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The 25 Best Movies About Business and Where to Watch Them

The business and entertainment worlds combine to offer us some of the most captivating movies ever made. 

From riveting dramas to inspiring biographies, movies about business offer more than just entertainment–they provide insightful glimpses into success, failure and risk-taking. 

Many of these movies are based on real events, and some are documentaries taking a close look at the corporate world and financial mishaps. 

In this post, you’ll get the 25 best movies about business, plus where you can watch them online. 

Grab some popcorn and a comfy seat and settle in for some engaging portrayals of the ups and downs of business! 

Contents


1. “The Wolf of Wall Street”

Year: 2013

Genre: Biographical drama/comedy

IMDb rating: 8.2

“The Wolf of Wall Street” is a gripping film directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the true story of Jordan Belfort. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, it depicts the rise and fall of a stockbroker who becomes embroiled in a world of excessive wealth, greed and corruption. The movie showcases Belfort’s extravagant lifestyle, unscrupulous dealings and the pursuit of the American Dream gone awry, all set against the backdrop of 1990s Wall Street.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Paramount+ | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

2. “The Pursuit of Happyness”

Year: 2006

Genre: Biographical drama

IMDb rating8.0

“The Pursuit of Happyness” is a moving drama based on the true story of Chris Gardner, portrayed by Will Smith. Struggling with homelessness and single fatherhood, Gardner battles against all odds to secure a future for his son. He works hard to gain success in corporate America while having to hide the reality of his situation. Their emotional journey showcases perseverance and the indomitable spirit of the human will in the face of adversity.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Hulu | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

3. “Inside Job”

Year: 2010

Genre: Documentary 

IMDb rating: 8.2

Directed by Charles Ferguson, “Inside Job” dissects the 2008 financial crisis. With rigorous investigation and expert interviews, it exposes the intricate web of corruption, regulatory failures and unethical practices that led to the global economic meltdown. Through an engaging narrative, the film sheds light on the collusion between financial institutions, policymakers and academics, offering a sobering critique of the financial system and its devastating impact on society.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Max | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

4. “The Big Short”

Year: 2015

Genre: Biographical drama/comedy

IMDb rating7.8

“The Big Short” is a gripping film directed by Adam McKay, based on the true events of the 2008 financial crisis. Starring Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling and Brad Pitt, the movie follows a group of individuals who predicted the collapse of the housing market and bet against the system. With a blend of humor and drama, it exposes the complexities and consequences of the global financial meltdown.

Where to watch: Netflix | Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

5. “The Social Network”

Year: 2010

Genre: Biographical drama

IMDb rating7.8

Directed by David Fincher, “The Social Network” is a somewhat loose biography based on the early days of Facebook. The film traces the complex relationships and legal battles that arise between its co-founders, notably Mark Zuckerberg (played by Jesse Eisenberg), and three other college students. As Zuckerberg’s ambition drives the creation of a social media empire, the movie delves into themes of friendship, betrayal and the modern tech revolution.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

6. “The Corporation”

Year: 2003

Genre: Documentary

IMDb rating: 8.0

“The Corporation” is an eye-opening documentary directed by Mark Achbar and Jennifer Abbott. Examining the behavior and impact of corporations, the film presents a critical exploration of their power, influence and ethical implications. Drawing on interviews with industry insiders and experts, the documentary raises thought-provoking questions about corporate responsibility, environmental concerns and their effects on society and democracy.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV

7. “The New Corporation: The Unfortunately Necessary Sequel” 

Year: 2020

Genre: Documentary

IMDb rating7.0

“The New Corporation” is a follow-up to “The Corporation,” delving into how corporations have evolved in the 21st century. Through analysis and interviews, it exposes issues such as climate change, social justice and technological impact, inviting viewers to reevaluate the role and impact of corporate entities in our world today. Watch these two documentaries to get a good understanding of the not-so-great side of the business world over the years. 

Where to watch: Prime Video | Peacock | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

8. “Moneyball”

Year: 2011

Genre: Biographical sports drama

IMDb rating: 7.6

Starring Brad Pitt, “Moneyball” tells the true story of Billy Beane, the Oakland Athletics’ general manager. Faced with limited resources, Beane challenges traditional baseball strategies by relying on data analytics and statistics to assemble a competitive team. The movie explores innovation, risk-taking and the transformation of sports management. It’s a good watch if you’re an entrepreneur or hoping to become one. 

