After much deliberation, we crowned Inside Job, Chasing Madoff, The Big Short, and The Wolf of Wall Street the best stock market movies ever. These movies are captivating and grounded in real stories, making them an absolute must-watch.
Watch the best Wall Street movies and financial documentaries covering crashes, scams, and economic crises. Our list of the best stock market movies has eye-opening financial documentaries, riveting crash & market scam movies, and the best stories ever told.
The 10 Best Stock Market Movies
- Inside Job (2011): Financial Crisis Documentary
- Chasing Madoff (2010): Wall Street Scam Movie
- The Wolf of Wall Street (2013): Wall Street Movie
- The Big Short (2015): Financial Crash Movie
- Banking On Bitcoin (2017): Finance Documentary
- The China Hustle (2018): Finance Documentary
- Enron (2005): Financial Scam
- Capitalism: A Love Story (2009): Finance Documentary
- The Corporation (2003): Finance Documentary
- Barbarians at the Gate (1993): Wall Street Movie
The Best Stock Market Movies Quick Summary
After careful consideration, Inside Job, Chasing Madoff, The Big Short, and The Wolf of Wall Street were chosen as the best stock market movies ever.
Inside Job (2011) is a financial crisis documentary that investigates and analyses the causes of the 2008 global economic meltdown. Chasing Madoff (2010) follows a small group of financial investigators determined to reveal a Wall Street scam. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) follows the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, an infamous stockbroker who engaged in rampant fraud and deception.
The Big Short (2015) is a movie based on Michael Lewis’ book that tells how several people predicted the 2008 financial crash before it happened. Banking On Bitcoin (2017) chronicles the rise of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, while The China Hustle (2018) looks into Chinese companies listed on US stock exchanges. Enron (2005), Capitalism: A Love Story (2009), The Corporation (2003), and Barbarians at the Gate (1993) provide further insight into financial scams, corporate greed, and Wall Street culture, respectively.
1. Inside Job (2011): Financial Crisis Documentary
“Inside Job” is a documentary about the 2008 financial crisis. The movie interviews economists, politicians, and Wall Street insiders to explain how the crisis happened and who was responsible. “Inside Job” is an eye-opening look at the world of finance and how greed can destroy economies.
| 🎥 Inside Job | Financial Crisis Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2011 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Academy Award + 8 Other Awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 26 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | The best Wall Street documentary ever made |
Academy Award-winning documentary and, for me, the best movie on the 2008 financial crisis made.
With high-profile interviewees and Matt Damon’s fast-paced, gripping narration, this film explains what happened leading up to the financial crisis and the level of fear and greed.
Inside Job is an intense, emotionally charged documentary that dives deep into the complexities of finance. It features interviews with experts such as economists, politicians, and Wall Street insiders, all of whom provide unique insight into how the crisis was caused and who was behind it.
The movie is full of jaw-dropping facts about the crisis, leaving you astonished at the level of recklessness exhibited by certain financiers. Furthermore, Matt Damon’s narration adds to the drama and intensity of this gripping film. Overall, Inside Job is a must-watch for anyone wanting to understand how greed can bring down economies.
High-profile interviews and great cinematography wrapped up in a gripping true story.
I have watched this movie three times and plan to do so again; this is not a boring documentary but a good movie in its own right. This is a definite must-see and is easily the best movie on the list.
Watch the Inside Job
2. Chasing Madoff (2010): Wall Street Scam Movie
“Chasing Madoff” is a movie based on the true story of Harry Markopolos, a financial analyst who attempted to warn the world about Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme. Despite providing evidence to the SEC that Madoff was running a scam, they refused to investigate, and Madoff was able to continue his fraud for years before it was eventually uncovered. The movie follows Markopolos and his team as they attempt to track down Madoff and bring him to justice.
| 🎥 Chasing Madoff | Wall Street Scam True Story |
| 🕜 Released | 2010 |
| 🏆 Awards | None |
| 🥈 Nominations | None |
| 👍 Our Verdict | A great documentary widely unrecognized with awards |
Based on the great book “No One Would Listen” by Harry Markopolos. This is a thrilling account of the rise and fall of Bernie Madoff and how difficult it was for Markopolos himself to get the Securities & Exchange Commission to take action.
Despite providing significant evidence to the SEC that Madoff was running a scam, they refused to investigate, and he could continue his fraud for years before it was uncovered.
The movie follows Markopolos and his team as they attempt to track down Madoff and bring him to justice. It’s an inspiring story of how ordinary people are capable of extraordinary feats if
I was on the edge of my seat during the book and exasperated for Markopolos.
