working with us

  • “The producing team of Westwood and Lastrella brought off the impossible… The smoothness of the operation and the camaraderie on set were testimonies to their cheerful attitude, boundless energy, and thoughtful preparation. As for the finished product? I couldn't be happier.”

    ERIC CONGER

    Writer, So Help Me God

  • “They’re awesome at what they do and they’re wonderful people to be around. I work with them every chance I get. What else can I say?”

    TRUMAN HANKS

    Cinematographer, Another Day in New York

    1st A.C., So Help Me God & The Temptation of Loneliness

  • “Western Star provided easily one of the best experiences I've had with a film. Everything from the audition process through production was incredibly smooth—any questions I had were answered immediately, and the shoot itself was unbelievably efficient. This was one of the most enjoyable, comfortable sets I have ever been on... I hope I'm lucky enough to get to work with them again in the future!”

    JOEL DE CANDIO

    Actor, Stick-Up

  • “What Joelle and Mia brought to this production is immeasurable. I couldn’t have asked for a more intelligent and creative duo by my side as we navigated this production. They went above and beyond in every possible way, and there’s not a doubt in my mind that those two have a bright future ahead of them."

    RYAN DELOUYA

    Writer & Producer, The Second Oldest Man Alive

  • "Joelle and Mia are two of the most diligent, hard-working people I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. They paid great attention to detail and ensured that shooting days operated smoothly. We did not have a single issue on set! The two of them were very diligent about making sure contracts and agreements were taken care of and provided astute feedback for different cuts of the project. I greatly look forward to working with them again!"

    NATE MILCHAN

    Executive Producer, Stick-Up

  • “I can honestly say it was an incredible experience start to finish. The founders, Joelle Westwood and Mia Lastrella, are hard-working, dedicated to their craft, and thorough with every aspect of production. If you bring them onto your next film, you won’t regret it.”

    SOPHIA CONGER

    Director, Inclusive Space and So Help Me God

within the company

  • “WSE offers a unique opportunity for growth and a behind-the-scenes look at the world of independent film production. Mia and Joelle lead with so much heart, and their passion shines through in every project. I was able to sharpen my marketing skills in the entertainment industry while being part of something truly meaningful. The future of WSEG is big, and I’m proud to have played a small role in the story—they’re building something special, and I’m grateful to have been along for the journey.”

    MADISON LONG

    Spring 2025 Intern at Western Star

  • “Western Star always values and respects my input and work. Working with them to analyze and improve film scripts, they are such great and professional people to work with, providing constructive screenplay workshop meetings that helped me advance my knowledge and skills in film and business development.”

    ROWAN ROSENBLUM

    Script Analyst, Western Star

  • “My internship at Western Star as a production assistant was an enriching experience. Mia and Joelle were incredible mentors, ensuring my tasks resonated with my interests. Their guidance made my time at Western Star both enjoyable and professionally rewarding. As an added bonus, the work they do is both culturally relevant and exciting.”

    KATE MCNINCH

    Fall 2023 Intern at Western Star