Where to watch: Prime Video | Max | Hulu | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

9. “Office Space”

Year: 1999

Genre: Comedy

IMDb rating7.6

Directed by Mike Judge, “Office Space” is a hilarious comedy that satirizes the corporate world. The film follows the monotonous life of an office worker named Peter Gibbons, played by Ron Livingston, as he rebels against his soul-sucking job and unappreciative boss. With a blend of wit and absurdity, the movie delves into workplace frustrations, culminating in a plot to embezzle money and escape the daily grind.

Where to watch: Prime Video | MaxHulu | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

10. “Thank You for Smoking”

Year: 2005

Genre: Comedy/drama

IMDb rating: 7.5

“Thank You for Smoking” is a satirical comedy directed by Jason Reitman that follows the life of Nick Naylor, a charismatic spokesperson for the tobacco industry. Starring Aaron Eckhart, the film navigates his efforts to manipulate public opinion while juggling fatherhood and his own morals. Through humor and wit, the movie offers a clever critique of spin, ethics and media manipulation.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

11. “The Aviator”

Year: 2004

Genre: Biographical drama

IMDb rating7.5

Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, “The Aviator” depicts the life of Howard Hughes, a pioneering aviator, filmmaker and industrialist. The movie offers a captivating journey through Hughes’ successes in aviation and filmmaking, as well as the challenges that came with his fame and obsessions. The film received 5 Oscars and is sure to interest anyone looking to learn about the historically well-known figures of the business world. 

Where to watch: Prime Video | Hulu | Paramount+ | Apple TV | Google Play

12. “Air”

Year: 2023

Genre: Biographical sports drama

IMDb rating7.4

Directed by Ben Affleck, “Air” depicts the origin story of the iconic Air Jordan basketball shoeline, as a Nike employee seeks to strike a deal with rookie player Michael Jordan. Featuring a star-studded cast including Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Jason Bateman and Viola Davis, the movie explores the transformative partnership that led to the creation of this legendary footwear brand amidst challenges and negotiations. 

Where to watch: Prime Video

13. “Up in the Air”

Year: 2009

Genre: Romantic comedy/drama

IMDb rating: 7.4

“Up in the Air” is a thought-provoking drama directed by Jason Reitman. The film follows Ryan Bingham (played by George Clooney), a frequent flyer who specializes in corporate downsizing—basically, his job is to fire people. He travels across the U.S. navigating airports and hotel rooms while doing this emotionally taxing job. However, his solitary life is challenged when he forms unexpected connections. 

Where to watch: Prime Video | Paramount+Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

14. “Jerry Maguire”

Year: 1996

Genre: Romantic comedy/drama

IMDd rating: 7.3

“Jerry Maguire” is a cult classic and a must-watch for people who like business-related films or 90s romance. The film follows sports agent Jerry Maguire, played by Tom Cruise, who has a moral epiphany and writes a mission statement advocating for better treatment of clients. Fired from his job, he starts his own agency with the help of a single mother, played by Renée Zellweger, leading him to love and a new outlook.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Peacock | Google Play | YouTube

15. “Wall Street”

Year: 1987

Genre: Drama/crime

IMDb rating: 7.3

“Wall Street” portrays the high-stakes world of finance in 1980s New York. Bud Fox, a young stockbroker, is drawn into the seductive yet morally complex world of corporate raider Gordon Gekko, played by Michael Douglas. As Fox navigates the allure of wealth and power, he grapples with ethical dilemmas and the consequences of his choices. The film remains a compelling exploration of ambition, greed and the price of success.
 
Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

16. “Too Big to Fail”

Year: 2011

Genre: Biographical drama

IMDb rating7.3

Based on Andrew Ross Sorkin’s book, “Too Big to Fail” offers a gripping account of the 2008 financial crisis. With a star-studded cast including William Hurt and Paul Giamatti, it explores the efforts of key figures from government and finance to prevent a collapse of the global economy. Through tense negotiations and high-stakes decisions, the movie unravels the complex web of financial institutions and their impact on society.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Max | Hulu | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

17. “Steve Jobs”

Year: 2015

Genre: Biographical drama

IMDb rating: 7.2

“Steve Jobs,” directed by Danny Boyle, provides a unique look at the life of the Apple co-founder. Starring Michael Fassbender, the film is set backstage before three iconic product launches, showcasing Jobs’ complex personality, relationships and his relentless pursuit of innovation. With a focus on his professional challenges and personal dynamics, the movie offers a gripping portrayal of a visionary mind and the impact of his creations on the world.

