Top movies about successful business people
From the cutthroat world of finance to the innovative realm of tech startups, these films offer a fascinating look into the lives of individuals who built empires. Get ready to be inspired, shocked, and entertained by the pursuit of wealth and power.



The world of successful business people on screen is far more than just suits and boardrooms; it's a deep dive into ambition, innovation, and often, the ethical tightropes walked by those at the top. Films like The Social Network pull back the curtain on the early days of Facebook, revealing the intense personal conflicts behind its creation, a stark reminder that even groundbreaking success can come with a heavy cost. Then there's The Wolf of Wall Street, which, while highly stylized and controversial, showcases the extreme excesses and moral decay that can accompany unchecked financial power.
It’s not all about the dark side, though. Movies like The Pursuit of Happyness offer a powerful narrative of resilience and determination, proving that success can indeed be born from the most challenging circumstances. And who can forget Moneyball, which, while about baseball, is fundamentally a story about disrupting traditional thinking with analytical rigor—a lesson applicable to any business.
These films, whether based on true stories or fictionalized accounts, often highlight the relentless drive and unconventional thinking required to succeed in highly competitive fields. They explore the personal sacrifices, the moments of genius, and the sheer audacity that define these characters. From the fast-talking brokers of Boiler Room to the visionary inventor in Joy, each narrative provides a unique lens into the psychology of success, reminding us that the path to the top is rarely straightforward.
14. The Intern (2015)
Find charm and unexpected wisdom in The Intern, a delightful and heartwarming film that explores the intersection of generations in the modern workplace. Robert De Niro stars as Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower who takes on an internship at an online fashion company founded and run by the driven Jules Ostin (Anne Hathaway).
Directed by Nancy Meyers, known for her feel-good comedies, the film beautifully portrays the evolving dynamics between older experience and youthful innovation. It's a gentle reminder of the value that different generations can bring to the table, challenging stereotypes about age and career. De Niro and Hathaway have wonderful chemistry, creating a touching mentor-mentee relationship that is both funny and genuinely moving. It's a charming and uplifting story about finding purpose, connection, and success at any stage of life.

13. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)
Enter the cutthroat world of real estate sales in Glengarry Glen Ross, a powerful and intense drama based on David Mamet's Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Set over two days, the film plunges into the lives of four desperate real estate salesmen who are given a brutal ultimatum: sell or be fired. The top two performers will get the 'Glengarry leads,' while the rest face unemployment.
With an incredible ensemble cast including Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Ed Harris, Alan Arkin, and Kevin Spacey, the film is a masterclass in acting and Mamet's signature sharp, expletive-laden dialogue. It's a raw, unflinching look at the pressures of sales, the desperation it can breed, and the moral compromises people make to survive. The tension is palpable, and the performances are absolutely captivating, making it a classic for its brutal honesty about the dark side of ambition.

12. Boiler Room (2000)
Step into the high-pressure, high-stakes world of a boiler room, where young, ambitious stockbrokers push questionable investments. Boiler Room offers a gritty and intense look at the dark side of penny stocks and pump-and-dump schemes. Giovanni Ribisi stars as Seth Davis, a college dropout who gets drawn into this seemingly glamorous world, only to discover its deceptive and dangerous underbelly.
The film features a strong ensemble cast including Ben Affleck, Vin Diesel, Nia Long, and Scott Caan, all delivering energetic performances. It's a cautionary tale about greed, ambition, and the illusion of quick wealth, exposing the manipulative tactics employed to ensnare unsuspecting investors. While fictional, it draws heavily from real-life 'boiler room' operations, providing a compelling and often uncomfortable glimpse into a world where ethics are often sacrificed for profit.

11. Joy (2015)
Discover the incredible true story of self-made success in Joy. Jennifer Lawrence stars as Joy Mangano, a struggling single mother who invents the Miracle Mop and battles her way through family dysfunction, business challenges, and legal hurdles to build a powerful business empire. Directed by David O. Russell, this film is a quirky, heartfelt, and often chaotic journey through the entrepreneurial spirit.
Lawrence received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal, capturing Joy's resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering determination. The movie blends elements of comedy, drama, and biopic, showcasing the grit required to turn a simple idea into a multi-million dollar reality. It's a testament to the power of perseverance and belief in oneself, even when everyone else doubts you. A truly inspiring watch for anyone chasing a dream.