You have to see this only to understand the depth of the problem of trying to oversee the companies that take advantage of lazy money.
Thanks to Markopolos, this is a remarkable book and a captivating movie featuring a talented cast and exceptional performances.
Watch: Chasing Madoff
3. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013): Wall Street Movie
“The Wolf of Wall Street” is a movie about Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who made millions by defrauding clients. The movie follows Belfort’s rise to power and his eventual downfall. It is a true story based on Belfort’s book of the same name.
Belfort is a fascinating character, and the movie does a good job of showing his highs and lows. His greed and recklessness eventually lead to his downfall, but he is entertaining to watch. The movie is three hours long but never feels slow or boring.
Overall, “The Wolf of Wall Street” is an excellent movie. It’s well-made, well-acted, and sure to please crime dramas and biopics fans.
| 🎥 The Wolf of Wall Street | Wall Street Movie & True Story |
| 🕜 Released | 2013 |
| 🏆 Awards | 38 awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 5 Oscar Nominations |
| 👍 Our Verdict | The best Wall Street movie ever made |
I enjoyed The Wolf of Wall Street book; this movie does the book justice and brings color and entertainment to this true story.
This movie is entertaining and well-directed by Martin Scorcese; it is a real Hollywood blockbuster.
It focuses on the excesses of the former trader and scam merchant Jordan Belfort, charismatically played by Dicaprio, but that somewhat misses the point.
This movie provides insight into the catalog of mental issues and the drug and alcohol-related challenges of Jordan Belfort. His rise from the mean streets to being a Wall Street hotshot with personal jets, mansions, and an empty life is an entertaining lesson.
The movie does offer a glimmer of hope with Belfort’s eventual downfall and repentance; however, this is not the main focus of the movie. Instead, it focuses on how those around him enable him to continue until he finally reaches his bottom.
This film is great for learning about scammy stock trading techniques and understanding the power of greed on Wall Street.
Watch: The Wolf of Wall Street
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4. The Big Short (2015): Financial Crash Movie
The Big Short is a movie about the 2007-2008 financial crisis. It follows the story of four people who predicted the crisis and made a fortune from betting against the housing market. The film is based on the book of the same name by Michael Lewis.
The four main characters in the movie are hedge fund manager Michael Burry (played by Christian Bale), investment banker Jared Vennett (played by Ryan Gosling), trader Mark Baum (played by Steve Carell), and investor Ben Rickert (played by Brad Pitt). Each has a different story but comes together to bet against the housing market.
The movie does a great job explaining the financial concepts behind the crisis and is very entertaining. If you want to learn more about the financial crisis or watch a good movie, I highly recommend The Big Short.
| 🎥 The Big Short | Financial Crash Movie (True Story) |
| 🕜 Released | 2015 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Oscar + 37 Other Awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 79 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | An amazing true story of the one man who saw the crash coming |
It is a great true story involving the few men who bet against the investment banks going into the 2007 financial crisis.
Michael Lewis has a way of writing that adds great storytelling to the factual background of what happened before and after the credit crunch.
The financial world we depend on is fragile, and Wall Street investment banks who manipulate the markets put our way of life at risk.
It is a great movie that brings to life the failures of investment banks and institutions, even to understand the products they imaginatively create to make a profit.
Excellent acting by Brad Pitt and Christian Bale and top directing make this a movie you must see.
Watch: The Big Short
It was a roller coaster ride with a stellar cast, well worth the time invested.
[Related Article: A Reliable System To Protect You From Bear Markets]
5. Banking On Bitcoin (2017): Finance Documentary
The documentary “Banking on Bitcoin” covers the history of Bitcoin and how it came to be. It also explores the future of cryptocurrency and how it could potentially revolutionize the banking system. Interviews with experts in the field provide insight into how Bitcoin works and why it has become so popular.
| 🎥 Banking On Bitcoin | Crypto & Finance Movie |
| 🕜 Released | 2017 |
| 🏆 Awards | None |
| 👍 Our Verdict | A great Bitcoin and crypto documentary |
The film covers the potential risks and rewards of investing in Bitcoin and ultimately provides a balanced view of the pros and cons of this new form of currency.
Banking on Bitcoin is a documentary film highlighting the birth of Bitcoin and the underlying technology that drives it, the BlockChain.
This is a great starting point for anyone mystified by blockchain technology and wanting to learn more.
