Oscilloscope Laboratories has secured the North American rights for Visar Morina’s critically acclaimed film “Shame and Money.” The film, which won the Grand Jury Prize in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at the Sundance Film Festival, is now eligible to contend for the Oscar for International Feature Film, thanks to new Academy regulations.
Upcoming Theatrical Release
Oscilloscope is planning to release the film in theaters in early 2027.
Plot Overview
Starring Astrit Kabashi, Flonja Kodheli, Kumrije Hoxa, Fiona Gllavica, and Alban Ukaj, “Shame and Money” is co-written by Morina and Doruntina Basha. The story follows a couple in their 40s living with their extended family on a rural farm in Kosovo, struggling to make ends meet. After a family conflict leads to the loss of their livelihood, they must relocate to Pristina, where they face the daunting pressure of providing for their loved ones amidst financial instability.
Thematic Insights
Morina reflects on the film’s relevance, stating, “In times when the majority of people worldwide are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet, I believe we need a kind of class consciousness, and I hope our film makes a small contribution toward that.”
Industry Reception
Oscilloscope president Dan Berger praised Morina’s portrayal of the family, commenting, “Visar has drawn a portrait of a family that is subtle, searingly real and ultimately humane. We feel as one with the characters and their struggles, fully signed on for this indictment of an economic system constructed to keep too many people down.”
Production Team and International Sales
The film is produced by Fabian Altenried, Sophie Ahrens, and Kristof Gerega from Schuldenberg Films, alongside Pia Hellenthal and Morina. International rights have also been sold to several territories via The Yellow Affair, including France (Arizona Distribution), Indonesia (Falcon), Spain (Mirror Audiovisual), Switzerland (Trigon), and Turkey (Filmarti). Additionally, the film had its theatrical release in Germany in September by Eksystent Filmverleih.
Awards and Recognition
“Shame and Money” has garnered significant accolades since its debut at Sundance, including the Cinemasters Jury Prize at FilmFest Munich, as well as awards for best film and best actor at Prifest Kosovo. The film also won four awards at the ODA Film Festival, including best movie, actress, actor, and script.
Director’s Previous Work
This marks Morina’s third feature film, following his previous works “Exile” and “Babai.” He is represented by Cinetic Media, signaling a promising trajectory in his filmmaking career.
