The timing of “All is Fine in ’89” is particularly serendipitous. Its release coincides with the current buzz surrounding the documentary “Brats” on Hulu, which explores the iconic Brat Pack era. With names like Andrew McCarthy, Molly Ringwald, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy, Demi Moore, Judd Nelson, Anthony Michael Hall, and Rob Lowe once again in the spotlight, this cultural moment offers a poignant reflection on the era’s cinematic spirit.
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A Cast of Fresh Faces
“All is Fine in ’89” boasts a cast of fresh new faces reminiscent of the iconic Brat Pack, each bringing their unique flair to the screen. The ensemble includes Adam Lupis (“The Dessert” on Crave), Shelby Handley (“Cheat” with Rodrigo Massa), Dani Romero (“Eli Roth Presents: A Ghost Ruined My Life”), Tom Keat (“Fear Street: Prom Queen” on Netflix), Damien Gulde, and Dylan Hawco (“Crocus” directed by Massimo Meo).
As Westona seeks distribution for “All is Fine in ’89,” the anticipation among film enthusiasts continues to build. The film’s nostalgic charm, combined with its fresh take on the coming-of-age genre, positions it as a must-watch for anyone who grew up in or appreciates the 1980s.
For a glimpse into this nostalgic journey, the official trailer for “All is Fine in ’89” can be viewed here. More information is also available on the film’s IMDb page.
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