Film News Today — August 16, 2026
‘Shame and Money’ Director on Sundance-Winning Drama About a Kosovo Family in Free Fall: ‘It’s a Look Into the Past and a Warning to the Future’ and more — today's film signal.
The world of film is abuzz with exciting new developments and releases. The Sundance-winning drama "Shame and Money" is making waves, with its director offering a poignant look into the lives of a Kosovo family in free fall. This powerful film serves as both a reflection of the past and a warning for the future. Meanwhile, production has begun on "Pralay," a new film starring Ranveer Singh and Kalyani Priyadarshan, which promises to bring a fresh perspective to the big screen.
From established filmmakers to emerging talent, there's no shortage of innovative storytelling happening in the film industry. The makers of "Lanterns" are redefining the superhero genre with their grounded approach, while industry veterans like Christine Vachon are pushing the boundaries of what's possible with films like "Trainspotting" and "The Wicker Man" in the 2026 greenlight test. International film festivals are also shining a spotlight on new talent, with Florin Şerban's "You Don't Belong Here" taking home the Golden Leopard at Locarno and Diego Luna, Nicolas Pereda, and Rodrigo Plá set to compete at Mexico's Morelia Film Festival. With so many compelling stories and projects in the works, it's an exciting time to be a film enthusiast.
Today's signal:
• ‘Shame and Money’ Director on Sundance-Winning Drama About a Kosovo Family in Free Fall: ‘It’s a Look Into the Past and a Warning to the Future’ (variety.com)
• Ranveer Singh, Kalyani Priyadarshan’s ‘Pralay,’ Produced by Ananya Birla and Hansal Mehta, Directed by Jai Mehta, Starts Filming (variety.com)
• ‘Lanterns’ Bosses and Stars on How the Show’s Grounded Approach Ushers in an ‘Entirely Different Kind of Superhero’ (variety.com)
• ‘How the F— Would You Get This Movie Made in America?’ Christine Vachon, Film4, BBC Film Put ‘Trainspotting,’ ‘Ratcatcher’ and ‘The Wicker Man’ Through the 2026 Greenlight Test (variety.com)
• Florin Şerban’s ‘You Don’t Belong Here’ Wins Golden Leopard at Locarno, as Monica Bellucci and Kim Minhee Take Acting Awards (variety.com)
• Diego Luna, Nicolas Pereda and Rodrigo Plá Set for Competition at Mexico’s Morelia Film Festival (variety.com)