Nedbank launches 2026 'Money Relationships' campaign with Zee Ntuli-directed mini-drama about the dangers of debt and gambling

The film tells the story of Sam, an ambitious young man who earns a promotion and a substantially bigger pay cheque. Alongside his success appears a seemingly supportive companion, who encourages him to embrace the high life. But a range of bad financial decisions lead to worse consequences, and Sam’s future begins to unravel, as he resorts to reckless borrowing and illegal gambling. He ends up alone in a seedy motel room and it’s revealed that his seductive “friend” character is the personification of his relationship with money.

Shot by director Zee Ntuli of Darling Films, the piece documents the Icarus-like journey of Sam’s fall from grace. Sam’s relationship with the ever-present “friend” becomes increasing uneasy, aided by filmic techniques including the use of mirrors throughout the film. An observant viewer might notice that the friend is suspiciously missing in reflections, until the final scene makes it overt, and Sam finds himself alone, left to take responsibility for his own choices. The craft extends into the soundtrack by TigerFight’s Chris Laco Snyman, composed from money-related sounds to make music, including using a coin as a guitar pick.

“It’s a visceral way to make people reassess their own relationship with money,” says Joe Public ECD Martin Schlumpf. “Zee brought his longform skills to the script to give a distinctly cinematic, thriller feel. By drawing the audience into what seems like a Netflix drama, we set them up with what appears to be a desirable lifestyle, but then show the consequences of trying to keep up with expectations – being trapped in cycles of debt, reckless lending or illegal gambling.”

The film launches Nedbank’s 2026 brand campaign – “Money Relationships”. It invites South Africans to look beyond budgets and bank balances, encouraging a deeper conversation about the role money plays in our lives. Like any relationship it has the power to shape our choices, influence our wellbeing and determine the future we build.

“With this campaign, we want to spark a national conversation about the way South Africans think, feel and talk about money,” adds Nedbank’s executive of marketing and corporate affairs, Khensani Nobanda. “By encouraging honest reflection, regular financial check-ins and healthier money habits, we hope to help people move beyond simply surviving the month towards building lasting financial wellbeing.”

The bank believes that money, when well-managed, creates better lives and opportunities. Through the rest of the campaign, they’ll be offering customers the tools and advice to improve their relationships with money. And for those who need it, there is Nedbank Debt Assistance available at 0801114949.