Solid interviews with BlockChain and Bitcoin enthusiasts round off the documentary. Bitcoin and its hundreds of competing digital currencies are the darlings of traders. But the fact is that now, the vast majority of those who have invested in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have lost huge amounts of money.
The ultimate investing bubble has been unwinding over the years.
Learn more about Bitcoin in this good documentary.
6. The China Hustle (2018): Finance Documentary
“The China Hustle” is a documentary that follows the rise and fall of Chinese companies on the American stock market. The film highlights the dangers of investing in Chinese companies and the potential for fraud. It also exposes the loopholes in the American regulatory system that allowed these companies to scam investors. The movie is an important warning for anyone considering investing in Chinese firms.
| 🎥 The China Hustle | Finance Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2018 |
| 🥈 Nominations | 3 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | A mind-blowing investigative documentary for the enquiring mind |
“Capitalism rewards those who work hard, but it also rewards those who take advantage of others” is the opening line of this disturbing movie.
There are many reasons why you need to see this movie. Firstly, it uncovers a real-life scam in 2018 in the USA on the stock exchanges.
It examines how, after the 2007 financial crisis, the next big thing has become investing in Chinese stocks. Everyone wants to be a part of and take their share of the China Story unfolding.
But it isn’t easy to invest directly in China, so in a scheming collaboration with US investment firms, Chinese companies have found a backdoor into floating on the US exchanges that avoid the regular checks and balances associated with an Initial Public Offering (IPO).
The problem is that Chinese companies are scam companies with no real sales or business. It is a scam the size of which we have not seen in the last 25 years and is estimated at more than $200 Billion. The movie also introduces you to the world of activist short-sellers. It is a first-class movie.
Watch the China Hustle
“The biggest lie on Wall Street is that this time it’s different.”
7. Enron The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005): Financial Scam
The documentary “Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room” tells the story of the rise and fall of the Enron Corporation. This American energy company became one of the country’s largest and most infamous business failures. The film, directed by Alex Gibney, is based on the book of the same name by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind.
| 🎥 Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room | Wall Street Scams & Corruption |
| 🕜 Released | 2005 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Academy Award Nomination |
| 🥈 Nominations | 3 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | The ultimate corporate scam ever |
Released: 2005
Won: 1 Academy Award Nomination + 3 other award nominations
Enron was founded in 1985 by Kenneth Lay and Jeffrey Skilling. From its beginnings as a small natural gas company, Enron grew into a Fortune 500 corporation, thanks partly to its aggressive marketing and complex financial products. However, the company was also riddled with corruption, as executives like Skilling sought to enrich themselves at the expense of shareholders.
In 2001, Enron’s fraudulent activities were exposed, and the company filed for bankruptcy protection. Tens of thousands of employees lost their jobs, and many investors lost their life savings. The Enron scandal was a major contributor to the 2002 stock market crash.
This movie has it all: greed, arrogance, corruption, or, rather, the board of Enron did.
See how the biggest scam of the 21st century developed and exploded. You can get away with many financial crimes if you pay an army of high-priced lawyers to stand in the way of investigators and regulatory authorities.
The deepest insides of this scandal are exposed and laid bare for all to see in this high-quality movie.
Watch: Enron the Smartest Guys in the Room
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8. Capitalism: A Love Story (2009): Finance Documentary
“Capitalism: A Love Story” is a 2009 documentary film directed by Michael Moore. The film examines the merits of capitalism.
Moore interviews several people on the topic, including workers who have lost their jobs, people who have had their homes foreclosed, and Wall Street bankers. He also looks at the history of capitalism, from its beginnings in the 18th century to its current form.
| 🎥 Capitalism: A Love Story | Finance Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2009 |
| 🏆 Awards | 4 Wins |
| 🥈 Nominations | 15 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | The greatest insight into capitalist and corporate corruption in politics |
I like Michael Moore because he fights for a cause and never shirks away from challenging the status quo.
Moore argues that capitalism is not working for the majority of people and that it needs to be reformed. He calls for a “New Deal” to invest in renewable energy, create jobs, and help fix the economy.
He also looks at the negative impacts of corporate greed on ordinary citizens, such as people who have lost their jobs, people who have had their homes foreclosed, and Wall Street bankers. He also looks at the history of capitalism, from its beginnings in the 18th century to its current form.
This documentary is an eye-opening look into how corporations use their power to manipulate the economy and how it affects us all.
Michael Moore is back and turning his critical gaze on capitalism itself. This movie is highly recommended, entertaining, thought-provoking, and ultimately a great watch.
