Are you looking to learn about investing and finance while being entertained? Look no further! The team at Equity Mates has compiled a list of a list of some of the best investing and finance movies that we’ve come across.
These must-watch investment movies feature themes of Wall Street, finance, stock markets, scams, and money. These movies not only offer valuable insights, but also provide an entertaining and engaging way to learn about the world of investing and finance. So grab the popcorn and get ready to learn and be entertained at the same time!
The Inside Job (2010)
Recommended by: Bryce (CEO and Co-Founder of Equity Mates Media)
Director: Charles Ferguson
Narrated by: Matt Damon
The Inside Job is a documentary film that explores the financial crisis of 2008 and the role that Wall Street played in causing it. It’s narrated by Matt Damon, and warning: it may get your blood boiling!
The film begins by explaining how the financial industry, specifically investment banks, played a major role in the housing market crash of 2008. It highlights how these banks created and sold complex financial products, and these products were sold to investors with the promise that they were safe, but in reality, they were highly risky.
It explores the role of credit rating agencies, which were supposed to provide unbiased assessments of the risk of these financial products, but instead gave them high ratings in order to win business from the banks.
The film highlights how the crisis was not just the fault of a few rogue actors, but rather a systemic problem caused by a culture of greed and lack of oversight in the financial industry. It also explores the lack of accountability for those who caused the crisis, and how many of the same individuals and institutions continue to play a major role in the global economy.
If you’ve always wondered what the GFC was really about, then this is for you! Gripping.
Margin Call (2011)
Recommended by: Simon (Head of Product)
Director: J. C. Chandor
Staring: Kevin Spacey, Simon Baker, Demi Moore
Margin Call is an intense and critically acclaimed film that delves into the high-stakes world of finance. The movie follows the actions of a group of executives at an investment bank as they race to save their firm from the brink of collapse.
Set in the early days of the 2008 financial crisis, the film provides a gripping and accurate portrayal of the events that led up to it. The film is a great blend of drama and financial insights as it follows the characters as they navigate the complex world of investment banking and try to find a way to save their company.
The film features an all-star cast, including Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Zachary Quinto, and Demi Moore. The performances are excellent and the dialogue is sharp and believable, making the film feel authentic and realistic. The film also does a great job of explaining the financial jargon, making it accessible to a wider audience. The movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in the world of finance and investing.
If you’re looking for a great movie to watch on investing and finance, Margin Call is definitely a top pick for me!
Wall Street (1987)
Recommended by: Alf (Head of Growth)
Director: Oliver Stone
Staring: Michael Douglas, Charlie Sheen, Tamara Tunie
Wall Street is a must-see for fans of finance-themed films. The film explores the cutthroat world of 1980s Wall Street. Michael Douglas gives a powerful performance as the ruthless corporate raider Gordon Gekko (he won Best Actor at the 1988 Academy Awards it) and the film raises important questions about the morality of greed and ambition.
The film is a reflection of the excess and greed that characterised the era in which it was made. The pacing is fast and the tension is palpable, making for a truly engaging viewing experience. The film also delves into the personal lives of the characters and the sacrifices they make in pursuit of success. It is a cautionary tale of how easily one can become consumed by ambition and lose sight of what truly matters in life. The film’s commentary on the finance industry is still relevant today, making it a timeless classic that is worth watching.
It’s worth watching for its strong performances and relevant commentary on the finance industry. And for some of it’s iconic lines such as “Blue Horseshoe loves Anacot Steel”.
The Big Short (2015)
Recommended by: Emily (Head of Partnerships)
Director: Adam McKay
Staring: Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling
The Big Short is a depiction of a group of analysts and individuals who saw the 2008 housing market crash coming and decided to bet against the inevitable crash by short selling subprime mortgages.
Whilst the depictions of Michael Burry and Mark Baum played by Christina Bale and Steve Carell respectively are phenomenal, personally I love the use of celebrities such as Margot Robbie and Selena Goes to explain complex financial concepts to the audience. Their roles breakup the otherwise serious subject matter and make the movie more engaging and entertaining to watch. Margot Robbie’s laissez-faire attitude in the bathtub is the perfect metaphor the financial industry took in their role contributing to the collapse of the housing market.
Humorous, fast-paced and entertaining, The Big Short is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the greed and corruption in the events that contributed to the 2008 financial crisis.
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Recommended by: Darcy (Content Producer)
Director: Martin Scorsese
Staring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Margot Robbie, Jonah Hill
The Wolf of Wall Street is a super entertaining watch. The movie tells the true story of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who rises to the top of Wall Street through some very shady and unethical practices. The acting is top-notch, with Leonardo DiCaprio delivering a powerful and charismatic performance as Belfort.
The Wolf of Wall Street serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and corruption in the financial industry. It highlights the importance of ethics and integrity in business, and serves as a reminder that the pursuit of wealth and success should never come at the expense of one’s values.
It also provides some education on the inner workings of the stock market and the world of high finance, and it is a great way to learn financial literacy. The film highlights the technicalities of stock trading and the manipulation of the market, and how the industry operates.
The Wolf of Wall Street is a must-watch film for anyone interested in finance, business, or the intricacies of the stock market.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Recommended by: Sascha (Head of Production)
Director: Gabriele Muccino
Staring: Will Smith, Thandiwe Newton, Jaden Smith
The Pursuit of Happyness is an American biographical drama film based on the true story of Chris Gardner’s rise from homelessness to becoming a successful stockbroker.
The film is a powerful and emotional portrayal of the struggles of poverty and the resilience of the human spirit. Will Smith gives an outstanding performance as Chris Gardner, capturing the character’s determination, frustration, and hope. The relationship between Chris and his son, portrayed by Jaden Smith, is also a highlight of the film, showing the strong bond between a father and his child even in the face of adversity.
The film also deals with themes of discrimination and the American Dream, showing the difficulties that people from disadvantaged backgrounds face in achieving success. It is a reminder that success is not a guarantee and requires hard work, determination, and perseverance.
In conclusion, The Pursuit of Happyness is a moving and inspiring film that tells the true story of a man who refused to give up in the face of adversity. It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to see a great movie that will leave them feeling uplifted and motivated.
Becoming Warren Buffett (2017)
Bonus Recommendation
Director: Peter W. Kunhardt
Writer: Chris Chuang
Warren Buffett, with a net worth of over $100 billion (2023), is a one-of-a-kind billionaire.
Despite his immense wealth, he maintains a humble lifestyle and continues to live in his modest home in Omaha. At the time of this film, at over 86 years old, he still drives to the office every day to manage Berkshire Hathaway, one of the largest public companies in the world.
The film documentary “Becoming Warren Buffett” delves into his life and career, highlighting his moral principles and integrity as key factors in his success. The film also explores the people who have influenced him and the philanthropic efforts he has undertaken, including the largest charitable donation in history.
The film offers a rare glimpse into Buffett’s unique mindset and highlights the importance of values and purpose beyond wealth.
Liked this review? Discover the best books on investing and finance with the Equity Mates team’s top picks. Learn valuable strategies and insights with our list of 7 of the best investing books. Check it out now!