Top 10 Best Finance Movies Every Money Enthusiast Should Watch
Finance movies offer more than just entertainment—they dive into the complexities of money, greed, power, and human psychology in the world of business and trading. Whether you're in the industry or just curious, these films are as thrilling as they are educational. Here’s our curated list of the ten best finance movies every money enthusiast needs to watch.
1. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who rises to wealth and fame by exploiting the system. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film showcases Belfort’s journey through Wall Street, highlighting greed, power, and consequences. It’s a thrilling, cautionary tale about the darker side of finance.
2. The Big Short (2015)
This film explains the 2008 financial crisis from the perspective of outsiders who saw it coming. With a cast including Christian Bale and Steve Carell, it breaks down complex financial concepts through humor and unique storytelling, making a tough subject entertaining and enlightening.
3. Margin Call (2011)
Set in a 24-hour period at an investment bank during the onset of the 2008 crisis, Margin Call follows employees as they uncover the firm’s risky exposure. The film dives into the human side of finance, showing the tough moral choices that arise in times of financial panic.
4. Wall Street (1987)
A classic finance film, Wall Street stars Michael Douglas as the iconic Gordon Gekko, a ruthless stockbroker who takes young Bud Fox under his wing. Known for its famous line, “Greed is good,” it explores ambition and ethics in the high-stakes world of finance.
5. Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps (2010)
In this sequel, Gekko returns from prison and navigates both personal and financial redemption during the 2008 crisis. It provides a look at how the industry and its players have changed over time, offering a modern take on the legendary character and his world.
6. Boiler Room (2000)
This film follows a young man lured into the high-stakes world of stock trading at a shady brokerage firm. Featuring Giovanni Ribisi and Vin Diesel, Boiler Room explores the temptation of fast money and the blurred ethics in the pursuit of success.
7. Too Big to Fail (2011)
Based on Andrew Ross Sorkin’s book, this HBO film provides an inside look at government and banking leaders’ frantic efforts to save the economy during the 2008 crisis. It captures the intensity and urgency of decision-making at the highest levels.
8. Rogue Trader (1999)
Rogue Trader tells the true story of Nick Leeson, the derivatives trader who single-handedly brought down Barings Bank with unauthorized trades. It’s a gripping tale of ambition and the devastating effects of unchecked risk-taking.
9. Inside Job (2010)
This Oscar-winning documentary, narrated by Matt Damon, examines the causes and players behind the 2008 financial crisis. Through interviews with experts, Inside Job provides a clear, detailed look at the systemic issues and lack of accountability that fueled the collapse.
10. Trading Places (1983)
This comedy, starring Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd, tells the story of a wealthy broker and a street hustler who swap roles. Trading Places is both funny and insightful, using satire to explore class, privilege, and money in a fresh way that resonates even today.
Final Thoughts
Each of these films provides a unique lens into finance, from thrilling dramas to comedies and documentaries. They showcase the risks, rewards, and moral dilemmas that define the world of money and power, making them essential viewing for any finance enthusiast.