If you’re a fan of finance, or just love a good movie, then you’re in luck. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best finance movies of all time. From dramas to documentaries, this list has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Must-Watch Finance Movies
If you’re looking for the most compelling and entertaining finance movies out there, look no further than this list. These movies are sure to impress and leave you thinking.
The Big Short (2015) – Based on Michael Lewis’s book of the same name, “The Big Short” tells the story of the 2008 financial crisis through the lens of a group of investors who bet against the housing market. With a star-studded cast, including Christian Bale, Steve Carell, and Ryan Gosling, this movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in finance.
A Beautiful Mind (2001) – Starring Russell Crowe, “A Beautiful Mind” tells the story of Nobel Laureate John Nash, a mathematician who made groundbreaking contributions to game theory, but also struggled with mental illness. The movie explores Nash’s life and career, and how his struggles affected his work.
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) – Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, “The Wolf of Wall Street” is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, a former stockbroker who ran a fraudulent penny stock operation in the 1990s. The movie is known for its high-energy style and over-the-top performances.
Good Finance Movies on Netflix
If you’re a Netflix subscriber, you’ll be happy to know that the streaming service has a great selection of finance movies to choose from. Here are some of the best:
Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005) – Based on the book of the same name by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind, “Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room” explores the rise and fall of Enron, one of the largest corporate frauds in history.
The Social Dilemma (2020) – While not strictly a finance movie, “The Social Dilemma” explores the impact of social media on our lives, including its effects on democracy, mental health, and our personal data. The movie features interviews with tech insiders who helped create the industry.
Money, Explained (2021) – A documentary series narrated by Tiffany Haddish, “Money, Explained” explores the world of money, including topics like credit cards, scams, and student loans. The series is informative, entertaining, and easy to follow.
Finance Movies Based on True Stories
For those who enjoy real-life stories, here are some of the best finance movies based on true events:
The Insider (1999) – Directed by Michael Mann and starring Al Pacino and Russell Crowe, “The Insider” tells the story of Jeffrey Wigand, a former tobacco industry insider who became a whistleblower and exposed the industry’s practices.
Catch Me If You Can (2002) – Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks, “Catch Me If You Can” is based on the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a con artist who posed as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer, among other professions. The movie explores Abagnale’s life and his eventual capture by the FBI.
Too Big to Fail (2011) – Based on the book of the same name by Andrew Ross Sorkin, “Too Big to Fail” explores the events leading up to the 2008 financial crisis and the government’s response. With an all-star cast, including William Hurt, Paul Giamatti, and James Woods, this movie is a gripping portrayal of a pivotal moment in recent history.
Best Wall Street Movies of All Time
Wall Street has been the subject of many great finance movies over the years. Here are some of the best:
Wall Street (1987) – Directed by Oliver Stone and starring Michael Douglas and Charlie Sheen, “Wall Street” is a classic movie about the world of finance and greed. The movie features one of the most famous lines in movie history: “Greed, for lack of a better word, is good.”
Margin Call (2011) – Starring Kevin Spacey, Jeremy Irons, and Zachary Quinto, “Margin Call” is a fictionalized account of the events leading up to the 2008 financial crisis. The movie explores the moral and ethical implications of the financial industry’s actions.
Inside Job (2010) – A documentary narrated by Matt Damon, “Inside Job” explores the causes and consequences of the 2008 financial crisis, and the role of the financial industry in creating it.
Most Accurate Finance Movie
While many finance movies take liberties with the truth for the sake of drama, some strive for accuracy. Here’s the most accurate finance movie:
The Queen of Versailles (2012) – A documentary directed by Lauren Greenfield, “The Queen of Versailles” follows the lives of David and Jackie Siegel, a wealthy couple who set out to build the largest house in America. However, when the 2008 financial crisis hits, their plans are derailed. The movie is a fascinating look at the excesses of the wealthy and the impact of the financial crisis.
Finance Movies on International Markets
While many finance movies focus on Wall Street, there are plenty of great movies that explore international markets. Here are some of the best:
City of God (2002) – A Brazilian crime drama set in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, “City of God” explores the lives of young people caught up in the drug trade. The movie is a gritty and realistic portrayal of life in the favelas.
The Big Picture (1989) – Starring Kevin Bacon and directed by Christopher Guest, “The Big Picture” is a satirical look at the world of Hollywood, and how the industry values money over talent.
The Motorcycle Diaries (2004) – Based on the memoirs of Ernesto “Che” Guevara, “The Motorcycle Diaries” follows Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado as they travel through South America in the early 1950s. The movie is a powerful look at the social and political realities of the region at the time.
Finance Movies for Beginners
If you’re new to the world of finance movies, here are some great movies to start with:
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) – Starring Will Smith, “The Pursuit of Happyness” tells the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his son. The movie is a powerful tale of perseverance and determination.
The Company Men (2010) – Starring Ben Affleck, Chris Cooper, and Tommy Lee Jones, “The Company Men” tells the story of three men who lose their jobs in a corporate downsizing. The movie is a poignant exploration of the impact of the recession on everyday people.
The Secret of My Success (1987) – Starring Michael J. Fox, “The Secret of My Success” is a comedy about a young man who moves to New York City to climb the corporate ladder. While not entirely realistic, the movie is a fun and entertaining look at the world of business.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a finance expert or just looking for some entertainment, finance movies offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of money and business. From classics like “The Godfather” and “Wall Street” to modern favorites like “The Big Short” and “The Wolf of Wall Street,” there’s a finance movie out there for everyone.
We hope our list of the best finance movies of all time has given you some ideas for your next movie night. Whether you’re interested in true stories, international markets, or Hollywood satire, there’s something on this list for you. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the show!
