The latest film from Estonian writer-director-producer Rain Rannu, titled New Money, explores the humorous yet complicated realities of sudden wealth. The film premiered internationally on November 14, 2023, at the 29th edition of the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, attracting a lively audience that responded with laughter to its comedic take on financial windfalls.
In New Money, the story revolves around a humble teacher, Liisa, and her modest IT wizard partner, Taavi, portrayed once again by Märt Pius and Steffi Pähn, respectively. The couple’s lives take an unexpected turn when they agree to a tabloid interview, which triggers a flurry of anonymous insults, unsolicited offers, and indecent proposals. The central conflict arises when Taavi regrets his new status as a millionaire, possessing 50 million euros in Bitcoin.
Rannu describes the film as not a direct sequel to his previous dramedy, Free Money, but rather a continuation of the characters’ journey. He expressed his fondness for the duo, stating, “I really liked those two characters, and I thought that maybe it would be great to spend some more time with them.” After sharing a script with the actors, their enthusiastic agreement led to the film’s development, highlighting a collaborative and organic creative process.
As the narrative unfolds, the couple encounters various challenges linked to their newfound wealth, encapsulating the theme of “more money, more problems.” Rannu emphasized that one of the significant takeaways from the film is the complications that arise from unexpected riches.
The production team, which includes the company Tallifornia, shared anecdotes from the filming process, including experiences in Miami, which plays a significant role in the storyline. Rannu also took on the role of co-editor for New Money, enjoying the nuances of editing and its critical impact on storytelling. He noted, “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.”
Looking ahead, Rannu hinted at the possibility of expanding the universe of Free Money and New Money. “A couple of good ideas are floating around already,” he revealed, suggesting potential narratives that could delve deeper into the lives of the characters introduced in this latest film.
With its blend of comedy and insightful commentary on financial literacy, New Money promises to resonate with audiences. The film’s exploration of the absurdities that accompany sudden wealth serves as both a cautionary tale and a source of entertainment. For those intrigued by the concept, a trailer for New Money is available for viewing online.
