10 Money Movies That Will Make You Smarter

Making tough decisions is a part of life, whether it’s in business or personal matters. It’s all about being smart, and a lot of that comes from how we think and approach problems.

Watching movies might not be the first solution that comes to mind when you want to sharpen your decision-making skills, but it can be surprisingly effective.

Here are 10 money movies that do more than entertain—they provide real-life lessons and insights that can make you smarter in handling life’s challenges.

1. The Big Short

This movie is about spotting opportunities where no one else does. It teaches you about risk and reward, showing that sometimes the most unlikely bet can turn out to be the best one.

2. Margin Call

Here’s a lesson in crisis management. The characters face an extreme situation that forces them to make decisions quickly. It’s about the importance of staying calm under pressure and making informed choices.

3. Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room

This documentary highlights the consequences of greed and unethical behavior. It’s a stark reminder that short-term gains can lead to long-term disasters.

4. Too Big to Fail

The movie shows the complexities of financial systems and the impact of major financial decisions on the world. It teaches you about the responsibility that comes with power.

5. Wall Street

A classic tale of morality, “Wall Street” explores the temptations of greed and the fallout of succumbing to it. It’s perfect for understanding the balance between ambition and ethics.

6. Inside Job

This film takes you through the causes of the 2008 financial crisis, educating you on the interconnectedness of global markets and the domino effects within them. It’s a comprehensive look at accountability and the importance of oversight.

7. Glengarry Glen Ross

Focused on the high-pressure world of sales, this movie is all about persuasion and survival. It teaches the value of persistence but also the dark side of desperation.

8. Rogue Trader

A true story of a trader who lost big, this movie is a lesson in risk management and the importance of knowing when to stop.

9. The Wolf of Wall Street

This film showcases the exhilarating highs and devastating lows of living a life driven by excess and ambition. It’s a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked desire.