Rich in Love

Behind the Scenes of Rich in Love (2020): Netflix’s Rom-Com with a Brazilian Twist

Rich in Love (2020) arrived on Netflix as a breezy Brazilian rom-com, blending class clashes with sun-soaked Rio de Janeiro charm. Directed by Bruno Garotti, the film follows Teto (Danilo Mesquita), a wealthy playboy who fakes poverty to win over Paula (Giovanna Lancellotti), a down-to-earth woman who despises privilege. But how did this lighthearted story come together? latestnetflix.com's view is that here’s what we know about the making of the movie—and its unexpected sequel.

The Cast: Chemistry and Star Power

The film’s success hinged on its leads, Danilo Mesquita and Giovanna Lancellotti, whose on-screen chemistry was a major selling point. Lancellotti, a rising star in Brazilian entertainment, brought a mix of warmth and wit to Paula, a character who refuses to be impressed by Teto’s wealth. In a behind-the-scenes featurette, she hinted at the fun of playing a character who challenges stereotypes: "Paula doesn’t care about money—she cares about authenticity, and that’s what makes her relatable".

Mesquita, meanwhile, leaned into Teto’s transformation from a spoiled rich kid to someone capable of genuine emotion. The actor’s comedic timing and physicality—especially in scenes where Teto struggles with manual labor—became a highlight of the film. Supporting players like Fernanda Paes Leme (as Teto’s sharp-tongued sister, Raquel) and Jaffar Bambirra (as Teto’s best friend, Igor) added depth to the ensemble, rounding out the film’s blend of romance and humor.

A Story of Class and Comedy

Rich in Love thrives on its fish-out-of-water premise, but the film’s real strength lies in its balance of humor and social commentary. Teto’s scheme to pose as a working-class guy forces him to confront the privileges he’s taken for granted—from struggling with basic chores to navigating relationships without his family’s wealth as a safety net. The film’s recap videos and plot summaries emphasize how this dynamic drives both the comedy and the emotional core of the story.

The movie’s Brazilian setting also plays a key role. Rio de Janeiro’s vibrant neighborhoods and beachside locales provide a picturesque backdrop, but the film doesn’t shy away from contrasting the city’s wealth disparities. While the tone remains lighthearted, the class divide between Teto and Paula is never treated as a mere plot device—it’s a central tension that gives the romance weight.

**The Surprise Sequel: *Rich in Love 2***

Given the original film’s popularity on Netflix, a sequel was all but inevitable. Rich in Love 2 (2023) reunites the core cast, with Lancellotti and Mesquita reprising their roles. The follow-up appears to double down on the first film’s formula, promising more romantic entanglements and comedic mishaps.

Trailers and promotional material suggest the sequel will explore Teto and Paula’s relationship post-reveal, along with new challenges—including the return of Raquel, whose scheming adds a layer of chaos. The sequel’s existence itself speaks to the original’s success, though early audience reactions (like the 4.5/10 rating on SensCritique for the first film) suggest mixed expectations.

What We Don’t Know (Yet)

Despite its popularity, Rich in Love hasn’t spawned the same level of behind-the-scenes buzz as some of Netflix’s bigger franchises. Details about the film’s budget, shooting schedule, or directorial challenges remain scarce. Rumors about on-set dynamics or improvisation—common in rom-coms—haven’t surfaced in available sources. If the cast or crew shared any juicy anecdotes, they’ve stayed under wraps for now.

One lingering question is whether the sequel will expand the story’s scope or simply rehash the original’s winning formula. With no official word on a third installment, fans may have to settle for what Rich in Love 2 delivers.