New Money, the latest feature from Estonian writer-director-producer Rain Rannu, made its international debut during the 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival on November 14, 2023. This film, which follows Rannu’s previous work, Free Money, delves into the humorous and complex implications of suddenly acquiring a fortune, specifically 50 million euros, equivalent to approximately $58 million.
The film stars Märt Pius and Steffi Pähn, reprising their roles as the couple Taavi and Liisa. The supporting cast includes notable actors such as Ivo Uukkivi, Elina Masing, Edgar Vunš, and Keith Siilats. Produced by Rannu and Tõnu Hiielaid under the banner of Tallifornia, the film has attracted attention for its engaging premise and comedic elements.
The plot centers around a financially modest teacher and a humble IT specialist who, after agreeing to an interview, find their lives turned upside down. The synopsis describes their journey: “In a bid to inspire young minds about financial literacy, humble teacher Liisa and modest IT wizard Taavi agree to a tabloid interview. Their openness triggers a barrage of anonymous insults, unwanted offers, and indecent proposals, plus attracts a con artist.” Taavi soon grapples with the reality of becoming a millionaire in Bitcoin, leading to unforeseen complications.
Behind the Scenes of ‘New Money’
During the film’s promotional activities, Rannu shared insights about its development. He clarified that while New Money is not a direct sequel to Free Money, it offers a chance to further explore the beloved characters from the previous film. “When I made the last one, I really liked those two characters, and I thought that maybe it would be great to spend some more time with them,” Rannu explained. The actors responded positively to the idea, prompting an organic creative process.
Rannu also discussed his involvement in the film’s editing, emphasizing its significance. “I really enjoy the process, because in editing, you can make it or break it. There are so many things that you can do in editing, especially all those micro nuances – what to focus on more, what to focus on less,” he noted, highlighting the intricate nature of film production.
The film’s central theme resonates with a broader audience: “One of the themes of this movie was ‘more money, more problems’,” Rannu concluded. This reflective message serves as a humorous yet poignant commentary on the challenges that accompany sudden wealth.
Future Possibilities
As the film gains traction, Rannu hinted at the potential for a continuation of this universe. “A couple of good ideas are floating around already,” he mentioned, suggesting that future narratives could explore the lives of characters introduced in New Money.
With its blend of comedy and social commentary, New Money stands out as a significant entry in contemporary cinema, capturing the audience’s imagination with its exploration of the complexities surrounding wealth. The film is now accessible to global audiences, furthering discussions on financial literacy and the human experience.
For those interested in a glimpse of the film, a trailer for New Money is available online, showcasing its comedic tone and engaging storyline.
