On January 30, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., Pitta & Baione LLP and Keep Good Company Records hosted a screening of 8:48: A Living Testimony of Life and Loss on 9/11 at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Directed by Kevin Lombardo, the music video/short film features lyrics by Pitta & Baione LLP partner Matthew Baione.
The film stars Keith W. Richards (Uncut Gems) and musician Ginger Winn, and was filmed at the St. George Theatre on Staten Island. St. George holds special significance as a union theater and is acknowledged in the film’s credits.
The venue’s restoration and reopening were championed by Borough President James Molinaro, to whom the film also pays tribute. Matthew notes that “it was especially meaningful to host our event at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.”
The Creative Team Behind the 8:48 Short Film
Keith W. Richards, a First Responder-turned actor, and musician Ginger Winn play the lead roles in 8:48. The firm’s Senior Advisor, Sal Cassano, was moved by and gave his blessing for the project.
Keith W. Richards
New Jersey native Keith W. Richards has a deep personal connection to the September 11 attacks, having been in Manhattan that day. As a First Responder, Richards and his colleagues worked tirelessly to assist victims. Pitta & Baione LLP later helped him secure compensation for injuries caused by exposure to toxic dust at Ground Zero.
Now an actor, Richards is best known for his debut role as “Phil” in Uncut Gems (2019), starring Adam Sandler. He was discovered on New York City’s “L” train by an associate of a casting director, who asked if he had ever acted before. Initially reluctant, Richards eventually agreed to audition, launching his acting career.
Uncut Gems went on to earn multiple award nominations, winning seven. Now a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), Richards required SAG approval to appear in 8:48: A Living Testimony. Given the profound impact of 9/11 on SAG workers, the creators hope the film also serves as a tribute to them.
Ginger Winn
South Carolina native Ginger Winn has been singing and writing songs since the age of nine. In 2022, she began working as a freelance music producer, commissioning pieces for clients who had song ideas or who wanted to gift songs to their loved ones. When she joined freelance platform Upwork, Winn’s first client became Tina Baione—Matthew’s wife—who also manages Keep Good Company Records.
Winn’s demo for the project was inspired by the concept of “ignorance is bliss”: a person rushing to work when everything suddenly stops as the curtain falls. For the film, she aimed to create a song reminiscent of a Christopher Nolan score—moving, orchestral, and profoundly impactful. Through the film’s message, the creators hope to express their deep empathy for those who never had the chance to say goodbye to their loved ones on that tragic day.
Matthew Baione
In his free time, Matthew Baione wrote poems that his wife, Tina, felt were too good to keep private. She enlisted Winn to transform his poetry into music, and the trio has been collaborating on music ever since.
Matthew’s creative side further proves his deep commitment to his clients’ cases. He hopes this short film conveys his heartfelt sympathies for those impacted by the tragic events of September 11.
Sal Cassano
To gauge the film’s impact, the Baiones first showed the film to Pitta & Baione LLP’s Senior Advisor Sal Cassano. Cassano, former Commissioner of the New York City Fire Department and a firefighter for 50 years—even working alongside Matthew’s grandfather at one point—was serving as Chief on September 11, 2001, and was present when the towers fell.
Matthew says, “If anyone was going to have an opinion on it, it would be him – and it gave him chills. He understands the importance of it. We would like to extend our gratitude to Sal Cassano, who was instrumental in making this possible.”
Audience Q&A
After the 8:48 screening, audience members had the opportunity to participate in an open Q&A with Matthew and Tina Baione, Christopher Baione, Richards, Winn, and producer David Baron. The discussion covered topics such as the concept behind the video and the challenges faced during its production.
Contact Pitta & Baione LLP if You Need Help Receiving 9/11-Related Benefits
The team at Pitta & Baione LLP is committed to helping individuals rebuild their lives after the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Contact us today for assistance with filing a claim or receiving benefits.
