New Money Film Explores the Dark Side of a Sudden €50 Million Windfall

A new Estonian comedy-drama asks what happens after you win the lottery. “New Money” premiered internationally at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. The film is director Rain Rannu’s follow-up to his 2023 hit “Free Money.”

It revisits the lives of a regular couple, Taavi and Liisa, who suddenly became extremely wealthy. Their story continues as they navigate the overwhelming consequences of their newfound fortune.

From Financial Literacy to a Flood of Problems

The couple’s life turns chaotic after a simple newspaper interview. Their attempt to inspire others backfires spectacularly. They face a barrage of insults, offers, and indecent proposals from strangers.

A cunning con artist also enters their lives, drawn by their wealth. Taavi, a modest IT expert, soon regrets the day his Bitcoin investment made him a multi-millionaire. According to festival reports, the film’s premiere drew a packed house and constant laughter.

More Money, More Problems

Director Rain Rannu clarified that the new film is not a direct sequel. He simply enjoyed the characters so much he wanted to spend more time with them. The organic process led to this new story exploring the headaches of immense wealth.

Rannu co-edited the film, a process he finds crucial for shaping the story’s nuances. One key theme is clear from the plot. The filmmaker concluded that the movie’s big-picture takeaway is the classic adage: more money, more problems.

The “New Money” film provides a hilarious yet thoughtful look at a modern dilemma. Its international festival debut marks a significant moment for Baltic cinema. This story proves that sudden wealth can be a curse in disguise.

Thought you’d like to know

Is “New Money” a direct sequel to “Free Money”?

Director Rain Rannu says it is not a strict sequel. He brought the characters back because he enjoyed them and wanted to explore their story further. The project came together organically after the actors agreed to return.

Who are the main actors in the new film?

Märt Pius and Steffi Pähn reprise their roles as the couple Taavi and Liisa. They are joined by co-stars including Ivo Uukkivi and Elina Masing from the previous film.

What is the central conflict in “New Money”?

The couple’s life is upended after a tabloid interview about their wealth. They are flooded with unwanted attention, insults, and offers, including from a dangerous con artist.

Where did the international premiere take place?

The film had its international premiere in the Baltic Competition at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. The festival is currently holding its 29th edition.

Could there be a third film with these characters?

Director Rain Rannu has hinted at the possibility. He mentioned that a couple of good ideas are already floating around for future stories in this universe.