The historical aspects of the movie and the implications of what he depicts are powerful.
An Example Quote: Rep. Dennis Kucinich: “Is this the United States Congress or the board of directors of Goldman Sachs?”
Watch: Capitalism: A Love Story
You really should not miss this one.
9. The Corporation (2003): Finance Documentary
The Corporation is a documentary film exploring the modern corporation’s nature and history. The film features interviews with business experts, academics, and activists who offer perspectives on the corporation’s role in society.
| 🎥 The Corporation | Financial Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2003 |
| 🏆 Awards | 11 Film Awards |
| 👍 Our Verdict | A thought-provoking look at corporations in society |
The Corporation is a thought-provoking film that offers a unique perspective on the modern corporation. The film makes a strong case for the need to reform the corporation, and it will certainly make you think about the role of corporations in our society.
It is an excellent movie charting the corporation’s rise as a person. The corporation’s rise accelerated after laws were passed granting the corporation a legal status equivalent to a person. That means the corporation has rights, can buy property, and has legal ownership.
So, if the corporation is treated like a person, what is the psychological status of that person? Is that person good for society? The evaluation results are not good; corporations only care about profit and little about the consequences of their products or their impact on society and the environment.
This movie is a worthwhile investment of time and a valuable addition to your knowledge.
Watch The Full Corporation Movie on YouTube
10. Barbarians at the Gate (1993): Wall Street Movie
“Barbarians at the Gate” is a 1990 American drama film based on the best-selling book by Bryan Burrough and John Helyar. The film tells the story of the leveraged buyout (LBO) of RJR Nabisco by KKR. It stars James Garner as Henry Kravis, Peter Riegert as Jerry Kanter, and Jonathan Pryce as Robert Palmer.
| 🎥 Barbarians at the Gate | Wall Street & Corporate Greed Movie |
| 🕜 Released | 1993 |
| 🏆 Awards | 2 Golden Globes + 6 Other Awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 16 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | A real insight into corporate greed |
Barbarians at the Gate is a true story focusing on the leveraged buyout of RJR Nabisco.
The film was directed by Glenn Jordan and written by Larry Gelbart. It aired on HBO on March 20, 1993. “Barbarians at the Gate” was one of the first television films shot entirely in high-definition video.
At the time of its release, the film was the most expensive made for television, with a budget of $32 million. “Barbarians at the Gate” won five Emmy Awards.
A bitter battle ensues to take over this conglomerate. Ross Johnson, the CEO, wants to make a killing by purchasing the undervalued company from shareholders.
This true story turns for the worse when the Wall Street investment banking professionals he hires become his competition in the buyout.
One man’s fight for his company versus the Wall Street vultures intent on tearing his world apart.
It is a “Greed is Good” grab for riches at its worst.
This classic shows what it is like inside these mega-merger and acquisition deals that Wall Street firms thrive on.
Watch: Barbarians at the Gate
11. The Ascent of Money (2008): Finance Documentary
The Ascent of Money is a documentary film that chronicles the origins of money and financial markets. The film interviews prominent economists and financiers such as Robert Reich and George Soros.
| 🎥 The Ascent of Money | Finance Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2008 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Emmy |
| 👍 Our Verdict | A longwinded but fascinating look at how money rules the world. |
Niall Ferguson traces the history of money and how it has grown from a tool to trade goods and services more easily to a dominating factor in society.
The movie Ascent of Money follows Niall Ferguson as he explores the history and evolution of money, beginning with its origins in Sumerian civilization and ending with the modern-day Wall Street firms. The documentary interviews prominent economists and financiers, including Robert Reich and George Soros, to better understand how money has shaped our world today.
Along the way, viewers get an in-depth look at how different monetary systems have evolved and what makes them unique. The movie also critically examines the various strategies that Wall Street firms use to maximize their profits, often at the expense of everyday people.
By illuminating these complex topics as entertaining and informative, The Ascent of Money provides viewers with valuable insight into the world’s financial systems.
How has money transformed the world we live in? You want to drink a coffee when watching this as it is a lot of information, and some may be hardgoing.
But ultimately, this is a rewarding watch and gives us a deepened perspective on how and why our modern societies are structured and behave as they do.
