If you're fascinated by tales of wealth, ambition, and the pursuit of the almighty dollar, then this curated list of biographical films is just the ticket. These films delve into the lives of individuals who have shaped the world of finance, offering insights into their successes, failures, and the often controversial paths they took. Whether you're a finance enthusiast or just love a good rags-to-riches story, these movies provide a compelling look at the human side of money.

Wall Street (1987)
Description: This classic film follows a young stockbroker who becomes involved with a ruthless corporate raider. It's a cautionary tale about greed and the moral compromises made in the pursuit of wealth.
Fact: The famous line "Greed, for lack of a better word, is good" was improvised by Michael Douglas. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture.


The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: Based on the true story of Chris Gardner, this film showcases his struggle with homelessness while pursuing a career in stockbroking. It's an uplifting tale of perseverance and the American Dream.
Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the movie, mirroring their real-life relationship. The film's title misspells "Happiness" as a nod to a sign in the actual office where Gardner worked.


The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: Based on the memoir of Jordan Belfort, this film explores the excesses of the stockbroker who engaged in rampant corruption and fraud on Wall Street. It's a wild ride through the highs and lows of a man's quest for wealth and power.
Fact: The film was initially rated NC-17 due to its explicit content, but was edited down to an R rating. Leonardo DiCaprio improvised many of his lines, including the famous "I'm not leaving!" scene.


Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)
Description: This documentary examines the rise and fall of Enron, one of the most infamous corporate scandals in history. It's a cautionary tale about corporate culture, greed, and the lack of oversight.
Fact: The film was directed by Alex Gibney, who has made several acclaimed documentaries. It includes interviews with key figures involved in the Enron scandal.


Moneyball (2011)
Description: This film follows Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland A's, as he uses statistical analysis to assemble a competitive baseball team on a limited budget. It's a story about innovation in sports management and the power of data.
Fact: The film was adapted from Michael Lewis's book of the same name. Brad Pitt, who plays Beane, was also a producer on the film.


The Social Network (2010)
Description: This film explores the creation of Facebook and the legal battles that ensued. It's a modern-day tale of ambition, betrayal, and the complexities of digital entrepreneurship.
Fact: The film was shot in just 67 days. Aaron Sorkin's script was based on the book "The Accidental Billionaires" by Ben Mezrich.


The Big Short (2015)
Description: This film chronicles the financial crisis of 2007-2008, focusing on a group of investors who bet against the US housing market. It's a must-watch for understanding the complexities of financial markets and the human greed that can lead to economic collapse.
Fact: The film breaks the fourth wall, with characters directly addressing the audience to explain financial jargon. It also features celebrity cameos like Margot Robbie in a bathtub explaining mortgage-backed securities.


Joy (2015)
Description: This film is based on the life of Joy Mangano, an entrepreneur who invented the Miracle Mop. It's a story of innovation, family dynamics, and the challenges of bringing a product to market.
Fact: Jennifer Lawrence, who plays Joy, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance. The film was directed by David O. Russell, known for his collaborations with Lawrence.


The Founder (2016)
Description: This biopic tells the story of Ray Kroc, who turned McDonald's from a local burger joint into a global empire. It's a fascinating look at the entrepreneurial spirit and the sometimes ruthless tactics used to achieve success.
Fact: Michael Keaton, who plays Kroc, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance. The film was shot in various locations, including the original McDonald's in San Bernardino, California.


The Banker (2020)
Description: This film tells the story of two African American entrepreneurs who hire a white man to pose as the face of their real estate and banking business in the 1960s. It's a story of racial barriers and financial innovation.
Fact: The film was initially set for a theatrical release but was released on Apple TV+ due to the global health crisis. It stars Samuel L. Jackson and Anthony Mackie.
