Matthew and Adam Lupis Are Offering Their Nostalgic Masterpiece “All is Fine in '89”

Westona, a newly established production company, has recently wrapped post-production on its debut feature, the coming-of-age drama "All is Fine in '89." Helmed by Canadian filmmaking duo Matthew and Adam Lupis, the film is a nostalgic ode to the iconic Brat Pack era. Set against the backdrop of the late 1980s, as America transitioned from the excesses of the Reagan years to the uncertainty of the post-Cold War landscape, the story follows a group of high school students as they navigate the complexities of adolescence.

Inspired by the timeless works of John Hughes and other cinematic touchstones of the decade, "All is Fine in '89" captures the essence of a generation on the cusp of adulthood. The film delves into themes of friendship, identity, and societal change as the characters grapple with the challenges of growing up. It's a poignant portrayal of a pivotal moment in history, infused with a sense of longing for a bygone era.

The Lupis brothers have crafted a film that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Their intimate knowledge of the period shines through in every frame. Adam, who co-produced the film and stars in one of the lead roles, has described the project as a labor of love. We had the unique opportunity to sit down with Matthew and Adam to discuss their creative process, the film's inspirations, and their hopes for its reception.

Hello Adam and Matthew! Let’s get to know you a bit. Who’s the what of the duo?

Matthew: Adam’s the brains and the brawn – I’m just here along for the ride.

Adam: [laughs] We’re both producers, and I was one of the stars in All is Fine in '89. My brother wrote and directed the film. And yes, like Steve and Doug Butabi, we are indeed brothers. 

What’s it like mixing family and business? Does it ever get hairy?

Matthew: To be honest, not at all. Which is surprising because we were juggling a million different tasks. We never argued or got into any shouting matches, though. I was so impressed by my brother. His attitude throughout the production really set the tone.

Adam: I couldn’t agree more. Despite the million different tasks we were juggling, we managed to keep things running smoothly. We might have found the secret to sibling harmony – just make a movie together! Who knew? [laughs]

What is it about 1989 that makes it the best year to set this film in?

Matthew: The year 1989 was such a pivotal point in the United States – politically, socially, culturally. It was really a time of transition. The U.S. having one foot in the bravado of the 80s and the other in the 90s when sensibilities were starting to change. That theme of transition is paralleled with the characters of our story – high-school seniors who are taking that leap from the cozy confines of high school to the uncertain world of adulthood. And I thought there was really a unique story to tell in that particular time period. 

How do you believe "All is Fine in '89" captures the essence of the transition from the Reagan era to the post-Cold War 1990s?

Matthew: We were very deliberate in highlighting that transition through the writing, through the color grade, all the way to our wonderful team of hair, makeup, set design, music, and lighting. The film purposely throws the viewer into the vibrant, fun, colorful 80s that has been romanticized in today’s current pop culture. As the film progresses, we tone down that color and vibrancy and the story takes both a figurative and literal transition to darkness. That’s not to say the 90s were necessarily a dark time, but with Reagan in the rearview mirror and the Cold War ending, it was a very unique time for the United States. Our final scene in the film touches on that time and really says everything I wanted to say with this story. 

The film pays homage to the “Brat Pack” era in Hollywood. Let’s say you get to work with one of those actors in their heyday, who would that be?

Adam: If I could work with one actor from the “Brat Pack” era, it would have to be Judd Nelson. He was always my favorite in The Breakfast Club – the rebellious attitude and iconic fist pump at the end are unforgettable. 

What were some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you guys found while working on this idea and then getting it made?

Matthew: There were challenges around every corner [laughs]. But those challenges forced us to turn them into opportunities. And when you start overcoming challenges one by one, you start to build confidence and pride in what you’re doing, which we certainly did. 

Adam: My brother and I were involved every step of the way in this process, from the conception of the idea to the writing, casting, location scouting, assembling the cast and crew, all the way to the rigors of post-production.

Matthew: Post was definitely the most challenging [laughs].

What was your process for selecting the cast, and how do you feel they embody the spirit of the characters you envisioned?

Adam: Our process was very thorough. We had an incredible turnout during the audition process, which allowed us to really weigh our options and find the perfect actors for the characters we wanted to depict on the screen. We were spoiled in that regard. There’s some incredible up-and-coming talent in acting, especially in Canada, where we primarily cast from. Our actors made this film what it is. My brother and I are forever grateful for how dedicated they were and how much they all gave to this production. 

As we’ve talked about, the film reflects a specific feeling and time period, and while audiences who were in their teens back then can relate, how do you see modern young audiences will relate?

Adam: Modern young audiences will relate to All is Fine in '89 because it deals with growing up, finding yourself, and the challenges of becoming an adult. The characters face problems that everyone understands, like family issues, relationships, and figuring out what to do with their lives. The retro style and cool soundtrack will give younger viewers a fun and interesting look into the 80s. Plus, watching the characters handle life without modern technology can be both funny and eye-opening for today's generation.

What’s next on the horizon for the Lupis Bros, either individually or as a team?

Matthew: We’re a team and the sky’s the limit. I’m proud of what we accomplished. It was more difficult than I imagined it would be. With that said, I feel we created a beautiful film and one that will entertain and impact audiences. We have an idea we are working on now that we’re excited about and, who knows, maybe there’s more story to tell with the characters from All is Fine in ’89.

Adam: The goal is to continue working together and showing the world what we’re capable of. We’re focused on telling great stories that resonate with audiences. I also want to become a more established actor, exploring new roles and growing in my craft.

Westona Production contact: westonapictures@gmail.com