This curated list of ten thriller films delves into the harrowing world of debt, where characters are pushed to their limits by financial burdens. From psychological tension to high-stakes action, these movies offer a thrilling exploration of the consequences of owing money, making for an intense viewing experience that resonates with the universal fear of financial ruin.

The Bank Job (2008)
Description: A group of criminals plan a heist to rob a bank, but their actions lead to uncovering secrets that involve high-level debts and political corruption.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the real-life Baker Street robbery in London in


The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: While primarily about excess, the film also delves into the consequences of financial misconduct and the debts incurred through fraudulent schemes.
Fact: Based on the memoir by Jordan Belfort, the film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


The Debt Collector 2 (2020)
Description: The sequel to "The Debt Collector," this film sees the return of the debt collectors as they navigate through even more perilous assignments.
Fact: Louis Mandylor, who plays the character Tommy, is also known for his role in the "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" franchise.


The Card Counter (2021)
Description: A former military interrogator turned gambler uses his skills to pay off his debts, but his past catches up with him, leading to a tense confrontation.
Fact: Directed by Paul Schrader, who also wrote the screenplay, the film stars Oscar Isaac and explores themes of guilt and redemption.


The Debt (2010)
Description: While not directly about financial debt, this film deals with the moral and emotional debts incurred by former Mossad agents who must confront their past.
Fact: The film features a dual timeline narrative and stars Helen Mirren, Sam Worthington, and Jessica Chastain.


The Big Short (2015)
Description: This film explores the financial crisis of 2007-2008, focusing on the people who predicted the collapse and bet against the housing market, leading to massive financial debts.
Fact: The movie uses innovative techniques to explain complex financial concepts, including celebrity cameos to break the fourth wall.


The Drop (2014)
Description: A bartender finds himself in deep trouble when he's forced to rob his own bar, which is used as a money drop for local mobsters, leading to a web of debts and deceit.
Fact: This was the final film role for James Gandolfini, who died shortly after filming.


The Gambler (2014)
Description: Mark Wahlberg plays a literature professor with a gambling addiction, whose debts spiral out of control, leading him into a dangerous underworld.
Fact: This is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, and features a strong supporting cast including John Goodman and Jessica Lange.


The Debt Collector (2018)
Description: This film follows a debt collector who finds himself in over his head when he's tasked with collecting from a dangerous client, leading to a series of violent encounters.
Fact: The film was directed by Jesse V. Johnson, known for his work in action films, and stars Scott Adkins, a martial arts expert.


Uncut Gems (2019)
Description: Adam Sandler plays a New York City jeweler with a gambling addiction whose debts lead him into increasingly dangerous situations.
Fact: The Safdie brothers, who directed the film, are known for their gritty, realistic portrayal of urban life.