Watch the Ascent of Money on YouTube Now
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12. Rogue Trader (1999): Wall Street Trader Movie
The movie “Rogue Trader” is about the rise and fall of Nick Leeson, a young man who became a successful trader at Barings Bank. Leeson began making risky trades that made him a lot of money, but eventually lost millions of dollars for the bank. He was arrested and sentenced to prison. The movie is based on a true story.
| 🎥 Rogue Trader | Financial Crisis Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 1999 |
| 🏆 Awards | None |
| 🥈 Nominations | 26 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | It is an intense and captivating stock trading movie based on a true story. |
Based on the infamous Nick Leeson true story and book Rogue Trader, the film depicts how Leeson brought down Barings Bank by taking huge risks as a star trader for the firm.
The movie stars Ewan McGregor as Leeson and tells how a young man became one of Europe’s most notorious rogue traders. Ultimately leading to his imprisonment in Singapore, this movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in stock trading, financial markets, or business ethics.
The film portrays the events surrounding Leeson’s rise and fall with intense realism, making it one of the best stock trading movies ever. It’s a great watch for anybody interested in this topic and is highly recommended by us.
This film shows you how little governance and risk management there was (and still is) at the top banks or, in fact, most banks.
This is a compelling and fascinating insight into a trader’s mind and why we need strong oversight and control, as the psychology of any individual can be ruinous.
Watch Rogue Trader on YouTube
13. Too Big to Fail (2011): Financial Crisis Documentary
The movie “Too Big to Fail” is based on the book of the same name by Andrew Ross Sorkin. The film tells the story of the 2008 financial crisis and the government bailout of the American banking system. The cast includes William Hurt, Paul Giamatti, and James Woods.
| 🎥 Too Big to Fail | Stock Market Crash Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2011 |
| 🏆 Awards | 5 awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 3 Golden Globe Nominations |
| 👍 Our Verdict | An amazing insight into how massive conglomerates and corporate corruption could bring us all down. |
The film begins by describing the origins of the financial crisis. It explains how deregulation led to a credit bubble, which eventually burst. The movie then tells the story of how the government tried to save the banking system. This includes discussions of the TARP program and the bailout of AIG.
The film ends with a discussion of the aftermath of the financial crisis. It shows how the recession led to widespread unemployment and foreclosures. It also discusses the rise of populist movements like Occupy Wall Street.
A rather depressing realization that the US financial system is on edge, this film, based on the book “Too Big to Fail,” is critical of Wall Street and the governments that are supposed to regulate it.
The world’s financial systems were shaken to their core, and the collapse of this system would have sent the free world back twenty years in the quality of life.
This documentary shows the crisis, and the US government and central bank saved the day, but only.
Since the financial crisis, there have been no major changes to reduce the number of too-big-to-fail institutions. This film allows you to see inside; try not to be shocked.
Watch: Too Big To Fail
14. Freakonomics (2010): Finance & Economics Documentary
The Freakonomics movie is based on the book by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner. The movie tells the story of how economics can be used to solve everyday problems. It covers various topics, including incentives, cheating, and crime.
| 🎥 Freakonomics | Finance & Economics Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2010 |
| 🥈 Nominations | 1 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | It is the most entertaining finance and economics documentary ever made. |
The movie is narrated by Levitt and features interviews with various experts. Overall, the Freakonomics movie is an interesting and informative look at how economics can be applied to real-world situations.
A fascinating collection of filmed documentaries exploring human nature shows that how we explain the world around us is rarely linked to the true cause. These are excellent books and a very watchable series.
This series is an amazingly entertaining and thought-provoking way to see the world and understand how human behavior always tries to game the system.
“The difference between economists and criminals is incredibly thin.”
It can be dry at times, but it does show how taking a different lens to economics and the thought process can show different insights.
Watch: Freakonomics
15. Floored (2009): Stock Market Trader Documentary
The movie Floored follows the story of a young man, David, who has just started his career on Wall Street. He quickly learns that the world of high finance is cutthroat and ruthless.
| 🎥 Floored | Options Trading True Story Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2009 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Academy Award + 8 Other Awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 26 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | Insightful Chicago Board of Options historical documentary. |
David is determined to make it in the industry but soon discovers it’s not as easy as he thought. The movie culminates with a dramatic showdown on Wall Street.
Floored is a gripping tale of ambition and greed.
This cult classic from director James Allen Smith captures how it was on the Chicago Board of Options exchange floor. It follows alpha male traders who tell it like it is, or at least how it was. The march of technology has made floor trading largely extinct, with most trades happening electronically now.
But floor trading still exists, and a lot of money is still passed over the counter and on the floor. Get a glimpse of history with Floored.
