This post compiles a selection of the top 5 Stock Market movies. We’ve conducted thorough reviews and rated them on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being the highest rating. Our evaluation is based on factors such as popularity, content, and storyline. Below, you’ll find the list and the opportunity to acquire these DVDs if you haven’t already.
Rank 5: The Big Short (2015)
This Oscar-nominated film provides a compelling depiction of the causes behind the 2008 Stock Market crash. It adopts a unique style, resembling at times a documentary, at others a comedy, but predominantly a drama. The crisis resulted in 8 million people losing their jobs and homes. The movie narrates the story of four exceptional individuals in the financial world who foresaw the 2008 market crash. These individuals bet against the market when the entire world was bullish, earning substantial profits for their investors amidst the market turmoil. While they regretted the financial world’s collapse, they also acknowledged that the information was accessible to anyone. Experience the glamorous yet intricate world of finance by watching this film, although some financial jargon may be challenging for non-financial audiences.
Rank 4: Wall Street (1987)
“Wall Street” narrates the story of an ambitious and impatient stockbroker who will stop at nothing to climb to the top, even if it involves trading on illicit inside information obtained from a ruthless corporate raider. The character Gordon Gekko, with his slicked-back hair and infamous “greed-is-good” mantra, stands out as one of cinema’s iconic roles. Michael Douglas’s portrayal of Gekko earned him a well-deserved Oscar in 1988 and makes “Wall Street” essential viewing. The film follows a traditional plot structure: a young, aspiring individual is captivated by a successful elder, seduced, betrayed, and eventually seeks revenge. The specific plot details are less important than the character transformations we witness.
Rank 3: The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
This film is among the most renowned Stock Market movies, easily relatable even for those without a financial background. It recounts the true story of Jordan Belfort, from his ascent as a wealthy stockbroker living a lavish life to his descent involving crime, corruption, and government investigation. The movie offers Belfort’s perspective on his career as a New York City stockbroker and the rampant corruption and fraud perpetrated by his firm, Stratton Oakmont, on Wall Street, leading to his downfall. Martin Scorsese, the acclaimed director, maintains a consistently high level of energy and humor throughout the film. The movie never loses its momentum, much like its drug-fueled characters.
Rank 2: Margin Call (2011)
“Margin Call” is a gripping thriller that revolves around the key individuals at an investment bank during a 24-hour period in the early stages of the financial crisis. When an entry-level analyst uncovers information that could spell disaster for the firm, a roller-coaster ride of financial and moral decisions ensues, pushing everyone involved to the brink of disaster. The performances are exemplary, with actors such as Zachary Quinto and Demi Moore delivering top-notch performances. Even supporting characters receive substantial development in a film featuring such a diverse ensemble cast. You don’t need an extensive understanding of the markets to follow the film. The character John, for instance, is a poised Brit who prefers plain language, as his role involves managing the corporation rather than comprehending its business intricacies. In hindsight, even a recent college graduate could have foreseen Wall Street’s impending doom by analyzing the balance sheets. This film is a must-watch for all stock market enthusiasts.
Rank 1: Million Dollar Traders (2009)
Whether you’re an amateur or a professional trader, or even an aspiring one, this documentary series will leave you amazed. Comprising three episodes, it chronicles an experiment involving eight ordinary individuals who receive a million dollars, two weeks of intensive training, and two months to manage their own hedge fund. Can they succeed? As these novices learn the intricacies of trading stocks and shares, global financial markets begin to unravel. Making money becomes secondary to survival as the harsh realities of the global economy take their toll on the traders. This documentary authentically captures the experience of working in a real trading environment and demonstrates why trading isn’t suited for everyone. The traders’ journeys differ, with some experiencing unexpected crashes while others excel. The interactions among the traders and their responses to the stress of performance make this series truly compelling. Unlike narratives of investment fraud or financial crises, this documentary offers a glimpse into the lives of traders, making it highly relatable to those in the field. It’s no surprise that it claims the top position on our list.
Other noteworthy Stock Market movies that didn’t make our list but are definitely worth watching:
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