10 Movies About Business That You Should Watch

Business-themed films offer more than just entertainment; they provide insights into the world of entrepreneurship, corporate power, ethics, and the human side of success and failure. Whether you’re interested in finance, startups, or corporate dramas, these 10 films about business will inspire, challenge, and entertain you.

1. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, The Wolf of Wall Street is a wild ride through the life of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who rises to immense wealth through unscrupulous means. The film explores themes of greed, excess, and the high-stakes world of finance.

It’s a cautionary tale of what happens when the pursuit of money overrides morality, making it one of the most memorable films about business and Wall Street.

2. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Based on a true story, The Pursuit of Happyness follows Chris Gardner, played by Will Smith, as he struggles with homelessness while trying to build a better life for his son. Gardner’s determination to succeed as a stockbroker despite overwhelming odds is a touching portrayal of perseverance, grit, and the pursuit of success in the business world.

3. Jobs (2013)

Jobs is a biographical film about Steve Jobs, the visionary co-founder of Apple Inc. Starring Ashton Kutcher as Jobs, the film covers his rise from a college dropout to one of the most influential figures in technology and business.

It highlights his creativity, determination, and leadership style while also delving into the complexities of his personal and professional relationships.

4. Wall Street (1987)

Directed by Oliver Stone, Wall Street is a classic film about the ruthless world of finance. Michael Douglas stars as Gordon Gekko, a charismatic yet morally corrupt stockbroker who utters the famous line, “Greed is good.”

The film explores the lengths to which people will go to amass wealth and power and the consequences that follow.

5. Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps (2010)

A sequel to Wall Street, Money Never Sleeps continues the story of Gordon Gekko, this time set against the backdrop of the 2008 financial crisis. The film explores themes of redemption, family ties, and the global consequences of corporate greed.

Shia LaBeouf plays Jake Moore, a young trader who partners with Gekko to navigate the cutthroat world of finance.

6. The Social Network (2010)

Directed by David Fincher, The Social Network tells the story of the creation of Facebook and the personal and legal battles that followed. Jesse Eisenberg stars as Mark Zuckerberg, who revolutionizes social networking while navigating friendship betrayals and lawsuits.

The film delves into entrepreneurship, innovation, and the ethical dilemmas that come with massive success.

7. Margin Call (2011)

Set during the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis, Margin Call offers a tense, real-time look at a 24-hour period in an investment firm as executives scramble to save the company from collapse. Starring Kevin Spacey, Jeremy Irons, and Zachary Quinto, the film explores the ethical and financial decisions made in a high-pressure environment where billions are at stake.

8. The Company Men (2010)

The Company Men tells the story of corporate downsizing and its impact on the lives of employees at different levels. Starring Ben Affleck, Chris Cooper, and Tommy Lee Jones, the film examines the emotional and financial toll of layoffs, particularly in a recession.

It highlights the consequences of corporate decisions and the resilience required to rebuild one’s life after job loss.

9. The Firm (1993)

Based on John Grisham’s novel, The Firm stars Tom Cruise as Mitch McDeere, a Harvard Law graduate who joins a prestigious law firm, only to discover its dark secrets. The film is a thrilling exploration of corporate corruption, loyalty, and the moral dilemmas faced by professionals in high-stakes environments.

10. The Informant! (2009)

The Informant! is a darkly comedic film about corporate whistleblower Mark Whitacre, played by Matt Damon. Based on a true story, Whitacre exposes price-fixing at a major agribusiness corporation while battling his own personal and ethical struggles.

The film blends humor and drama, showing the complexities of corporate crime and the motivations behind exposing it.

Final Thoughts

These 10 films about business cover a wide range of themes, from the ethical dilemmas of corporate life to the personal sacrifices required for success.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or just enjoy a good business drama, these movies offer valuable lessons about ambition, innovation, and the human experience behind the numbers.

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