MONEY TALK$ Review: The Psychology of Money
Hey, Siri, play "I Need a Dollar" by Aloe Blacc.
MONEY TALK$, a short film set in New York City in the 80s, is a perfect depiction of the psychology of money.
Writers Tony Mucci and David Mazouz have created a story to show how people behave when they come into money they did not expect to receive.
In MONEY TALK$, the main character is arguably a 100-dollar bill, while the other characters make guest appearances. We watch as this single bill makes people sing praises, risk their lives to buy drugs rather than pay off their debts, act like a puppet for the person holding the bill at that time, be gluttonous, careless, and generous.
The fast-paced nature and experimental shots give the short film a music video feel, something director Tony Mucci has clear experience in. As someone who appreciates the creativity behind many iconic music videos, I found it exciting to see how Mucci brought these creative choices to a 30-minute runtime.
In addition, the ode to great filmmakers from New York City, like Spike Lee’s famous dolly shot as the prostitute glides down the hallway, the strip club being named “Spike’s”, and Francesca Scorsese, Martin Scorsese’s daughter, in the classic Taxi Driver opening scene, were standout moments for super-fans, while being vibrant, relevant, and necessary for the average viewer.
As the film leaps from one scene to another, it maintains a great energy, keeping the tone consistent and the world revolving around money.
Catch this short at the Tribeca Film Festival, premiering June 14th!
“Use your money however you please. For God has endowed all with life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” — MONEY TALK$ closing monologue