Finn Wittrock on starring in & executive‑producing Westhampton

Finn Wittrock Takes Center Stage in New Film “Westhampton”

Finn Wittrock—known for his role in American Horror Story—has stepped into a new adventure as both star and executive producer of the upcoming feature Westhampton, written and directed by Christian Nilsson.

Motivation Behind the Venture

Echoing the words once shared by former U.S. Army general and Secretary of State Colin Powell, Wittrock believes that a dream requires sweat, determination, and hard work rather than mere magic.

Featured Cast

• RJ Mitte
• Jake Weary
• Amy Forsyth
• Roxanne Schiebergen
• Sam Strike
• Chris Gray
• Gabrielle Manna
• Tovah Feldshuh
• Luke Slattery
• Dan Lauria

What to Expect

“Westhampton” is poised to blend a compelling narrative with a talented ensemble, showcasing Wittrock’s versatility both on screen and behind the camera.

Synopsis of ‘Westhampton’

Westhampton: Encountering Past

Tom Bell’s Journey

Tom Bell, after leaving Long Island to chase his filmmaking dream, finds himself struggling as a director.

Film’s Dreamlike Vision

His breakout film, shot in black and white 16mm, creates a heightened, almost ethereal link to the memories that inspired it.

Return to Westhampton

• Tom must face secrets hidden in the town’s past.
• Broken bonds lie waiting for him to confront.
• He attempts to rewrite the moments that haunt him.

Finn Wittrock’s Performance

Watching Wittrock in “Westhampton” feels like reliving the quality of premium primetime TV. He brings the same filmic energy to the role as celebrated Emmy winner Mike Manning, whose work includes acclaimed series such as “This is Us” and “Beyond the Gates”.

Working with the cast of actors and crew

Wittrock Praises the Film’s Intimate Collaboration

Wittrock highlighted the cast’s collective effort: “Everyone’s work in this film is incredible!”

Creating a Familial Bond

“Honestly, we became a family with this whole cast,” he shared. “We did it without the creature comforts that you get on most movie sets but that made us all really tight.”

Every Role Matters

“If you took one person out of this cast or crew, the movie wouldn’t be here,” Wittrock explained. “It had just the right amount of people to make it what it is.”

Wittrock on working with Christian Nilsson

Collaborating with Director Christian Nilsson

Wittrock reflects on his first encounter with the script. He recalls reading the draft in 2017, noting that Nilsson, both the director and screenwriter, had devoted countless years to this endeavour. The script itself conveyed the passion and commitment that Nilsson had poured into the project.

The Personal Narrative of Tom

• Wittrock describes the story as a deeply personal account of an experience that his character, Tom, endured.
• Nilsson informed him that only he could embody this role, prompting Wittrock to ask, “Are you sure?”
• Nilsson affirmed, and Wittrock responded, “All right, I’m in.” He accepted the role without hesitation.

Nilsson’s Artistic Vision

Wittrock praises the work as a beautiful artistic achievement. He considers it the brainchild of Nilsson, who had nurtured the idea over many years.

Spotlight: Christian Nilsson

Christian Nilsson stands out as a visionary filmmaker.

Photo Credit: Joel Slocum

Wittrock on juggling both hats: actor and executive producer

Wittrock Balances Acting and Producing

Taking on the dual duties of actor and executive producer, Wittrock said, “It’s a challenge I don’t take lightly.”

Long‑Term Commitment

• He was involved from the early stages, “I was with this project for a long time.”
• During its development, the production “came together and fell apart a few times” due to the modern complexities of filmmaking.
• When the team finally synchronized, Wittrock responded, “yes, I’m in,” and pledged to contribute creatively on every front.

Creative Vision

Wittrock emphasized his desire to explore a wide range of creative possibilities, “I want to be as creative as possible on every front.”

Future Plans

• He intends to delve into new storytelling techniques.
• Wittrock aims to maintain an innovative approach throughout the project’s lifecycle.

Lessons learned from this screenplay

Reflections on the Screenplay’s Emotional Journey

Wittrock began by admitting that the first time he read the script, he was struck by its deeply sad tone.

He noted that a redemptive arc gradually emerges as the protagonist wrestles with intense self‑anger and inner torment.

According to him, the story ultimately uplifts the audience and maintains a subdued, sensitive pace—a pace that is rarely achieved in mainstream cinema.

Wittrock further emphasized that in the film, his character confronts personal demons, adding a layer of intellectual depth to the narrative.

Wittrock on being a part of the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival

World‑Premiere Unveiled at Tribeca

The film just made its debut on Saturday, June 7th at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York, staged by Angelika at Village East.

Tribeca Experience

• Wittrock reflected on the “truly awesome” feel of the festival.
• He recalled years of watching red carpets as a struggling actor.
• “I yearned to be here, so here we are!” he said.

Full‑Circle Moment

He described it as a “wonderful, full‑circle moment,” noting his joy and sense of validation.

Little Movie, Big Impact

Wittrock added, “It’s the little movie that could, and it reassures you that smaller films can make a difference.”

Wittrock on how he channels the feelings of guilt and trauma in the story

Unpacking Guilt and Trauma Through Memory

When interviewers asked how he channels guilt and trauma in his latest narrative, he opened up about his lifelong connection to the Berkshires.

Hometown Roots as Emotional Anchor

• I left my Massachusetts hometown young, driven by economic necessity.
• Every summer I returned, a ritual that grounded me.
• Leaving felt painful, a bruise that lingered in a child’s mind.

He added that although his experience may not match the intensity someone else endured, it served as a portal into nostalgia.

Nostalgia: The Inner Child’s Voice

There exists an inner child that refuses to surrender, insisting that the scent of one’s hometown remains alive.

RJ Mitte

Photo Credit: Bobby Quillard

Working with RJ Mitte

RJ Mitte Calms Westhampton Residents During Film

While filming a film in Westhampton, actor RJ Mitte acted as the town’s unofficial figure—“the Mayor of Westhampton.”

• Skeptical locals worried about a movie set in their small town.
• Mitte visited the community to explain the plot and cast, reassuring them it would be a hit.
• By the end of shooting, the town had embraced the film crew.

Actor Wittrock said, “RJ could talk about him all day, and he put the townspeople at ease.”

Wittrock on filming on Long Island

Rephrased Commentary

Wittrock shared an upbeat reflection during the production of this indie film on Long Island: “It was genuinely enjoyable! The scenery was stunning.”

• Handler: Independent cinema context
• Location: Long Island, New York
• Actor’s perspective: Positive and descriptive

Wittrock furnishes his definition of success

Refining the Concept of Success

What True Success Looks Like

• Success is rooted in collaboration—working with people who inspire.
• Great people amplify impact—their enthusiasm fuels collective achievements.
• Meaningful teamwork = true mastery—it’s the cornerstone of lasting victories.

A Quick Takeaway

When you align with inspiring individuals, success transforms into a shared experience that resonates beyond personal goals.

Message for his fans and supporters about ‘Westhampton’

Finn Wittrock and the Movie “Westhampton”

What Finn Says to His Fans

Finn tells supporters that the film “Westhampton” might feel slower than usual, but he believes that the patience will pay off in the end.

The Story’s Core Theme

• Coming‑of‑age for someone who already has grown up.
• A psyche that keeps reliving one key memory, causing emotional stunting.
• The protagonist must return to his beginnings, find inner strength, and embrace forgiveness.

Inspiration from a Legend

American track legend Steve Prefontaine once said, “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.” Finn Wittrock embodies this wise quote.

How to Follow Finn Wittrock

Follow Finn on Instagram to stay updated on his latest projects.