Film Foundation-funded film “Shame and Money” premieres at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival

On Thursday, January 22, the 2026 Sundance Film Festival (January 22–February 1) opens in Park City, Utah. The Film- und Medienstiftung NRW is represented this year with a film it has funded: the drama “Shame and Money” by Visar Morina will premiere in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition.

“Shame and Money” tells the story of a Kosovar family who, after losing their livelihood in a village, are forced to move to the capital, Pristina. In a hyper-capitalist society, Hatixhe and Shaban, together with their children, struggle for stability, dignity, and a secure livelihood. While Shaban, as the traditional head of the family, tries to maintain his role as provider, he comes under increasing pressure—caught between wounded pride, family dependencies, and the question of how much strain a person can bear. The film paints a precise and empathetic portrait of people striving for a dignified life amid constant economic and social tensions.

Visar Morina, who previously presented “Exile” at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, directed and wrote the screenplay. Astrit Kabashi and Flonja Kodheli deliver compelling performances in the lead roles as Shaban and Hatixhe. The film was produced by Vicky Bane in co-production with Schuldenberg Films, Eagle Eye Production, and On Film Production. eksystent is handling German distribution. The Film- und Medienstiftung NRW supported the production with 100,000 euros as well as the Baumi Award. The award is presented by the founders—Pandora Film, the Baumgartner family, and the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW—together with a guest juror who changes annually, in memory of producer Karl “Baumi” Baumgartner.

The world premiere of “Shame and Money” will take place on January 25, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. (MST) at the Library Center Theatre in Park City. Additional screenings will follow in Park City and Salt Lake City. The film will also be available online as part of the Sundance Film Festival for the general public as well as accredited press and industry representatives.

The Sundance Film Festival is one of the world’s most important platforms for independent cinema and is considered a major springboard for international filmmakers.

For more information, visit www.sundance.org.