10. Steve Jobs (2015)
Get an intimate look at the complex genius behind Apple with Steve Jobs. This film takes an unconventional approach to biography, focusing on three pivotal product launches – the Macintosh in 1984, the NeXT Cube in 1988, and the iMac in 1998 – to reveal the personal and professional struggles of the tech icon. Michael Fassbender delivers an intense and nuanced performance as Jobs, capturing his brilliance, his demanding nature, and his complicated relationships.
The film is a masterclass in Aaron Sorkin's signature rapid-fire, witty dialogue, brought to life by Danny Boyle's dynamic direction. Each act unfolds backstage before a major presentation, building tension and revealing layers of Jobs's character through his interactions with key figures in his life. It's a fascinating character study that explores the drive, vision, and human cost of innovation, without ever showing him actually creating anything. A unique and compelling portrait of a visionary.

9. Moneyball (2011)
Step up to the plate with Moneyball, a compelling true story that transcends baseball to become a powerful narrative about innovation and challenging the status quo. Brad Pitt delivers a fantastic performance as Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics, who, with limited resources, revolutionizes the sport by applying sabermetrics – an analytical, evidence-based approach to player evaluation.
Directed by Bennett Miller and with a screenplay by Aaron Sorkin and Steven Zaillian, the film is rich with intelligent dialogue and a gripping underdog spirit. It's not just for baseball fans; it's a story about questioning conventional wisdom, finding value where others don't, and the courage to pursue unconventional strategies in the face of skepticism. The film was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, proving its broad appeal beyond the sports genre.

8. Margin Call (2011)
Experience the intense 24 hours leading up to a financial meltdown in Margin Call. This taut, intelligent thriller offers a chillingly realistic look behind the scenes of a major investment bank on the brink of collapse during the 2008 financial crisis. With an incredible ensemble cast including Kevin Spacey, Jeremy Irons, Paul Bettany, Zachary Quinto, and Stanley Tucci, the film is driven by sharp dialogue and a palpable sense of dread.
Writer-director J.C. Chandor, whose father worked on Wall Street, crafted a script that feels incredibly authentic, focusing on the ethical dilemmas and personal costs faced by the individuals involved. There are no flashy explosions or car chases; the tension comes from the quiet, agonizing decisions made in dimly lit offices as characters grapple with the implications of their actions. It's a smart, understated drama that provides a sobering glimpse into the inner workings of high finance during a crisis.

7. The Big Short (2015)
Get ready for a fascinating, often infuriating, deep dive into the 2008 financial crisis with The Big Short. This film masterfully breaks down complex economic concepts, making them accessible and engaging through clever narrative devices and celebrity cameos that explain things directly to the audience. Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt lead an ensemble cast playing real-life outsiders who foresaw the housing market collapse and bet against it.
Adam McKay, primarily known for comedies, proves his versatility as a director, infusing the serious subject matter with dark humor and a sense of urgency. The film won an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for its brilliant translation of Michael Lewis's non-fiction book. It's not just a story about money; it's a look at systemic failures, human folly, and the few who saw the writing on the wall, offering a compelling and often infuriating insight into one of modern history's biggest economic disasters.

6. Wall Street (1987)
Step into the cutthroat world of 1980s Wall Street with this iconic film that defined an era. Wall Street introduces us to Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen), a young, ambitious stockbroker eager to make his mark, and Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas), a ruthless corporate raider whose mantra, 'Greed is good,' became a cultural touchstone. Douglas's electrifying performance earned him an Academy Award, solidifying Gekko as one of cinema's most infamous villains.
Oliver Stone, who co-wrote and directed the film, drew heavily from his own father's experience as a stockbroker, lending an authentic edge to the depiction of the financial world. It's a cautionary tale about the allure of easy money and the moral compromises required to achieve it, exploring themes of ambition, loyalty, and corruption that remain relevant today. The film's influence on popular culture and its sharp critique of unchecked capitalism make it a timeless classic.

