Samarth I Kenya Barris directs a nostalgic short film for Coca-Cola, highlighting the brand’s evolution through a family’s journey from 1975 to 2025.
In a compelling new campaign, Coca-Cola revisits its rich history through the lens of a family-run convenience store, spanning five decades from 1975 to 2025. Directed by Kenya Barris, creator of “Black-ish,” the six-minute short film, “Westside’s Finest,” offers a poignant narrative that intertwines the brand’s evolution with the changing dynamics of family and community.
The film opens in 1975, introducing Charles and his wife as they establish their corner store, serving classic Coca-Cola products. As the narrative progresses, viewers witness the store’s transformation alongside cultural shifts: the advent of New Coke in the 1980s, the rise of hip-hop in the 1990s, and the digital age’s impact in the 2000s. Each vignette features authentic period-specific packaging, including nods to discontinued products like TaB, underscoring the brand’s enduring presence.
Barris, who also appears in the film alongside his family, emphasizes the campaign’s focus on “family, small business, and community,” highlighting both the constants and changes over the years. The ensemble cast features Lauren London, Omari Hardwick, Lionel Boyce, and Nelson Franklin, each portraying characters that embody the evolving spirit of the store and its patrons.
This initiative marks the second installment of Coca-Cola’s “Proud Sponsors” campaign, following last year’s collaboration with “The Bear” creator Christopher Storer. The series aims to celebrate the brand’s diverse portfolio and its role in various cultural moments. Alex Ames, Senior Director of Creative at Coca-Cola North America, notes the company’s commitment to granting filmmakers creative freedom, allowing them to authentically represent the brand’s legacy.
“Westside’s Finest” is set to air across multiple platforms, including television, digital, and social media, ensuring its reach to a broad audience. The campaign not only serves as a nostalgic tribute to Coca-Cola’s history but also reinforces its ongoing connection to consumers through shared experiences and timeless refreshment.