Where to watch: Prime Video | StarzApple TV | Google Play | YouTube

18. “Jobs”

Year: 2013

Genre: Biographical drama

IMDb rating6.0

If the story of Steve Jobs interests you, here’s another film portraying his life and journey to success. In this one, Ashton Kutcher plays Jobs as he goes from a college dropout to the co-founder of Apple Inc. From his early days in a garage to revolutionizing technology, the movie delves into Jobs’ visionary leadership, creative genius and tumultuous journey in building one of the world’s most influential companies. 

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

19. “The Founder” 

Year: 2016

Genre: Biographical drama

IMDb rating7.2

Starring Michael Keaton, “The Founder” recounts the rise of Ray Kroc, who turned a small burger joint into the global fast-food empire McDonald’s. The film explores Kroc’s cunning business tactics, his partnership with the McDonald brothers and the ethical complexities of his success. It’s another captivating portrayal of entrepreneurship and its consequences, touching on themes of ambition, corporate expansion and the cost of achievement.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

20. “The Intern”

Year: 2015

Genre: Comedy/drama

IMDb rating: 7.1

“The Intern” is a heartwarming comedy directed by Nancy Meyers. Starring Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, the film revolves around a retired widower who lands an internship at an online fashion retailer. As he bridges generational gaps and becomes an unexpected mentor, the movie explores the importance of connection, learning and finding purpose later in life. It will give you an inside look at the corporate world with plenty of humor and emotion. 

Where to watch: Prime Video | Hulu | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

21. “Margin Call” 

Year: 2011

Genre: Drama/thriller

IMDb rating7.1

“Margin Call” is a gripping financial thriller directed by J.C. Chandor and inspired by real events. Set in the early days of the 2008 financial crisis, the film follows employees of an investment bank as they uncover a disastrous risk exposure. Over a tense 24 hours, the characters grapple with moral dilemmas, ethical choices and the consequences of unchecked corporate greed. The movie offers a sobering exploration of the financial industry’s impact on society.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

22. “Boiler Room”

Year: 2000

Genre: Drama/crime

IMDb rating7.0

“Boiler Room” is a compelling drama directed by Ben Younger that delves into the world of high-stakes stock trading. Starring Giovanni Ribisi and Vin Diesel, the film follows a young college dropout who enters the shady world of a pump-and-dump brokerage firm. As he climbs the ranks, ethical dilemmas arise, leading to a collision of ambition, morality and the allure of quick wealth.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

23. “A Good Year”

Year: 2006

Genre: Romantic comedy/drama

IMDb rating6.9

Starring Russell Crowe, “A Good Year” follows a high-powered London investment banker who inherits a vineyard in France. This major shift from the fast-paced business world to the idyllic countryside reflects the banker’s realization that life’s true riches lie beyond material success. The film reminds us of the importance of finding harmony between work and life by balancing business achievements with personal connections and meaningful experiences.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Hulu | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

24. “The Company Men”

Year: 2010

Genre: Drama

IMDb rating6.7

“The Company Men” is a poignant drama directed by John Wells. Starring Ben Affleck, Tommy Lee Jones and Chris Cooper, the film depicts the impact of corporate downsizing on three men and their families. The men must reevaluate their priorities as they grapple with job loss, identity crisis and financial turmoil. The film follows their search for meaning beyond the confines of a career and delves into themes of resilience and camaraderie.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Max | Apple TV

25. “Joy”

Year: 2015

Genre: Biographical drama

IMDb rating6.6

Jennifer Lawrence stars as Joy Mangano, a determined woman who transforms her life by inventing the Miracle Mop. The film follows Joy’s journey from a struggling single mother to a successful entrepreneur, navigating the challenges of business, family dynamics and personal growth. With a blend of heartwarming moments and empowering themes, “Joy” celebrates one woman’s tenacity and innovation in the face of adversity.

Where to watch: Prime Video | Apple TV | Google Play | YouTube

 

This list of the best movies about business should keep you entertained for a while. 

And hopefully, they’ll teach you a thing or two about the business world and what to do (or not to do) to be successful! 

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