5. The Aviator (2004)
Soar into the extraordinary life of Howard Hughes with The Aviator, a visually stunning epic directed by Martin Scorsese. Leonardo DiCaprio delivers a captivating performance as the eccentric and visionary entrepreneur, aviator, and film producer. The film meticulously chronicles Hughes's rise to power, his groundbreaking achievements in aviation and Hollywood, and his eventual descent into reclusive obsession.
Scorsese's masterful direction recreates the glamour and technological marvels of the early 20th century with breathtaking detail, even employing color palettes that evolve to mimic the film stock of different eras. Cate Blanchett's Oscar-winning portrayal of Katharine Hepburn is a standout, capturing the essence of the iconic actress. It's a grand, sweeping biography that offers a deep dive into the mind of a man who pushed boundaries in every field he touched, showcasing both the brilliance and the burden of immense wealth and ambition.

4. The Founder (2016)
Uncover the surprising origins of a fast-food giant in The Founder. Michael Keaton delivers a compelling performance as Ray Kroc, a struggling milkshake machine salesman who sees immense potential in the McDonald brothers' innovative restaurant concept. This film is a fascinating, often unsettling, look at ambition, vision, and the cutthroat nature of business. It delves into how Kroc transformed a small, efficient burger stand into a global empire, but also explores the moral compromises and shrewd tactics employed along the way. Keaton perfectly captures Kroc's relentless drive and complex character, making you question where the line between genius and ruthless ambition truly lies. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the darker side of entrepreneurial success.

3. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Prepare to be inspired by The Pursuit of Happyness, a deeply moving and powerful story of resilience and determination. Will Smith delivers one of his most acclaimed performances as Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman and single father who faces homelessness while striving to build a better life for his son. His genuine portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination, and his real-life son, Jaden Smith, plays his on-screen son, adding an incredible layer of authenticity to their bond.
This film is a raw and honest look at the American Dream, showing the immense challenges and personal sacrifices required to achieve it. It's a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity, no matter how daunting. Gabriele Muccino's direction keeps the narrative grounded and emotionally resonant, making you root for Chris every step of the way. It's a truly uplifting experience that reminds us that with enough grit and perseverance, anything is possible.

2. The Social Network (2010)
Dive into the origins of a digital empire with The Social Network! This film isn't just about Facebook; it's a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the birth of a cultural phenomenon. Jesse Eisenberg delivers an incredibly nuanced performance as Mark Zuckerberg, capturing his complex genius and social awkwardness with uncanny precision.
What makes this movie truly stand out is Aaron Sorkin's razor-sharp script, which is a rapid-fire dialogue masterpiece, paired perfectly with David Fincher's sleek, precise direction. The non-linear narrative keeps you on the edge of your seat, weaving together multiple perspectives of the lawsuits that shaped Facebook's early days. And let's not forget the haunting, atmospheric score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, which perfectly underscores the film's themes of isolation and innovation. It's a fascinating look at how a seemingly simple idea transformed the world, and the personal cost of unprecedented success.

1. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Step into the exhilarating, chaotic world of Jordan Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street! This film is a wild, no-holds-barred ride through the excesses of the 1990s stock market. Leonardo DiCaprio delivers a tour-de-force performance, utterly embodying Belfort's charisma, ambition, and eventual downfall. It's a masterclass in acting that earned him an Oscar nomination and solidified his collaboration with director Martin Scorsese, their fifth film together!
Beyond the outrageous parties and lavish lifestyles, the movie offers a scathing, darkly comedic look at greed and corruption. Scorsese's direction is relentless, pulling you into the frantic pace of Belfort's life, and the script, adapted by Terence Winter from Belfort's own memoir, crackles with sharp dialogue and unforgettable scenes. Did you know the famous chest-thumping chant was actually improvised by Matthew McConaughey, based on a warm-up ritual he does before acting? It's these little details that make the film so captivating and utterly unique. Prepare for an unforgettable cinematic experience that will leave you both shocked and entertained!