Watch Floored on YouTube
16. Wall Street Warriors (2006): Stock Market Trading Documentary
“Wall Street Warriors” is a documentary about the lives of five Wall Street traders. The movie follows them as they go about their work, trading stocks and making deals.
| 🎥 Wall Street Warriors | Stock Trading Documentary |
| 🕜 Released | 2006 |
| 🏆 Awards | None |
| 👍 Our Verdict | Real insights into the stress of professional stock trading. |
It gives viewers a look into the world of high finance and what it takes to be successful on Wall Street. Watch “Wall Street Warriors” and get a glimpse inside the lives of some of Wall Street’s most powerful players.
The traders share their thoughts on Wall Street and the economy and offer insights into the world of high finance.
Insights galore here into the different roles on Wall Street, and although they earn a lot of money, the mental stress and anguish of the jobs can crush a person.
It is a nice insight into the mentality of the people you entrust your money, your portfolio, and, ultimately, your financial future.
If there was ever a lesson to trust only yourself, this is it. I hope you can sleep after this.
Watch the Full Wall Street Warriors on YouTube
Stock Market Thrillers, Comedies, Fiction Movies
17. Margin Call (2011): Wall Street Crash Movie
The Margin Call movie is set in the world of high finance and tells the story of a group of Wall Street employees who faced layoffs during the 2008 financial crisis. The film follows the characters as they try to come to terms with their financial situations and grapple with the larger implications of the crisis. Margin Call is an intense and thought-provoking film that provides a fascinating glimpse into investment banking.
| 🎥 Margin Call | Wall Street Crash Movie |
| 🕜 Released | 2011 |
| 🏆 Awards | 8 awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 1 Oscar Nomination |
| 👍 Our Verdict | The Best Wall Street Documentary Ever Made |
What happens when over-leveraged financial investment firms get a margin call?
Based on real events in 2008, this film gives us insights into how fragile our financial system is and how close we can come to utter devastation during the shock waves of fear in the market.
An investment firm becomes entangled during one perilous 24-hour period in the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis.
When a financial analyst finds information that could prove to be the firm’s downfall, a whirlwind ensues as financial and moral decisions transport all involved to the brink of disaster.
Filmed in a 24-hour time window of chaos during the 2008 financial crisis, this is a real rollercoaster ride you do not want to miss.
Watch: Margin Call
[Related Article: The Best Forex Brokers In The USA – Margin & Commissions]
18. Boiler Room (2000): Wall Street Scam Trading Movie
“Boiler Room” is a movie about a group of young men who get caught up in stock market manipulation. They start by lying to their friends and family about how well they’re doing and eventually make real money by cheating people out of their investments.
| 🎥 Boiler Room | Wall Street Trader Movie |
| 🕜 Released | 2000 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Award |
| 🥈 Nominations | 9 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | The ultimate pump-and-dump stock market scam movie |
The movie follows their journey from beginning to end and ends with most of them getting arrested and going to jail. This movie is focused on the lowest of the low, the classic “Pump and Dump Scheme.”
Boiler Room is an excellent, gripping movie that provides insight into the manipulation and immoral pump-and-dump operations that still survive today. It is an insightful look at the manipulation of the stock market and those who do it. It has top-notch acting, great cinematography, and a great soundtrack that puts you in the middle of all the action.
This movie captures the excitement and the consequences of manipulating stocks for personal gain. Boiler Room will leave you both educated about stock market manipulation and breathless with intrigue.
It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the stock market or financial fraud. The movie follows a group of ambitious young men as they are recruited to join an illegal brokerage firm that sells low-priced stocks to unsuspecting investors.
This is a must-watch for those who want to experience how intoxicating the promise of huge wealth is and how it can corrupt anyone and devastate investors who get caught up in it.
The youthful appearances of Ben Affleck and Vin Diesel light this movie up.
I have watched this movie many times and still love it.
Watch: Boiler Room
19. Wall Street (1987): Wall Street Movie
The movie “Wall Street” is set in the 1980s and tells the story of a young stockbroker who becomes involved with a ruthless Wall Street trader. The stockbroker is seduced by the trader’s lifestyle of wealth and power and eventually becomes embroiled in a financial scandal. The movie portrays the greed and corruption on Wall Street in the 1980s.
| 🎥 Wall Street | Wall Street Movie |
| 🕜 Released | 1987 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Oscar + 10 Other Awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 5 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | The Best Wall Street Documentary Ever Made |
I am pretty sure you have seen this already, hasn’t everyone?
