10 Best Stock Market Movies and the Lessons They Teach

Movies have a unique way of capturing our attention, transporting us to different worlds, and leaving lasting impressions. Movies about the stock market can be both entertaining and educational, providing insights into the world of finance, the intricacies of trading and the ethical dilemmas faced by those in the industry.

I’ve put together a list of 10 best stock market movies that showcase common human behaviors like greed, fear, and herd mentality – things only psychology (and not finance!) can helps us understand.

Which ones have you watched and liked?

I’ll try not to give any spoilers 🙂

1. The Big Short (2015)

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IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 88%

What It’s About:
“The Big Short” is a biographical drama directed by Adam McKay. It’s based on the true story of a handful of investors who bet against the housing market before the 2008 financial crisis. Featuring Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt, the movie dives deep into the complex world of finance and the chaos that ensued.

Lessons Learned:

  • Spotting Bubbles: Learn to identify financial bubbles and understand the risks they carry. Speaking of financial bubbles, have you already read about the “Tulip Mania” in the 17th century? No? Well, then check this post: https://financialmindscape.com/tulip-mania-when-holland-went-crazy-for-flowers/
  • Do Your Homework: Emphasizes the importance of thorough research before making investment decisions.
  • Risk Management: Shows the value of managing risk and considering different perspectives.

2. Wall Street (1987)

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IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 79%

What It’s About:
Directed by Oliver Stone, “Wall Street” stars Michael Douglas as the infamous Gordon Gekko and Charlie Sheen as the ambitious young broker Bud Fox. The film is a deep dive into the 1980s stock market culture, exploring the themes of greed and corporate corruption.

Lessons Learned:

  • Ethics Matter: The movie highlights the importance of ethical behavior in finance. Speaking of ethical behavior, have you already read about ESG? Again no lol? Well, then check this post: https://financialmindscape.com/what-is-esg-investing-a-dive-into-ethical-finance/
  • Influence of Mentors: Shows how mentors can shape your career and ethical standpoint.
  • Corporate Impact: Stresses the broader effects of corporate decisions.

3. Barbarians at the Gate (1993)

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IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: N/A

What It’s About:
This made-for-TV movie, directed by Glenn Jordan, tells the true story of the leveraged buyout of RJR Nabisco, starring James Garner as F. Ross Johnson, the company’s CEO, and Jonathan Pryce as Henry Kravis. It’s a humorous yet insightful look at the excesses of corporate America in the 1980s.

Lessons Learned:

  • Corporate Strategy: Offers a glimpse into the world of corporate takeovers and leveraged buyouts.
  • Due Diligence: Highlights the importance of thorough analysis and preparation.
  • Ethical Decisions: Showcases the impact of ethical and unethical decisions in business.

4. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

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IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 79%

What It’s About:
Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who engages in rampant corruption and fraud. The movie is a wild, high-energy depiction of excess and the wild lifestyle of Wall Street traders, featuring Jonah Hill and Margot Robbie in supporting roles.

Lessons Learned:

  • Don’t Cheat: A stark reminder of the severe consequences of unethical behavior.
  • Moderation is Key: Highlights the dangers of excess in both professional and personal life.
  • Regulations Matter: Underlines the importance of regulatory oversight.

5. Margin Call (2011)

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IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 87%

What It’s About:
Set during the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis, “Margin Call” is a tense thriller directed by J.C. Chandor. The film boasts an ensemble cast including Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, and Zachary Quinto, providing a gripping behind-the-scenes look at a large investment bank on the brink of collapse.

Lessons Learned:

  • Crisis Management: Offers insights into handling financial crises and making tough decisions.
  • Transparency: Highlights the importance of being transparent in financial dealings.
  • Responsibility: Emphasizes the responsibility of financial professionals.

6. Trading Places (1983)

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IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 87%

What It’s About:
A comedy classic directed by John Landis, “Trading Places” stars Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd as a street hustler and a wealthy broker whose lives are swapped as part of a bet. The film humorously explores social inequality and the mechanics of the commodities market.

Lessons Learned:

  • Equality Matters: Addresses social inequality and the role of opportunity.
  • Beware of Manipulation: Provides insights into market manipulation.
  • Empathy is Key: Teaches the value of understanding different perspectives.

7. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

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My personal favorite of this list!

IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 67%

What It’s About:
Starring Will Smith in one of his most compelling roles, “The Pursuit of Happyness” is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who eventually becomes a successful stockbroker. The film also stars Smith’s real-life son, Jaden Smith.

Lessons Learned:

  • Never Give Up: Highlights the importance of perseverance and hard work.
  • Resilience Rules: Showcases the value of resilience in overcoming challenges.
  • Seize Opportunities: Emphasizes the significance of grabbing opportunities and not giving up.

8. Boiler Room (2000)

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IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 66%

What It’s About:
“Boiler Room,” directed by Ben Younger, follows Seth Davis, played by Giovanni Ribisi, a college dropout who lands a job at a brokerage firm involved in illegal activities. The cast includes Vin Diesel, Nia Long, and Ben Affleck, offering a gritty look at the world of pump-and-dump schemes.

Lessons Learned:

  • Choose Ethics: Stresses the importance of making ethical choices.
  • Do Your Research: Highlights the need for due diligence.
  • Greed’s Downside: Shows the negative impact of greed.

9. Inside Job (2010)

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IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 98%

What It’s About:
This Oscar-winning documentary directed by Charles Ferguson provides an in-depth analysis of the 2008 financial crisis, exposing the systemic corruption in the financial industry. Matt Damon narrates the film, which includes interviews with key financial insiders, politicians, and journalists.

Lessons Learned:

  • Watchdog Role: Highlights the consequences of regulatory failures.
  • Corporate Greed: Shows the devastating impact of corporate greed.
  • Demand Accountability: Emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability.

10. Rogue Trader (1999)

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IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 30%

What It’s About:
Based on the true story of Nick Leeson, whose speculative trading led to the collapse of Barings Bank, “Rogue Trader” stars Ewan McGregor as Leeson. Directed by James Dearden, the film explores the risks and pressures of high-stakes trading.

Lessons Learned:

  • Manage Risk: Highlights the importance of risk management.
  • Need for Oversight: Stresses the need for effective controls.
  • Individual Impact: Shows how one person’s actions can affect the entire financial system.

Wrapping Up the Best Stock Market Movies

These ten movies are more than just entertainment; they’re a crash course in the highs and lows of the stock market and finance. From the importance of ethics and research to understanding market dynamics and managing risk, each film offers lessons that can make you a better investor and a more informed individual. So grab some popcorn and get ready for some financial education!

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