The film centres on Rafa, played by Nuñez, a devoted physical therapist who looks forward to spending his retirement travelling the world. However, his long-awaited freedom takes a devastating turn when he is diagnosed with a terminal illness on his first day of retirement.
Faced with the prospect of a life cut short, Rafa makes an extraordinary request of his wife, Aida, a nurse portrayed by Forte. He asks her to end his suffering, provided he remains unaware of when it will happen. His plea sets the stage for a story that explores love, mortality and the complicated choices that emerge when a family confronts the prospect of losing a loved one.
Marrero plays Gabriela, while Ruiz takes on the role of Maria, rounding out the principal cast of the film, which seeks to balance the emotional weight of its subject matter with elements of dark humour.
For Cardenas, the project carries particular significance, as it marks both his first feature film as a director and an opportunity to make a film in his hometown. Before pursuing a career in Hollywood, he played Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs.
Reflecting on the production, Cardenas expressed gratitude to his cast for embracing the material and helping bring its distinctive tone to life.
“Making this movie in my hometown of Miami with Oscar, Marlene, Vivian, and Otmara was a dream,” he said.
He added that the actors’ willingness to connect with the script helped shape the production, particularly given the challenge of balancing comedy with serious dramatic themes.
“I’m grateful the script resonated with them and that they trusted me to guide them as they so skillfully navigated the tonal tightrope between dark comedy and drama,” Cardenas said.
He further praised the cast’s contributions beyond their performances, noting that their professionalism and generosity helped foster a strong sense of camaraderie among the production team.
“Their talent and generosity extended beyond their performances, setting the tone for a cast and crew that became family in the process,” he added.
In an Orderly Fashion is produced by Maria Altamirano, with Heidi Stolte, Chris Stolte, Sven Voelcker, Ann Lewnes, Daniel Weiser, Sharon Greene, Nuñez and Forte serving as executive producers. Tyler Bagley, Barker Carlock and Derrick Nevot are attached as co-producers.
The film brings together a cast with experience across television and cinema. Nuñez is known for his work on The Office and The Paper, while Forte has appeared in The Rookie and Star Trek. Marrero’s credits include Florida Man and StartUp, while Ruiz has featured in Bloodline and Pain & Gain.
Nuñez is represented by Omnipop Talent Group and Artists & Representatives. Forte is represented by BRS/Gage and Rothman Andres Entertainment, while Marrero is represented by Luber Roklin Entertainment. Cardenas is represented by Range Media Partners.
With principal photography now complete, In an Orderly Fashion marks a new chapter in Cardenas’ career, bringing together a Miami-based production, an experienced ensemble and a story that examines the difficult intersection of devotion, personal choice and the uncertainty of life’s final chapter.