This classic must-see movie creates an icon every trader knows: “Gordon Gekko.”
“Greed is Good” is the mantra, and this cunning, ambitious, and morally vacant stockbroker will do anything to rise to the top and cash in the wealth.
Oliver Stone’s Academy Award Winning blockbuster epitomizes the roaring 80s and a stock market full of emerging corporate raiders and absolute greed.
Wall Street is a must-watch movie for everyone who wants to understand the 1980s’ financial landscape and its implications. The story follows the journey of young stockbroker Bud Fox, played by Charlie Sheen, as he gets seduced into the ways of corporate raider Gordon Gekko and his unscrupulous business practices. Eventually, Bud finds himself caught up in an illegal stock transaction and must face the consequences of his decisions.
Wall Street not only shines a light on the excess and greed of Wall Street in the 1980s but also serves as an important reminder that success often comes with a price. The movie’s timeless message is still relevant to this day.
Oliver Stone claimed an Oscar with the supporting cast of Charlie Sheen and Michael Douglas in this timeless classic.
Watch: Wall Street
20. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992): Sales & Finance Movie
“Glengarry Glen Ross” is a 1992 movie based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by David Mamet. The movie follows the lives of four salespeople working for a real estate company in Chicago.
| 🎥 Glengarry Glen Ross | Sales & Finance Movie |
| 🕜 Released | 1992 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Academy Award + 8 Other Awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 26 |
| 👍 Our Verdict | A movie loved by Wall Street traders |
The men are pressured to sell as many properties as possible to keep their jobs and constantly compete to outsell each other. The movie culminates in a tense meeting where the salespeople are given an ultimatum to either sell more properties or be fired.
The performances by the cast are all excellent, and Mamet’s dialogue is razor-sharp. The movie is a fascinating look at the world of high-stakes salesmanship, and it’s no wonder it has become a classic.
This film is quoted by many in the investing and finance business as a classic in direct sales and the pressure of being on the phone and selling.
The real story behind the sales world shows what it is to try to make a life in high-pressure sales with all its highs, lows, and mental anguish.
Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Alec Baldwin, and Kevin Spacey make up this all-star cast that lights up the room.
What’s not to love about this movie, apart from the fact it is dour, depressing, and down-to-earth?
It is a timeless cult classic with incredible performances that make this an American masterpiece.
Watch: Glengarry Glen Ross
21. Wall Street Money Never Sleeps (2010): Wall Street Movie
“Wall Street Money Never Sleeps” is a 2010 drama film directed by Oliver Stone and starring Shia LaBeouf, Michael Douglas, Carey Mulligan, Josh Brolin, and Frank Langella. The film is a sequel to the 1987 film “Wall Street” and follows the financial crisis of 2007-2008.
The film received mixed reviews from critics but was a box-office success. LaBeouf and Douglas both received praise for their performances.
| 🎥 Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps | Wall Street Movie |
| 🕜 Released | 2010 |
| 🏆 Awards | 1 Award |
| 🥈 Nominations | 1 Golden Globe Nomination |
| 👍 Our Verdict | A new take on Gorden Gekko twenty years later. |
Released: 2011
Won: 1 Award + 1 Golden Globe Nomination
Gekko is out of prison and looks to be on the right path with his new book warning of ruin, but all is not as it seems.
A Gekko cannot change its stripes, and he plans an almighty return to the top to fuel his ego and self-superiority.
Can he sacrifice his relationship with his family to get what he wants?
This film is an in-depth look at the world of Wall Street, and it presents a darkly humorous, cynical, and all-too-realistic portrayal of the financial sector. “Wall Street Money Never Sleeps” is an entertaining exploration of greed, power, ambition, and deception. It’s worth watching if you want to understand what drives today’s financial markets.
It’s worth watching, but it’s not a life-changing movie.
Watch: Wall Street Money Never Sleeps
22. Arbitrage (2012): Finance Movie
“Arbitrage” is a movie about a hedge fund manager facing financial ruin after making bad investments. He resorts to illegal measures to save his company and himself. The movie is tense and suspenseful, keeping me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
| 🎥 Arbitrage | Finance Movie |
| 🕜 Released | 2012 |
| 🏆 Awards | 4 awards |
| 🥈 Nominations | 1 Golden Globe Nomination |
| 👍 Our Verdict | Possibly the worst finance movie ever made |
I am not a big fan of Richard Gere, but strangely, many people are!
