Top 10 Stock Market Movies You Must Watch

November 26, 2015 Trading Tips Movies 5 min read

Top 10 Stock Market Movies You Must Watch

Movies can immerse us in different worlds, offering insights into industries, cultures, and professions that we might not otherwise experience. For those fascinated by the world of finance, particularly trading and the stock market, there are several films that offer valuable lessons in addition to thrilling narratives and compelling characters. 

In this list, we’ve curated 10 must-watch trading and stock market-related movies that dive into the world of finance. Each film offers a unique perspective, whether it’s a comedic take on the trading culture or ethical dilemmas faced by those who work on the trading floor. So, whether you’re a seasoned trader looking for some entertainment or simply curious about how the financial world works, these movies are sure to provide insight, inspiration, and plenty of thrills along the way.

1. Trading Places (1983)

“Trading Places” is a timeless comedy that delves into the world of commodities trading with wit and charm. Starring Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd, the film revolves around a bet between 2 wealthy brothers that leads to a scheme to manipulate the orange juice market. Through humor and clever storytelling, it focuses on the role of socioeconomic factors in shaping market sentiment while offering a glimpse into the world of trading.

2. Barbarians at the Gate (1993)

The movie is based on the book of the same name and tells a true story. “Barbarians at the Gate” chronicles the high-stakes leveraged buyout (LBO) of RJR Nabisco in the late 1980s. The film provides a fascinating exploration of the cutthroat world of corporate finance, where greed, ambition, and power intersect. It offers a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while providing valuable insights into the dynamics of mergers and acquisitions.

3. Rogue Trader (1999)

“Rogue Trader” tells the true story of Nick Leeson, a trader whose risky bets led to the collapse of Barings Bank, one of the oldest and most respected financial institutions in Britain. Starring Ewan McGregor, the film offers a cautionary take on the consequences of unethical behavior in the financial sector. It delves deep into the psyche of a trader consumed by overconfidence and the devastating impact of his actions on both his life and the financial industry.

4. Boiler Room (2000)

“Boiler Room” is a captivating film loosely inspired by real events. It follows a young stockbroker who gets pulled into shady dealings and pressured into using aggressive sales tactics. As he dives deeper into the world of brokerage, he’s faced with tough choices that make him question what’s right and wrong. The movie offers a glimpse into the fast-paced and often murky world of Wall Street, showing the ethical dilemmas people encounter when tempted by the promise of wealth and success.

5. Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

While not solely focused on trading, “Pursuit of Happyness” is a poignant biographical drama that follows the struggles of Chris Gardner, a single father determined to build a better life for himself and his son. Starring Will Smith, the film offers a heartfelt portrayal of Gardner’s journey from homelessness to success as a stockbroker. It celebrates the power of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of financial independence, inspiring audiences to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams.

6. Inside Job (2010)

“Inside Job” is a hard-hitting documentary that provides a comprehensive analysis of the 2008 financial crisis. Through interviews with economists, policymakers, and industry insiders, the film exposes the systemic corruption and greed that led to the collapse of major financial institutions. It offers a sobering reminder of the consequences of unchecked speculation and regulatory failures in the financial sector, urging viewers to question the underlying causes of economic instability.

7. Margin Call (2011)

Set during the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis, “Margin Call” unfolds over a tense 24-hour period at a fictional investment bank. As the firm grapples with the impending collapse of the housing market, its employees are forced to confront moral dilemmas and ethical compromises. Through its strong screenplay and stellar ensemble cast, the film offers a gripping portrayal of the human cost of financial greed and the ethical challenges that come with dealing with a crisis.

8. Too Big to Fail (2011)

Based on the book by Andrew Ross Sorkin, “Too Big to Fail” offers a behind-the-scenes look at the events surrounding the 2008 financial crisis. Through a series of high-stakes negotiations and power struggles, the film explores the efforts of government officials and financial executives to stabilize the economy and prevent a total meltdown. It provides a riveting account of the interconnectedness of global financial markets and the immense challenges faced by those tasked with managing a crisis of unprecedented scale.

9. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, “The Wolf of Wall Street” takes you through the extremes of Wall Street during the 1990s. Based on the memoir of Jordan Belfort, a notorious stockbroker convicted of securities fraud, the film is a cautionary tale on greed, corruption, and self-indulgence. Through its intriguing performances and stylized direction, it exposes the allure and pitfalls of unchecked ambition.

10. The Big Short (2015)

Based on Michael Lewis’s book, “The Big Short” follows a group of investors who predicted the housing market crash of 2008. Through its clever narrative devices and sharp wit, the film unravels the complexities of the subprime mortgage crisis and the flaws inherent in the financial system. It introduces us to Wall Street’s culture of greed and recklessness and warns us about the dangers of an unregulated financial system.

Conclusion

The world of trading and the stock market is filled with excitement, risk, and opportunity, and these 10 movies offer captivating insights into this dynamic realm. Whether you’re interested in the psychology of risk-taking, the ethics of high finance, or the mechanics of market manipulation, there’s something for everyone in this diverse selection of films. 

If these movies intrigue you enough to start trading yourself, you can anytime head to our website and open a demat account with TradeSmart for FREE! Get real-time support during market hours and enjoy low brokerage rates of ₹15 per executed order, regardless of the trade size or segment.

Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered as stock recommendation or advice to buy or sell shares of any company. Investing in the stock market can be risky. It is therefore advisable to research well or consult an investment advisor before investing in shares, derivatives or any other such financial instruments traded on the exchanges.

FAQs

Are these movies suitable for beginners in trading and investing?

Yes, these stock market movies are entertaining and educational for viewers of all levels of expertise, providing valuable insights into financial markets, investor psychology, and ethical dilemmas.

Are these movies based on true stories?

Many of them are inspired by real-life events or adapted from true stories, adding depth and authenticity to their storytelling.

Can I learn about specific trading strategies from these movies?

While not instructional, these films offer glimpses into various trading strategies and market dynamics, broadening understanding of the industry.

Are these movies suitable for all ages?

Most are intended for mature audiences due to themes like greed and ethical dilemmas. However, some, like “Pursuit of Happiness,” are family-friendly.

Where can I watch these movies?

These stock market movies available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, as well as for rent or purchase on digital platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.


8 Comments
  • putlockerfit01 says:

    10 Movies Every Trader Must Watch

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  • kuntalbanerjee says:

    I was searching for trading movie list.Landed here.Going to see every movie on the list.

  • Parth says:

    Thanks for the comment JJ! I can’t wait to watch the Big Short as well! The sad part is that it’s releasing all the way on 22nd of Jan far from a lot of other countries that already have it.

  • JJ says:

    The Wolf of Wall Street was most entertaining but Inside Job seemed most realistic (after all, it’s a documentary.) I also can’t wait to see the new movie, The Big Short.

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