This movie focuses on a hedge fund manager trying to cover up his personal misdeeds. Robert Miller is a successful financier who has scraped his way to the top of the finance world. But his secrets involving illegal, fraudulent activities and personal infidelity are revealed and threaten to topple his success.
The focus is not on hedge fund management but on a scum-bag rich guy trying to escape crimes he committed in typical Hollywood style.
Watch: Arbitrage
Top 22 Stock Market Movies Video Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best finance movies?
The best finance movies are Inside Job, a gripping true story about the 2008 financial crisis, and the Big Short, which made Michael Burry famous for his short trading of subprime mortgages in 2008.
What is a good finance documentary?
The three best finance documentaries are Too Big to Fail, covering how the Federal Reserve scrambled to save the US economy in 2008. Capitalism - A Love Story details corporate financial corruption, and Inside Job uncovers exactly what caused the 2008 financial crisis.
What are the best Wall Street Movies?
The best Wall Street movies of all time are The Wolf of Wall Street, Rogue Trader, Boiler Room, and Wall Street. Although these movies glamorize the corruption of Wall Street traders and investment banks, they are well worth watching.
What are the must-watch stock market movies?
The must-watch stock market movies are Inside Job, Chasing Madoff, The Big Short, and Enron. Based on true stories, these stock market movies will keep you on the edge of your seat.
What movie covered the cause of the 2008 stock market crash?
The best movie covering the cause of the 2008 financial crisis is the Academy Award-winning Inside Job. Meticulously researched and narrated by Matt Damon, this movie is first-class.
What is the most accurate stock market movie?
The most accurate stock market trading movie has to be Floored; director James Allen Smith captures how it was for alpha male traders on the Chicago Board of Options exchange floor. Watch Floored here.
What movie is based on money markets?
The most accurate movie covering the money markets is The Ascent of Money. Based on professor Niall Ferguson's books and research, this movie teaches you how money markets work in reality, and the results are surprising.
What to watch to learn about investing?
To learn about investing, watch Too Big to Fail, Chasing Madoff, and The Ascent of Money. These three movies are factual documentaries that give you investing insights that will stay with you forever.
In which movie do they sell penny stocks?
The most famous movies about selling penny stocks are The Wolf of Wall Street, starring Leonardi DiCaprio, and Boiler Room with Ben Affleck and Vin Diesel. Both movies are thrillers that dramatize penny stock pump and dump scams.
What is the best Ponzi scheme movie?
The best Ponzi scheme movie ever made is Chasing Madoff. Based on the gripping true story of Harry Markopolos, who attempted to warn the world about Bernie Madoff's billion-dollar Ponzi scheme and was ignored by the SEC.
What movies teach you about money and finance?
The two movies to watch to learn about money are Freakonomics, which details human behavioral patterns in finance, and The Ascent of Money which shows how money operates in the economy.
We hope you enjoyed the review. Please leave your comments or favorite movie feedback below.
Hey,
Do watch ‘Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story’.
I hope they make a movie or documentary on the 2020 pandemic crash. I guess it’s not over yet so it may be another year or two.
I have no idea, anyone else?
What was the show in which a New York investor is flying across middle America en route to Los Angeles to invest in movies when he is diverted by massive storms and has the presence of mind to call his partner and buy wheat? It is at least 25 years old and may be made-for-television or a motion picture thank you.
I wathed the inside job on your recommendation, such an amazing movie thanks for the time
Traders is a show during the 1990s. Very smart Canadian show about big bankers and traders, It’s not a movie but it’s much better than Wall Street Warriors, which is kind of lame.
let me reach out to you carlos.
Hi Barry
I would love to work for you and have you as my mentor. Would you consider this?
Carlos Rodrigues
HI Nvule, wow I dont know how I missed this last year. I will have to watch it. The trailer looks cool with Robert De Niro.
Thanks for the tip
ummm…. i think one of the best (if not the best) stock market movie is missing on the list and its none other than “THE WIZARD OF LIES”.
ӏ wɑnt to to tһank you for this good reaԁ!! I certainly loved еѵery
littlе bit of іt. І Һave ցot you book-marked to check out new stuff you post…
Good one Doni, Limitless is also worth watching
Limitless ?
Equity ?
Straight in at number 5 – the Big Short
Hi Kevin, good suggestion, no idea how I missed that one
The Big Short?
Glad you liked it Ben, if you have any other great films to recommend let me know.
Great film review, I comepletely agree, the Inside Job is a great movie, also the chasing Madhoff is a top movie.
thanks
Ben Crocker